Millions of people are affected by hemorrhoids every year. It is not the most popular topic to discuss, but information is an important part of finding relief. Try some of the practical advice in the article below to treat the painful symptoms of hemorrhoids.
If you have hemorrhoids, you should avoid using products that contain dyes, oils and fragrance as they may exacerbate your condition. These products will sting and make the swelling and itching even worse.
Ice Pack
To get relief from hemorrhoids, apply ice to the affected area. It can be very painful to have hemorrhoids. An ice pack can reduce both pain and swelling. Every 10 minutes or so, switch the cold compress with a warm, moist heat source. Alternating between an ice pack and a warm bath will relieve your inflammation and pain to make you feel more comfortable.
You should consider trying several available home remedies prior to paying a great deal for commercial treatments. Soaking in a warm tub for 15 minutes following a bowel movement can help to relax the area. Try to avoid scratching your hemorrhoids. Soothe them with a homeopathic application of witch hazel instead. Drink at least eight cups of water each day, and eat plenty of fiber. This will help refrain you from over straining during your bowel movement.s
Not scratching your irritated hemorrhoids is a difficult feat of determination! It can be hard to not scratch them, but if you do, you can further irritate them. If they get opened for any reason, they will be far more painful and susceptible to bacterial infection.
Do not use laxatives if you are constipated and have hemorrhoids. Laxatives are meant to be a temporary solution to constipation, not hemorrhoids. If you have problems with bowel movements that persist, change your diet. Make it easier to keep steady and regular movements!
Consume fiber-rich foods, and drink plenty of water in order to soften feces. Because hemorrhoids are often caused by straining, it may be wise to get your stool softer. Fruits like watermelon, grapes and papaya are great for softening and moving your stool. Fiber-rich vegetables, such as okra and cabbage, can also be very beneficial. Drink enough water during the day to boost the effects.
Fiber Foods
Try adding more high fiber foods to your diet. More fiber equates to softer stools. Stool softness is important for ease of elimination, and will greatly reduce any pain or discomfort. You can keep your stool softer by eating plenty of high fiber foods, such as fruit or by taking fiber supplements.
Don't consume spicy foods or caffeine. They can inflame the bowel, bringing on hemorrhoids. In fact, eating spicy foods can inflame hemorrhoids to a point of painful burning, so steer clear of them if you don't want to spend all your time in the bathroom.
Even if it is still embarrassing to talk about, the helpful information in the article above should help make dealing with your hemorrhoids a little easier. Apply what you have learned for a life free of hemorrhoids.