According to the Mayo Clinic, hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum that can result from pressure. Hemorrhoids typically occur from straining while having a bowel movement, or can be a side effect of pregnancy. Hemorrhoids can be relieved with simple remedies and at- home treatments. More severe hemorrhoids that result in persistent pain and bleeding, however, may need to be treated with a minimally invasive procedure performed by a doctor.
Sitz Bath
A sitz bath is a soothing remedy for the relief of pain and discomfort that occurs with hemorrhoids. Filling a small basin or bath tub with a few inches of warm water and soaking (with your knees elevated) will help blood flow freely to the area as the warm water eases itching and pain. This treatment can be used often and followed up with an application of aloe vera.
Aloe Vera
According to the National Center for Complimentary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM), aloe vera has been used for thousands of years. Aloe vera is still used today and is widely known for its effectiveness at treating skin wounds, relieving sunburn, and is a common ingredient in various lotions, ointments and skin care products. To aid with itchy hemorrhoids, apply the gel, which can be extracted from the leaves of the plant, to the external affected area. Some toilet paper products may also contain aloe vera to sooth a sore bottom.
Regularity
Bowel movements can be painful when hemorrhoids are present. It may be tempting to avoid relieving your bowels; however, this can lead to constipation. According to the Mayo Clinic, delaying a bowel movement causes water to be absorbed from the stool, leading to hardened stools, which may cause more pain and problems. Drink plenty of fluids, eat high fiber foods and get plenty of exercise to avoid constipation, which may exacerbate hemorrhoids and cause more itching and inflammation.
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