Hemorrhoids commonly known as piles are enlarged, swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus.
These veins bulge and get irritated, especially when the patient defecates, and cause bleeding.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids may include anal pain/discomfort, itching/irritation, rectal bleeding, leakage of feces, and swelling or lump near the anus.
Hemorrhoids usually occur when the veins around your anus or in your rectum become inflamed and swollen. The veins that form hemorrhoids stretch and enlarge when they’re exposed to unusual pressure that occurs from chronic constipation or diarrhea, when you sit on the toilet for too long, and from frequently lifting heavy objects. It is also common for women to get hemorrhoids when they’re pregnant.
Although hemorrhoids, often go away on their own without treatment, they can also cause significant pain and discomfort if left untreated.
There are several home remedies for hemorrhoids to treat or reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
Here are 9 of them.
1. Aloe-Vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help heal wounds. It also reduces irritation, burning, itching, and swelling. Aloe vera may provide relief from the burning, itching, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids when applied to the anus.
The aloe vera can be refrigerated and applied cold to provide more relief. It is advised to use pure aloe vera as those that contain additives and preservatives can make symptoms worse.
2. Warm sitz baths
Warm sitz baths are known to be effective in treating hemorrhoids.
Sitting in a tub of warm water that is filled just enough to cover your legs and buttocks will help to ease the swelling and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
Alternately, sitz baths may be performed in a small plastic tub that fits over a toilet seat. The temperature of the water should be lukewarm, as high temperatures can cause more harm than relief. For optimal results, sitz baths should be taken for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after a bowel movement.
You may also choose to add other ingredients, such as Epsom salt, essential oil, or baking soda, to the bath in order to help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms even further.
3. Witch Hazel
Natural witch hazel is an astringent, which is a substance that causes tissue to shrink. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is known to reduce bruising.
Adding a small amount of pure witch hazel to a cotton ball and dabbing it onto hemorrhoid may provide relief from many symptoms.
Over-the-counter wipes or creams with witch hazel can also help soothe pain and itch with no side effects.
4. Essential oils
Essential oils like tea tree oil are overlooked as natural home remedies for hemorrhoids. The anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils shrinks the swollen veins and, thus, reduces the swelling and pain of hemorrhoids.
Furthermore, they provide needed support for weakened veins, which may prevent the reoccurrence of hemorrhoids. Essential oils may also provide useful hormones, vitamins, and nutrients.
To use, mix 2 drops of tea tree oil in 1 teaspoon of castor oil, transfer the mixture to a cotton ball, and apply it to the affected area. You may repeat the process twice a week.
5. Ice packs
Applying ice packs to angry hemorrhoids can definitely be effective at relieving pain and inflammation. In addition to reducing swelling, cold temperatures also have a numbing effect, which helps to temporarily decrease pain. You should always be sure to wrap the ice in a small towel, as applying ice directly to the skin can cause damage and add to the irritation of hemorrhoids.
Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at least 3 times per day. For maximum effect, use this treatment after a warm sitz bath, as the sitz bath dilates the veins in the rectum, and anus and ice packs contract them.
6. Coconut oil
Coconut oil may also help with hemorrhoid symptoms. Applying coconut oil may reduce irritation and swelling, and it may also help reduce the urge to itch the affected area.
Apply coconut oil to a cotton ball and apply it directly to hemorrhoids for 5 to 10 minutes several times per day.
7. Drink lots of fluids
most anal problems such as hemorrhoids are caused by a lack of liquids in the diet.
Drinking plenty of liquid throughout the day keeps the stool soft and manageable as it works its way through the intestines. The result is a much softer stool that takes less energy to pass and causes less irritation to the hemorrhoids.
8. Wear appropriate clothing
It is advised to wear loose-fitting, breathable, cotton clothing, and underwear. This can help prevent the area surrounding the hemorrhoids from becoming irritated by excess sweat, and help reduces symptoms.
9. Fiber-rich diet
A high-fiber diet softens the stools, prevents constipation, and reduces pain, irritation, and discomfort while defecating. A fiber-rich diet also helps maintain digestive health. Fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber.
N.B: If the hemorrhoids don’t improve or the symptoms worsen, it is advised to consult a doctor to seek medical treatment.
