Hemorrhoids or piles are enlarged veins that can occur both internally or externally in the anus or lower rectum. When the blood vessels are not able to cope with the blood variations caused by pressure in the abdomen it results in the formation of hemorrhoids. There are various reasons that contribute to the formation of a hemorrhoid including pregnancy, ageing, constipation, and excessive usage of enemas. In addition, certain jobs require prolonged standing and sitting, which can contribute to their formation. However, they can be easily traced if blood marks appear on the feces or toilet paper. In worst circumstances, a hemorrhoid can cause irritation and sore requiring immediate treatment. Cases have been reported where people have experienced painful lumps and bleeding. Hemorrhoids Can Be Treated Successfully Home Remedies It needs to be clarified that hemorrhoids can be treated provided the patients are ready to bring the necessary changes in their dietary habits and lifestyle. Softening of feces is a pre-requirement before the treatment can begin. Experts suggest that fruits, green-leafy vegetables and cereals are good fiber supplements. These include cherries, vitamin C rich foods, blackberries, beans, carrots, broccoli and blueberries. Regular exercising and drinking plenty of water is suggested to avoid the occurrence of hemorrhoids. Sitting in a tub of warm water for 10 to 20 minutes helps a person suffering from hemorrhoid a great deal. In case of swelling you can also apply ice packs to get relief from the painful sensation. Conventional Remedies If you do not find any relief from home-based remedies then consult your doctor for advice. Severe hemorrhoid can be treated by conventional surgery. This surgery is termed as hemorrhoidectomy, but is considered a last resort since it leaves permanent or temporary scars. These scars can cause problems in the bowel movements later on. The treatment varies according to the degree of hemorrhoid from person to person. Experts suggest that acupuncture, aromatherapy, homeopathy and acupressure also serve as effective treatments in removing hemorrhoids. However, there is another option of coagulation therapies that require electricity, laser or infrared light that have the ability to burn the hemorrhoids and destroy them in the process completely. A dietician can recommend taking stool softeners like docusate or mineral oils rich in psyllium or methylcellulose. You can also apply a petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel in and around the affected area. A cool cotton pad soaked in witch hazel can be equally effective in some cases. Sitting for long hours at a stretch should be avoided at all costs and, if possible, lying down or standing up at regular intervals is highly recommended. Prognosis can prove to be really helpful if hemorrhoids are caused by pregnancy. After childbirth, women experience great relief and hemorrhoids can be dealt with great ease. It is advisable to get in touch with an expert if you feel that all the possible home-based remedies have been tried, tested and failed. For people above 40 years of age hemorrhoids can cause a serious problem since they are prone to the risk of rectal bleeding from colorectal cancer and other related digestion disorders. More often than not hemorrhoids can be avoided altogether if you avoid regular occurrences of constipation in the initial stages. It is always said that prevention is better than cure. Hemorrhoids can be quite an embarrassing condition to have, since a simple activity like sitting can be quite an awkward exercise to perform in presence of others. Sitting on a hemorrhoid ring also has its embarrassing movements. Ensuring an efficient eliminative system will prevent the occurrence of this condition. |