Hemorrhoids (or piles) are the bulging and dilated veins of the rectum. Straining causes the rectal muscles to lose their support in the veins, and when the veins enlarge, a sac-like protrusion in the rectal canal is next to occur. These protrusions are what internal hemorrhoids are. The protrusion of the dilated veins can also occur around the lining of the rectal area, which is then called external hemorrhoid.
Typically, hemorrhoids can be remedied using natural and medical approaches. These remedies may be temporary only, but they are effective when it comes to alleviating the symptoms of pain, discomfort, itchiness and irritation. However, if your hemorrhoids worsen, surgery may be required. The Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence recommends the following self-care tips to alleviate symptoms of hemorrhoids and prevent flare-ups in the future:
Self-Care Tips
1. Take a sitz bath
A sitz bath is one of the interventions used in managing hemorrhoids at home and in some hospitals as well. A person suffering from hemorrhoids can relieve many of his or her symptoms by having a sitz bath at home. For several times, soak the area of the rectum in warm water in the sitz bath for not more than ten minutes. Taking a warm bath can be relaxing, too.
2. Eat a high fiber diet
One of the primary reasons why hemorrhoids develop is because of the straining when a person is constipated. Constipation can be remedied easily by having a high fiber diet everyday. The fiber in the diet helps the body to pass out stools easier because they make the stools softer. Foods rich in fiber include leafy vegetables, fruits, beans and legumes, whole grain bread and cereals and bran. Eating high fiber foods will not save one from the painful hemorrhoids but also from other diseases such as heart and colon diseases.
3. Drink lots of water
Keeping the body hydrated helps alleviate the straining when using the bathroom. Hydration is a key element in producing soft and easily passed stools. Eight to ten glasses of water everyday should be enough to keep your body well hydrated.
4. Don’t wait.
When you feel the urge to go to the bathroom – go immediately! Putting off bowel movements can worsen constipation, which then aggravates hemorrhoids.
5. Over-the-counter remedies.
Over-the-counter products are available for mild cases of hemorrhoids. These include witch hazel infused pads and soothing creams, like the iconic brand Preparation H and its generic equivalents. If these don’t work, ask one of our doctors about prescription preparations.
Contact the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence Today
For mild cases of hemorrhoids, these self-care tips can offer relief and help alleviate recurring flare-ups. However, if home remedies fail to relieve your hemorrhoids – or if you’re suffering from prolapsed or thrombosed hemorrhoids, recurring hemorrhoids or rectal bleeding, don’t hesitate to seek medical attention. At the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence in Beverly Hills, we offer a number of hemorrhoid treatments including: sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation and hemorrhoidectomy to treat your hemorrhoids. Call (888) 742-2032 or contact us online today to get relief.
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