Millions of people deal with the uncomfortable and often embarrassing issue of hemorrhoids. Are you one among them? Don’t worry! You’re not alone. There are effective ways to manage and treat them. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from understanding what they are to How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids via remedies and treatments.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Imagine tiny cushions of blood vessels in your lower rectum and anus. These are called hemorrhoids. They are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). These swollen veins can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. Understanding the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids can help you choose the best treatment approach.
What Does Hemorrhoids Look Like?
Hemorrhoids can vary in appearance depending on their type and stage. They can look like small bumps or lumps and might be red or purple.
Internal Hemorrhoids
These are located inside the rectum and usually aren’t visible from the outside. They can cause bleeding and discomfort, especially during bowel movements. Often painless, they may lead to bleeding if irritated but do not usually cause noticeable lumps or swelling.
External Hemorrhoids
These develop under the skin around the anus. They appear as lumps or bumps that can be painful, itchy, and tender. They can cause significant discomfort, especially when sitting or during bowel movements, and may sometimes bleed if irritated or scratched.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids: They are
- Straining during bowel movements can put extra pressure on the veins in the rectal area.
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea can strain the rectal area and lead to hemorrhoids.
- Increased pressure on the pelvic veins during pregnancy.
- Obesity can contribute to increased pressure on the veins.
- Frequent heavy lifting can put a strain on the rectal area.
Understanding these causes can help you make lifestyle changes to prevent future issues.
Stages of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids progress through different stages. By knowing these stages, you can guide you in choosing the right treatment.
Stage I: Small, often painless, and do not prolapse (move outside the rectum).
Stage II: Prolapse during bowel movements but return to their original position on their own.
Stage III: Prolapse and need manual repositioning.
Stage IV: Prolapsed and cannot be pushed back inside; often requires medical treatment.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last?
The duration of hemorrhoids varies depending on their severity and the treatment approach. Mild hemorrhoids might improve within a few days, while more severe cases could take weeks to heal. Factors such as your treatment choices, lifestyle changes, and overall health play a role in recovery time.
Do Hemorrhoids Go Away on Their Own?
In many cases, hemorrhoids can improve on their own with lifestyle changes and home treatments. However, if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice. Early treatment can prevent complications and promote quicker recovery.
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids Faster?
Here are some effective ways to manage and treat hemorrhoids:
Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
If you’re looking for natural ways to ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids, here are some effective home remedies you can try:
1. Warm Sitz Baths
Fill the tub with just a few inches of warm water and sit for 15-20 minutes. The warmth soothes the area, reduces swelling, and eases pain.
2. Apply an Ice Pack or Cold Compress
Wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin and apply to the affected area for 10-15 minutes several times a day. This helps reduce swelling and numbs the area, providing relief from pain and itching.
3. Apply Witch Hazel Directly to the Hemorrhoids
Witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling, itching, and irritation. Apply it directly using a cotton ball or pad.
4. Apply Pure Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help relieve irritation and promote healing. Make sure to use a pure product without added fragrances or chemicals to the affected area.
5. Epsom Salt and Glycerin
Mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt with 2 tablespoons of glycerin. Apply the mixture to a gauze pad and place it on the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat every four to six hours. This combination can reduce inflammation and soothe the area.
6. Apply a Small Amount of Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It helps to reduce irritation and keeps the area hydrated, which can prevent further discomfort.
7. Add a Teaspoon of Psyllium Husk to Your Diet
Psyllium is a natural fiber supplement that helps bulk up and soften stools, easing bowel movements and reducing the pressure on hemorrhoids. You can mix psyllium with water or juice and have it daily.
Lifestyle Adjustments to Alleviate Hemorrhoids
Making small changes to your daily routine can significantly ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids and prevent them from worsening. Here are some simple lifestyle adjustments that can help you find relief and support long-term recovery.
1. Increase Your Intake of Fiber-Rich Foods
Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements, reducing the strain that can worsen hemorrhoids. You can also consider a fiber supplement if needed.
2. Drink Plenty of Water throughout the Day
Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day. Staying hydrated helps prevent constipation and softens stools, making them easier to pass without straining.
3. Avoid Strain during Bowel Movements
It’s crucial to avoid straining during bowel movements, as this pressure can exacerbate hemorrhoids. Regular exercise also promotes healthy digestion and circulation, further reducing the risk of hemorrhoid flare-ups.
When to Worry About Hemorrhoids?
Certain signs indicate you should seek medical attention:
- Intense pain that does not improve with over-the-counter treatments.
- Large amounts of blood or persistent bleeding.
- Symptoms that do not improve with home care.
Hemorrhoids Treatments
When it comes to treating hemorrhoids, there are several approaches depending on the severity of the condition. These range from topical treatments that you can apply at home to more invasive procedures performed by a healthcare professional.
Over-the-Counter Topical Treatments
Use over-the-counter creams, ointments, or pads containing ingredients like hydrocortisone or witch hazel. These treatments can provide temporary relief from pain, itching, and swelling. Follow the package instructions for proper use.
