Hemorrhoids Home Remedy

By: Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, Ph.D, ND, DACBN
updated on 06/06/2006 at 04:52PM

Hemorrhoids, although common, are an annoying, painful, and embarrassing ailment. They are swollen veins in the anal area that occur when too much strain is placed on the pelvis and rectum. The strain can be caused by a number of factors such as constipation, pregnancy, or prolonged periods of sitting or standing. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include pain, bleeding, irritation, and itching. And although they can be a troublesome disorder, they can usually be treated at home with a little care and some simple lifestyle changes.

Self-Care of Hemorrhoids

The pain, itching, and discomfort of hemorrhoids may seem unbearable at times. However, there are many things that you can do to alleviate some of these symptoms. The most important way to care for hemorrhoids is to avoid the strain and stress that can further irritate the sensitive hemorrhoidal tissue. Poor diet, lack of exercise, and physical stress all increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids or aggravating existing hemorrhoids.

Constipation and diarrhea are common causes of hemorrhoids. Hard, dry stools associated with constipation or soft explosive stools associated with diarrhea can both place increased amounts of pressure on the anal area. Hemorrhoids are caused or aggravated by the strain and irritation of these conditions. So improving your diet will improve digestion and reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids Home Remedies

Increase water and fiber consumption to soften stools, hydrate the body, and reduce strain during bowel movements. But be careful when adding fiber to the diet that you do it gradually. Too much fiber can worsen diarrhea and cause painful gas and bloating. It's also important to eat regular meals throughout the day. Eating regularly promotes healthy bowel functioning.
A warm sitz bath can also help hemorrhoid sufferers. The warmth and moisture associated with a sitz bath can alleviate the pain and itching of hemorrhoids. Submerse the rectal area in hot water, either in a regular bath tub or in a specially purchased "sitz bath" that can be affixed to the toilet. Make the water hotter than your usual bath water and be sure to sit in enough to cover the affected area. Sit in the bath for twenty to thirty minutes, two to three times a day.
Try to lie down on you side several times a day. Watch TV, read, and rest with your family in this position to alleviate pressure on the rectal area that can aggravate hemorrhoids. Anal hygiene is also important as debris can irritate hemorrhoids. Clean the anal area with a warm, wet washcloth or a baby wipe, always remembering to wash from front to back.
There are many conventional and herbal preparations that can be used as home remedies for the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids. Conventional medications include anesthetics, vasoconstrictors, astringents, and protectants. Herbal remedies include aloe vera, bayberry, comfrey root, elderberry, mullein, lady's mantle, horse chestnut, witch hazel, buckthorn bark, collinsonia root, parsley, and red grape vine leaves. Flaxseed oil, fiber supplements, and certain enemas can be used to soften stools and relieve strain on the rectal area. Oxy-Powder is the best product for constipation and colon cleansing.

What Not To Do

Stay away from fats, animal products, coffee, alcohol, and hot spices that can hinder healthy digestive functioning. Red meat and high protein diets can also be hard on the lower digestive tract. Avoid harsh laxatives. These products cause unnecessary during bowel movements that can further irritate hemorrhoids. They can also become habit-forming, creating a cycle of constipation-diarrhea-constipation.

Avoid using rough, dry toilet paper, or toilet paper that contains perfumes or dyes as this can irritate the sensitive tissues. And do not use aspirin or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen as they can cause hemorrhoids to bleed more. Use pain relievers that contain acetaminophen such as Tylenol, Datril, Valadol and other products.

When should I see a doctor?

Although most hemorrhoids can be treated at home, there are times when hemorrhoids are particularly troublesome or persistent. In these instances, medical intervention may be necessary. See your health care provider if rectal bleeding is present as this symptom can also be associated with other, more serious disorders, such as colon cancer, rectal cancer, and Crohn's disease. Also, have your doctor evaluate hemorrhoids that are accompanied by a fever, or do not go away after a week of home treatment.

Medical Procedures Used to Treat Hemorrhoids

These methods can be used for hemorrhoids that do not respond well to hemorrhoid home remedies.

Rubber band ligation: A rubber band placed around the base of the hemorrhoid will cut off circulation and cause the hemorrhoid to wither away. This method is useful for small internal hemorrhoids.
Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected around the base of the hemorrhoid to shrink the swollen blood vessel.
Infrared Photocoagulation: This procedure uses an intense beam of infrared light to burn and destroy hemorrhoidal tissue.
Hemorrhoidectomy: This surgical procedure completely removes severe hemorrhoids.