Some Simple Remedies For Getting Relief From Hemorrhoid At Home

Hemorrhoid is a condition in which the veins in and around the patient’s anus and lower rectum swell. This causes patient discomfort and pain when they sit or pass stool. This condition is also called piles and can be internal or external, i.e. inside the rectum or outside it and near the skin. About 75 percent of American adults suffer from it but usually recover after a few weeks. Many times, piles are so mild that they go unnoticed but some cases can be severe if they last longer than a few weeks or cause bleeding when passing stool and require medical attention. In milder cases where discomfort and pain are felt but no bleeding is seen, here’s how to relieve hemorrhoid pain:

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is an herb native to North America that has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling effectively. This is why it’s often the main ingredient of some of the best hemorrhoid wipes and creams. It is also available in soaps and as an essential oil. Witch hazel can be applied directly to the piles for relief. Don’t add alcohol to the witch hazel solution because alcohol dries out fast and irritates the swollen veins. It can also reduce the itching associated with the condition.

Warm Bath

Sitting in a tub of warm water after every passing stool can relieve the swelling and reduce the pain. You can also add some Epsom salt to the bath for more relief but don’t add apple cider vinegar as it might irritate the piles. It’s recommended that you sit in enough water to cover your legs for twenty minutes for maximum relief. Also, don’t use scented soap because the perfume present irritates the inflamed veins.

Ice Packs

Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the anus can relieve the pain, especially if the piles are large. This works because cold temperatures contract the swollen tissues giving you some relief. But don’t apply an ice pack or any frozen object to your piles directly, wrap the cold compress with a cloth before application. A few times daily should do the trick.

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera has been traditionally used for treating piles since ages due to its supposed anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the swelling. It can also reduce the itching. The herb is used to create a gel and applied to the skin close to the anus and rectum. Only pure aloe vera gel should be used when treating hemorrhoids. Also, check if you are allergic to this herb by applying it on a small part of your forearm, preferably the size of a dime. Wait for two days, if you see some reaction, don’t use the gel.

Hemorrhoid Wipes

Using dry toilet tissue directly on the anus can irritate the inflamed veins, special wipes meant for piles can keep the area clean without irritating it. In fact, these wipes have witch hazel or aloe vera which have anti-inflammatory properties that relieve the pain and reduce the swelling. Avoid wipes with irritants like alcohol, perfume or other chemicals.

Over-the-counter Ointments

There are many ointments available over the counter that can reduce the pain and swelling, and heal the piles faster. If the medicine contains hydrocortisone, don’t use it for more than a week.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that nourishes dry skin and reduces the itching. It can also reduce the swelling.

Loose Cotton Clothes

Tight polyester clothes create pressure on your swollen veins and irritate them. Wearing loose cotton clothes until your piles are cured will reduce the discomfort considerably. Cotton underwear prevents moisture from building up around the groin and keeps the anus dry and clean preventing irritation. It’s also important to avoid fabric softeners and perfumed detergents when washing your clothes.

This is how to relieve hemorrhoid pain. If the symptoms persist after a week of home care or you notice some bleeding after passing stool, see a doctor immediately.