Hemorrhoids are quite common in today's society, especially among pregnant women. The cause of hemorrhoids are due to an increased burden on the veins in the rectal area. Most people don't discuss the fact that they have them. After reading this article, you will understand why hemorrhoids happen and what you can do to alleviate and prevent them.
You can prevent hemorrhoid pain from getting worse, by eating more foods rich in fiber. For example, you can enjoy healthy, high-fiber foods like apples, dark leafy greens, whole grains and even oatmeal. A diet high in fiber will improve bowel motility, which means you're less likely to suffer the kind of strain that can cause hemorrhoids.
Witch Hazel
Use witch hazel for relieving hemorrhoid discomfort and pain. It has astringent qualities able to reduce the size of, and cut blood flow to the hemorrhoid, prompting healing to begin. Put the witch hazel on a cotton ball, applying it to the affected area for about 5 minutes. You can also put it in a sitz bath.
Consider carrying a small seat cushion with you suffer from hemorrhoids. You may not be comfortable using it at your workplace or in public, but while driving or sitting down at home, it can alleviate the pressure on the area and reduce pain.
Try to abstain from lifting anything heavy if you want to avoid irritating, existing hemorrhoids and causing new ones to erupt. The strain of lifting heavy objects is similar to the strain required to force feces out of the body. If you get hemorrhoids regularly, avoid heavy lifting.
While the cause is most likely hemorrhoids, you should always consult with your doctor. Rectal bleeding or blood in your stool could also be warning signs of something far more severe, like cancer. Put your mind at ease by having the problem diagnosed. If you have hemorrhoids, doctors can suggest the best treatments.
It may come as a surprise that warm water can help you get rid of and help your hemorrhoids. Soak the area in a warm bath for at least ten minutes per day, then use a cold towel to press against the swelling gently. You might consider investing in a toilet bath from your local pharmacy.
Include plenty of high-fiber foods in your diet. Fiber helps soften your stool. Stool softness is important for ease of elimination, and will greatly reduce any pain or discomfort. Including raw fruits and vegetables in your daily diet will serve you well, as will taking a daily fiber supplement.
You should make an effort to keep your body hydrated at all times. If your body gets dehydrated, it will draw water from your intestines and stools. Doing this makes your stool harder, which makes bowel movements very painful. If you drink lots of water each day, you'll remain well-hydrated, and your stool will remain soft.
Spicy Foods
If you consume large amounts of caffeine and spicy foods, you should decrease or eliminate them from your diet. Both of these effects can aggravate your symptoms. Even when you don't have hemorrhoids, these foods can cause a burning irritation in the intestinal lining. It is best to eliminate spicy foods.
Hemorrhoids are a common ailment, especially when situations stress certain areas of the body. A hemorrhoid usually develops because of strain or pressure on the anus. By using what you have learned in this article, you can have a good starting point for treating your hemorrhoids. Hopefully, you will see a the frequency of hemorrhoid flare-ups decrease, and be able to get back to your normal self.