Having hemorrhoids can be an annoying and frustrating problem to have to deal with. It can also be painful. Lucky for you, there are several methods you can use to make yourself more comfortable at home. Check out the following list for easy methods you can quickly implement.
Here are ten of the best home remedies for your hemorrhoids:
If you suffer from this problem, then you know how much you will welcome some relief. These home remedies can provide at least temporary soothing. If your condition persists, please reach out to your doctor for advice.
1. Sitz Baths
Sitz baths are very relaxing and can be done multiple times per day if you are able and have the space for it. A sitz bath is a type of bowl that can fit either on your toilet or where ever else is comfortable. You fill it with warm water and let your bottom soak for about ten or fifteen minutes. This is especially soothing right after a bowel movement and is one of the most recommended treatment options for hemorrhoids.
2. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a product many women use after they deliver a baby, and for a good reason. It can help soothe an irritated area and help reduce inflammation and pain. It can also help decrease any associated itching. You can apply it directly to the hemorrhoids with a cotton ball or similar object. It’s important to note that if your symptoms worsen, you may want to skip this option or find an alternate way of applying it.
3. Psyllium Husk
Psyllium husk will not help treat your issue directly, but it can help ease the symptoms. This is a powder found at your local pharmacy that you can stir into a glass of water or other liquid. It will act as a stool softener and decrease the straining you have with your next bowel movement. This can help stop current issues from worsening and prevent new ones from forming.
4. Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is well-known for its anti-inflammatory properties when treating other skin issues like sunburns. The same applies to things like hemorrhoids. You will want to ensure the quality and purity of your product before using it because any additional ingredients could cause further irritation.
5. Epsom Salts with Glycerin
Mix two tablespoons of Epsom salts with two tablespoons of glycerin to make a paste. Spread this on gauze and apply it to the affected area to relieve symptoms. A single application should last for approximately four to six hours. This can help decrease the amount of inflammation you have and bring your pain down to a tolerable level.
6. Water Intake
Water intake is another critical aspect in treating and preventing hemorrhoids. It will help your body handle waste products more efficiently and prevent constipation. Try to aim for 64 ounces daily, but this amount can vary depending on body size, location, and other factors.
7. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is something you can buy in a variety of places. It is most known for its moisturizing effects, which can be helpful for treatment. This could also decrease the amount of irritation you have as well as reduce the urge to scratch.
8. Ice Packs
Ice packs can help treat hemorrhoids by numbing the areas that are affected. This can help reduce pain and itching, as well as any inflammation. You must ensure you wrap your ice pack in a towel or t-shirt before using it to prevent damage to your healthy tissues.
9. Over the Counter Creams
There are several topical creams that you can pick up at the local pharmacy that will work to provide you with relief. Often these provide hemorrhoid treatment with a numbing agent included in the cream, temporarily eliminating the area’s sensation. You can also contact your doctor for a recommendation on pain-relieving medication.
10. Increased Fiber
Another very common hemorrhoid treatment is increased fiber in your diet. You can accomplish this using beans, pears, or avocados. The fiber will help your bowel movements become easier and quicker, preventing you from straining the toilet. This can prevent many issues from occurring.
Final Thoughts on Trying These Ten Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
As you can see, there are many ways to treat this condition from home. Many compounds work to reduce swelling or inflammation, or they can help decrease the amount of pain or irritation at the site. Lastly, there are lifestyle changes you can make, like drinking more water or increasing the amount of fiber in your diet.