1. Hemorrhoid Creams
These creams are specially formulated to reduce swelling, itching, and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. They often contain ingredients like hydrocortisone, a steroid that reduces inflammation, and lidocaine, which numbs the area to relieve pain. They are applied directly to the affected area and provide quick relief from symptoms.
2. Hemorrhoid Ointments
They are similar to creams but tend to be thicker and provide a protective barrier on the skin. They often contain ingredients like petroleum jelly to moisturize and protect the affected area, witch hazel for its soothing properties, and phenylephrine, which constricts blood vessels to reduce swelling. Ointments can be particularly effective for external hemorrhoids, offering relief from itching, burning, and pain.
3. Hemorrhoid Suppositories
They are designed for internal hemorrhoids and are inserted directly into the rectum. They slowly dissolve and deliver medication. Common ingredients include hydrocortisone for anti-inflammatory effects and cocoa butter or mineral oil to ease the passage of stool, which helps prevent further irritation. Suppositories are effective for treating internal hemorrhoids that cause discomfort or bleeding during bowel movements.
4. Hemorrhoid Wipes
Hemorrhoid wipes are pre-moistened with soothing ingredients like witch hazel, aloe vera, and sometimes mild anesthetics. They are used to gently clean the anal area after bowel movements. These wipes are particularly useful for people with external hemorrhoids, as they are softer and less irritating than regular toilet paper.
Pros: Topical treatments are easy to use and widely available over the counter. They can provide quick relief from symptoms and are generally safe for most people.
Cons: While they can alleviate symptoms, topical treatments do not address the underlying causes of hemorrhoids. Prolonged use of steroid-containing creams, for example, can lead to thinning of the skin or other side effects.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
For more persistent or severe hemorrhoids that don’t respond well to topical treatments, minimally invasive procedures may be necessary. These procedures are often performed in a doctor’s office and involve little to no downtime.
1. Rubber Band Ligation
This is one of the most common procedures for treating internal hemorrhoids. During this procedure, a small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid will shrink and eventually fall off within a week or so.
2. Sclerotherapy
This involves injecting a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid, which causes it to shrink. It’s usually used for smaller internal hemorrhoids and can be an effective alternative for those who are not candidates for rubber band ligation.
3. Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
This method uses infrared light to generate heat and scar tissue, which cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. IRC is a quick procedure and is typically used for smaller internal hemorrhoids.
Pros: These procedures are less invasive than surgery and can be done quickly, often without the need for anesthesia. They also tend to have shorter recovery times.
Cons: There may be some discomfort during and after the procedure, and there is a risk of the hemorrhoid returning if lifestyle changes are not made.
Surgical Options
In cases where hemorrhoids are large, severely prolapsed, or causing significant symptoms that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be required. There are a few different surgical options:
1. Hemorrhoidectomy
This is the surgical removal of hemorrhoids and is considered the most effective treatment for severe hemorrhoids. During the procedure, the hemorrhoidal tissue is cut away, and the area is sutured. This procedure can be done under local anesthesia, spinal anesthesia, or general anesthesia.
2. Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy
Also known as stapling, this procedure is used primarily for internal hemorrhoids that have prolapsed. A circular stapling device is used to reposition the hemorrhoid back into the rectum and cut off its blood supply. This procedure is generally less painful than a hemorrhoidectomy and has a quicker recovery time.
3. Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HAL)
This newer technique involves locating and tying off the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. This procedure is less invasive and usually results in less pain and a quicker recovery compared to a hemorrhoidectomy.
Pros: Surgery is usually very effective in removing hemorrhoids and providing long-term relief. It’s often the best option for large or complicated hemorrhoids.
Cons: Surgery comes with the usual risks associated with any surgical procedure, including pain, bleeding, and infection. Recovery time can also be longer, and patients may need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activities during healing.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids from Coming Back?
Preventing hemorrhoids from returning involves making some lifestyle adjustments that promote overall digestive health and reduce strain on the rectal veins. Here are some key tips to help you keep hemorrhoids at bay:
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga are excellent options that are gentle on the body but effective in promoting digestive health.
- After each bowel movement, gently clean the anal area with water or moist wipes. Avoid harsh soaps or scented products that can irritate the skin. Pat the area dry with a soft towel rather than rubbing, which can cause further irritation.
- Choose cotton underwear and loose-fitting clothing to allow the area to breathe and stay dry, reducing the risk of irritation.
- If you have a job or lifestyle that requires long periods of sitting, make it a habit to stand up and move around every 30 minutes to an hour. This helps reduce pressure on the rectal area. Use a cushion or a specially designed “donut” pillow to relieve pressure on the rectum.
Final Words
Dealing with hemorrhoids can be challenging, but with the right approach, you can find relief and prevent future issues. From understanding what hemorrhoids are to exploring effective treatments and lifestyle changes, this guide aims to provide you with comprehensive information on how to get rid of hemorrhoids quickly and manage your condition effectively. By taking proactive steps and staying informed, you can alleviate discomfort and reduce the likelihood of recurrence, helping you maintain a healthier, more comfortable lifestyle.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.
