Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the anus that can be brought on by straining during bowel movements, being overweight or pregnant, or a combination of these and other factors. Although no one enjoys dealing with them, hemorrhoids affect over 75% of adults at some point in their lives.
Once hemorrhoids have been diagnosed, the condition is usually manageable with a combination of over-the-counter medicine and a change in lifestyle. Hemorrhoid sufferers, here are six home treatments you might try.
SITZ BATH
To take a sitz bath, you simply fill a special toilet bowl liner with hot water and a sitz bath powder. To utilize it, you use it in the same manner as you would a conventional toilet and sit down. To effectively soak the area and alleviate pain, sitz baths should be used once or twice daily, or after each bowel movement.
PSYLLIUM HUSK
When used as a supplement, psyllium husk can help to reduce constipation. Hemorrhoids that already exist won’t heal, but this should keep them from getting worse. You should avoid taking too many vitamins at once because doing so can cause flatulence and gastrointestinal distress.
EPSOM SALTS & GLYCERIN
This at-home treatment is similar to the Sitz Bath, except it can be administered in a standard bath or on a localized basis with a gauze pad. Combine two tablespoons of Epsom salts with two tablespoons of glycerin, then apply to a gauze pad and hold over hemorrhoid for 15 to 20 minutes. You can do this again in four to six hours if necessary.
FROSTBITING
You can assume that your hemorrhoid is quite enlarged if it is causing you a lot of discomfort. Reducing swelling and alleviating discomfort can be aided by applying a cold compress to the affected area. If you do, cover the compress in a towel or cloth every time you use it and don’t leave it on for more than 15 minutes at a time.
WET WIPES
Don’t use normal toilet paper if you can help it. Hemorrhoid-specific medicated wipes or even plain wet wipes are preferable for wiping the affected area. Make sure the wipes you’re using don’t include any irritants like alcohol or perfume.
DRAPES MADE OF LOOSE COTTON
If you want to keep the area cool, dry, and clean, try switching to cotton apparel and ditching your polyester underwear. The added comfort and relief from less stress on the affected area is a welcome bonus.
MORE INFORMATION
Get a proper diagnosis of your hemorrhoid condition before attempting any home treatment. The signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids are similar to those of other, potentially more dangerous illnesses. The presence of blood in the feces or during wiping is a medical emergency that requires immediate medical attention.
Keep in mind that there’s a chance none of these treatments will help your hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid banding surgery or a hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary to get rid of hemorrhoids for good.