Sufferers of hemorrhoids know that while the condition is embarrassing, it is nothing to laugh about. Hemorrhoids are swollen and irritated veins in your lower anus and lower intestine that can be caused by straining during bowel movements or a pregnant woman's labor. Hemorrhoids can occur internally or externally, and symptoms include pain, bleeding and itching in the anus. About 50 percent of people will have suffered from hemorrhoids by the time they reach age 50, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Diet Changes
Stanford University's Wellsphere recommends a nutrition regimen that's low in salt, because salt can dilate the veins in the anal region. Eating more fiber can also help regulate your digestive system and ease hemorrhoidal symptoms. A diet high in fiber can help make bowel movements softer and minimize the straining that aggravates the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Wellsphere also notes that you should avoid processed foods while suffering from the condition.
Keep the Area Clean
The Mayo Clinic advises daily showering or bathing to keep the anus clean, but advises that soap can irritate the condition. After bathing, dry the anus with a hair dryer rather than rubbing it with a towel. Flushable, moist towelettes or warm baths several times a day can help keep the area clean.
Cold
The Mayo Clinic recommends cold to help ease the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Applying a cold compress about an hour before going to bed can help ease the symptoms, because cold helps shrink the inflamed blood vessels.
Sitz Baths
A sitz bath can help if you are suffering from a lot of discomfort. Fill a bathtub up with enough warm water to lap over your legs, and sit in it for at least 10 minutes. Use only water and be sure to not add salts or bath soaps to the bath. The warm water helps to relieve the pain and itching almost immediately. After the soak, remember to not scrub the anus with a towel; instead, pat the area dry or use a hair dryer.
