Hemorrhoids occur when the veins in and around the rectum become swollen and inflamed. Also known as piles, hemorrhoids can occur from a sedentary lifestyle, a low-fiber diet, pregnancy, constipation or heavy lifting. Nearly half of adults experience symptoms closely associated with hemorrhoids by age 50, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms include irritation, itching and occasional bleeding. A wide variety of treatment methods are available including home remedies and lifestyle changes.
Dietary Changes
Changing dietary habits can decrease a person's risk for hemorrhoids. Limiting the amount of daily fat intake, avoiding deep fried foods and meats and increasing the daily intake of fiber can reduce hemorrhoids. Fiber softens and decreases the bulk of stools; 20 to 35g of fiber is recommended daily, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Fruits, vegetables and whole grains all contain high amounts of fiber.
Hydration is also critical. The Mayo Clinic suggests that drinking six to eight glasses of water daily hydrates the body and also keeps stools from hardening, causing constipation and possible hemorrhoids.
Cool and Warm Treatments
A warm bath will clean and comfort the affected area. The Mayo Clinic suggests soaking in a warm bathtub as often as needed throughout the day to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Soap is not required and may further agitate the hemorrhoids. Using a blow dryer to dry hemorrhoids is recommended to decrease the moisture levels; high moisture may cause further irritation. Apply a cold bag of ice to the area to numb the rectum and hemorrhoids. Cold compresses made of washcloths or napkins dipped in ice water will also aid in relief.
Cleaning the Area
Clean the area after a bowel movement with a moist napkin or toilette. Dry toilet tissue will cause further irritation due to the increased friction. Witch hazel is a natural product that is commonly used to treat hemorrhoids, according to the University of Michigan. Add a small amount to tissue to relieve discomfort when cleaning the rectal area.
Lifestyle Changes
Simple lifestyle changes may prevent hemorrhoids from worsening. In particular, avoid sitting for long periods of time. Truck drivers, office workers and people who sit for long periods of time should walk and stretch their legs every hour to prevent hemorrhoids. Exercise for 30 minutes daily to decrease constipation and pressure on rectal veins and present hemorrhoids. Some people may resist the having a bowel movement to avoid the pain associated with hemorrhoids. A person experiencing hemorrhoids should not wait to have a bowel movement, suggests the Mayo Clinic--the stool may become hard or difficult to eliminate. A person should attempt to have the bowel movement, although undue straining should be avoided. Additionally, do not sit on the toilet for more than five minutes to avoid putting added pressure on the hemorrhoids.
