According to GiCare.com, hemorrhoids are one of the most common disorders. They can be chronic but are rarely serious. The pain associated with the inflamed vein in and around the anus can be excruciating and even debilitating. Common causes of hemorrhoids include poor diet, constipation, diarrhea, excess weight and pregnancy. Some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids include pain, swelling, itching and bleeding. There are many over-the-counter remedies and home practices that can help relieve the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Medical intervention is rarely needed, but may be necessary when too much blood is passed.
Step 1
Run a warm bath and pour in a generous amount of Epsom Salts. You will only need 2 or 3 inches of water to soak in. This is often called a "sitz" bath. Soak for 20 to 30 minutes. Soak in the bath after each bowel movement and whenever the hemorrhoids are painful. The Epsom Salts can help cleanse the area, as well as heal the open tissue causing the hemorrhoid to bleed.
Step 2
Dry the area thoroughly after a bath. Pat the area with a towel instead of rubbing it dry. Wipe the area with a commercial hemorrhoid wipe or witch hazel poured onto a cotton ball. Witch hazel is a common ingredient in commercial hemorrhoid treatment products. Apply the witch hazel after every bowel movement or up to four times per day. The solution will help reduce swelling and inflammation as well as help in minimizing the itching. Take a pain reliever or anti-inflammatory medicine.
Step 3
Apply an over-the-counter hemorrhoid or hydrocortisone cream to the anal area. Commercial products come with a special tool that can be filled with cream and inserted into the anus to deliver the medication to hemorrhoids that are inside the rectum. You can also place the cream onto your finger and insert it about an inch into the rectum. Some hemorrhoids are found inside the rectum and make their way to the exterior rectal area during a bowel movement or straining. Repeat the medication application up to four times daily or as described on the product label.
Step 4
Apply an ice pack to the rectal area to reduce inflammation and pain. This can be repeated as often as necessary.
Step 5
Increase your fiber and fluid intake. Constipation and diarrhea can be both causes and irritants of hemorrhoids. Keeping hydrated can soften your stools, making them easier to pass. Watch for blood in the stool to increase. If blood appears to be coming from the anus it may be due to skin irritation. If there is blood within the feces it can be a sign of a more serious condition. Your doctor needs to be contacted when the bleeding does not resolve itself within 24 to 36 hours or if there is mucus in the stool as well.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise can help the bowels function better, allowing you to pass stools with less effort.
Things You'll Need
- Epsom salts
- Over-the-counter hemorrhoid wipes or
- Witch hazel
- Cotton balls
- Pain reliever or anti-inflammatory
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream
- Ice pack
