How To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are abnormally swollen veins around the anal area or just inside the rectum. When one of these veins swells it can become irritated with surrounding membranes itching, burning or even bleeding at some point. Hemorrhoids can be very painful however they can also go unnoticed for years without a single symptom.
There are a number of theories as to why people get hemorrhoids, for instance an inadequate amount of fiber in the diet or prolonged times spent sitting on the toilet due to chronic constipation or diarrhea. Pregnancy and giving birth can both cause significant strain on the pelvis area which can lead to enlarged hemorrhoids, as can standing or sitting for prolonged periods of time. Another possibility is the pulling force that a hard stool passing through the anal canal has on the hemorrhoid cushions as they are dragged downward.
Internal hemorrhoids go unnoticed more than external because they form inside the rectum. They are however, the ones that cause the internal pressure feelings where it is uncomfortable to sit, stand or even lay down at times. This occurs because as the vessel swells it puts pressure on the tissue surrounding it. If they bleed you may see it on the eliminated stool.
External hemorrhoids on the other hand are more easily detected because they are on the outside of the anus. They too, can cause itching, burning and discomfort. They are also embarrassing for some people who choose to suffer rather discuss the problem when actually by age 50 more than half the adult population has had to deal with them in some way or another. Though hemorrhoids often resolve on their own they too can be very painful until they do.
Symptoms of hemorrhoids can include bright red blood which frightens many people but is so only because the area is supplied by the arteries filled with rich oxygenated blood. The signs of blood are not generally accompanied by pain. Aside from pain and discomfort there may be swelling around the anal opening, swollen protrusions or fecal leakage.
There are several goals in getting rid of hemorrhoids. The first, of course is to alleviate the bothersome symptoms while another would be to shrink the hemorrhoid itself. Over the counter pain medications can be helpful for treating hemorrhoid pain with choices such as Aleve offering an anti-inflammatory that can relieve pressure discomfort. For itching and burning topical creams work well as do suppositories. Some well known products are Preparation H, Hemorid, Tronolane and Tucks. All can be good for relieving the irritation to skin tissue as well and will aid in immediate relief.
If diarrhea or constipation are at the core of hemorrhoids finding a remedy for one often eliminates the other condition as well. For instance, adding fiber is not only a good way to get rid of hemorrhoids but it will when coupled with water help the intestines to form either firmer or looser stools as they pass through to elimination.
One of the best tips on how to get rid of hemorrhoids is to change eating habits by adding fiber to the diet. Incorporating fruits and vegetables, beans, whole grains, seeds and nuts will go a long way in changing the whole make up of the large intestines.
If any of these foods are new to you-such as a fruit you have never tried or vegetables in their raw state rather than from a can, you might go slowly when trying them. They may cause gas or bloating which will only add to your discomfort. If it is hard for you eat fruit or vegetables try one of the stood bulkers or fiber supplements on the market today. Take as directed (the body needs about 20-30 grams per day) and within a few days you will begin to notice changes.
If you stand or sit for long periods of time throughout the week due to your job get up every two hours or so to walk around. Several times a week make an effort to get in some form of exercise such as low impact aerobics or a brisk walk 10-20 minutes each day. This will help address such problems as circulation which often accompanies many types of hemorrhoids. It will help get oxygen and nutrients to the damaged areas for a quicker recovery and for aiding the immune system in keeping the body healthy.
Increasing water consumption is essential. It is necessary for good circulation, for keeping the body hydrated and the skin subtlety. It will combine with the fiber and help promote good gastro intestinal workings. Also decrease the amount of coffee, tea and alcohol that you consume while trying to get rid of hemorrhoids as they can actually dehydrate the body.
Bioflavonoids from berries, cherries and brightly colored vegetables and fruits are nutrients that stimulate circulation which is one of the root causes of the disorder. Aside from aiding in circulation bioflavonoids also increase vascular tone strengthening the artery, blood vessel and capillary walls.
These foods are excellent choices in getting rid of hemorrhoids especially when paired with the vein narrowing qualities of the herb butcher’s broom as both can relieve the discomfort of circulation problems. Horse Chestnut extract can aid in increasing the tone as well as strength of veins. Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties aid tissue surrounding hemorrhoids.
There are many good herbal remedies as well as lone herbs or botanicals that can help to prevent hemorrhoids along with ones that will help in treatment and those that promote healing. Neem has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties as well as being a pain-reliever. It helps by promoting the elimination of waste, thus avoiding constipation. It can be applied topically for a soothing comfort and to helps control itching and/or bleeding.
Barberry has long been used as a blood purifier. Another wonderful ability of this plant is the way it is able to aid in the promotion of healthy intestinal microbial balance (or keeping the balance between the bacteria that are normally present). This all works toward healthy stool elimination, less straining and stool consistency.