9 Tips to deal with Hemorrhoids

Most people are embarrassed to even mention that they are suffering from hemorrhoids. It is a stressful condition where one has to deal with pain, itchiness and even bleeding.

They can cause a lot of discomfort and visiting a doctor is best thing you can do when you have it. But there are some tips you can keep in mind with regard to the pain and itching so as to give some relief to your condition.

Here are some tips to deal with hemorrhoids:

• Do not strain

Do not go to the washroom until you really are sure about defecating. Straining will only add to the pain and worsen the condition.

• Hydrotherapy

A sitz or hydrotherapy bath can be very effective in giving symptomatic relief for itchy, inflamed and painful piles. It involves soaking your anal area in a tub with slightly warm water containing potassium permanganate tablets for about 10-15 minutes.

The warm water and salt relieves congestion, improves anal circulation and reduces inflammation.

• Ice pack or cold compress

Ice is the most effective treatment for inflammation and swelling. Lie on your back in a comfortable position and apply on the anal opening for about 10 minutes.

• Eat lots of fiber rich foods

Your diet plays a very important role in preventing the occurrence of piles as well as reducing hemorrhoid pain. A diet rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber is highly recommended for getting relief from piles.

Fiber helps to relieve constipation and avoid straining, which both are major risk factors for developing hemorrhoids. Oatmeal, barley, whole-grain cereals, beans, leafy vegetables like spinach, fenugreek and citrus fruits like oranges are a few fiber-rich sources.

• Fiber supplements

If you do not want to eat ffiber-richfoods you can consider eating fiber supplements that are as effective in treating the persistent symptoms.

• Increase your water intake

Water is good for the body. When you drink less water, your intestinal walls absorb water from your stools to make them hard which in turn causes constipation and straining which leads to piles. You should drink a lot of water so as to maintain stool consistency and preventing constipation and dehydration.

• Avoid laxatives

Laxatives are alright if used once in a while. They soften your stool and stimulate bowel movements. But if used regularly they can disrupt your regular bowel patterns and make your constipation worse.

• Apply petroleum jelly

People suffering from hemorrhoids often spend time straining during their bowel movement. A lubricating agent like petroleum jelly can help you to avoid straining and reduce pain if you use it just before passing a bowel movement

• Consume flavonoid rich foods

Flavonoid rich foods like blackberries, blueberries, cherries and citrus fruits increase the strength in the vein structures, thereby improving circulation around the anus which reduce symptoms of hemmorroids.