At times, blood vessels in the body become inflamed and swollen. The condition may occur in the veins in the rectum and anus, referred to as hemorrhoids or piles, caused by increased pressure on the vessels. The pressure occurs from conditions such as pregnancy, obesity, sitting for an extended time on the toilet, straining during bowel movements and anal intercourse. Aging tissue also weakens, making hemorrhoids common in the elderly. Hemorrhoids--found internally and externally--might cause pain, itching, bleeding and a leakage of stool. Treatment options for hemorrhoids include making lifestyle changes, home remedies, medications and surgery.
Diet
Straining during bowel movements and constipation causes hemorrhoids to form and irritates present hemorrhoids. Keeping stool soft and easy to pass decreases the symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. Increasing fluid intake to at least eight glasses of water each day helps soften the stool. Increasing dietary fiber is an additional way to add bulk to the softened stool, making it easier to pass. Eating fresh fruits, vegetables and whole grains, as well as using a fiber supplement are easy ways to increase fiber intake.
Sitz Bath
Sitting in a shallow tub of warm water helps relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Sitting in the water several times each day--for approximately 10 minutes--works best. A sitz bath fits on the toilet and allows the affected area to soak, without filling a tub of water.
Exercise
Exercising helps increase the movement of stool through the body and prevents constipation. The decrease in straining during bowel movements avoids irritating the inflamed tissue.
Hygiene
Keeping the area dry and clean is important. Pat with a wet washcloth or a towelette after a bowel movement, and allow the area to dry. Avoid using products with a fragrance, because they may irritate the tissue.
Ice Packs
Using ice packs on the affected area helps decrease swelling, states the Mayo Clinic. Using a cold compress several times a day maximizes the relief.
Topical Medications
Creams, pads and suppositories--available over-the-counter--help decrease the itching, pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. Carefully follow the directions on the individual products. As explained by the Mayo Clinic, using these products for longer than seven days may increase the possibility of side effects, such as thinning skin, inflammation and a skin rash.
Oral Medications
Using an over-the-counter pain reliever helps decrease the pain and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids, according to the Mayo Clinic. A product containing ibuprofen also helps decrease the swelling in the anal tissue.
Minimally Invasive Treatments
Several treatment options are available for hemorrhoids not relived by home remedies. These treatments include rubber band ligation, coagulation and sclerotherapy. With rubber band ligation, a physician places rubber bands around the hemorrhoids, cutting off the blood supply. The hemorrhoid falls off in several days. Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to shrink them. Coagulation uses heat or lasers to harden and shrivel the hemorrhoids.
Surgery
Two surgical options exist for individuals suffering from hemorrhoids not relieved with other treatments. These options are the most invasive treatments available and carry the most risk for complications. A hemorrhoidectomy involves surgically removing the hemorrhoids and anal tissue. Stapling uses staples to block the flow of blood to the hemorrhoids, similar to using rubber bands.
