Hemorrhoids commonly known as piles are enlarged and swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum and anus.
These veins bulge and become irritated, especially when the patient defecates, causing bleeding.
Common symptoms of hemorrhoids can include anal pain / discomfort, itching / irritation, rectal bleeding, leaking stool, and a swelling or lump near the anus.
Hemorrhoids generally occur when the veins around your anus or in your rectum become inflamed and swollen. The veins that form hemorrhoids stretch and enlarge when exposed to unusual pressure from chronic constipation or diarrhea, sitting on the toilet for too long, and lifting heavy objects frequently. It is also common for women to get hemorrhoids during pregnancy.
Although hemorrhoids often go away on their own without treatment, they can also cause significant pain and discomfort if left untreated.
There are several home remedies for hemorrhoids to treat or reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
Here are 9 of them.
1. Aloe-Vera
Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help wound healing. It also reduces irritation, burning, itching, and swelling. Aloe vera can relieve burning, itching, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids when applied to the anus.
Aloe vera can be refrigerated and applied cold to provide more relief. It is advisable to use pure aloe vera, since those that contain additives and preservatives can worsen the symptoms.
2. Warm sitz baths
Warm sitz baths are known to be effective in treating hemorrhoids.
Sitting in a tub of warm water that is full enough to cover your legs and buttocks will help relieve swelling and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
Alternatively, sitz baths can be done in a small plastic tub that sits over the toilet seat. The water temperature should be lukewarm, as high temperatures can cause more harm than relief. For best results, sitz baths should be taken for 15-20 minutes several times a day, especially after a bowel movement.
You can also choose to add other ingredients, such as Epsom salt, essential oil, or baking soda, to the bath to help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms even further.
3. Witch Hazel
Natural witch hazel is an astringent, which is a substance that makes tissues shrink. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and is known to reduce bruising.
Adding a small amount of pure witch hazel to a cotton ball and rubbing the hemorrhoid can alleviate many symptoms.
Over-the-counter witch hazel wipes or creams can also help relieve pain and itching without side effects.
4. Essential oils
Essential oils like tea tree oil are overlooked as natural home remedies for hemorrhoids. The anti-inflammatory activity of essential oils shrinks swollen veins and thus reduces the swelling and pain of hemorrhoids.
In addition, they provide the necessary support for weakened veins, which can prevent hemorrhoids from recurring. Essential oils can also provide helpful hormones, vitamins, and nutrients.
To use, mix 2 drops of tea tree oil in 1 teaspoon of castor oil, transfer the mixture to a cotton ball and apply to the affected area. You can repeat the process twice a week.
5. Ice packs
Applying ice packs to angry hemorrhoids can definitely be effective in relieving pain and inflammation. In addition to reducing swelling, cold temperatures also have a numbing effect, helping to temporarily decrease pain. You should always make sure to wrap the ice in a small towel, as applying ice directly to the skin can cause damage and increase the irritation of hemorrhoids.
Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes at least 3 times a day. For maximum effect, use this treatment after a warm sitz bath, as sitz bath dilates the veins in the rectum and anus, and ice packs constrict them.
6. Coconut oil
Coconut oil can also help with hemorrhoid symptoms. Applying coconut oil can reduce irritation and swelling, and it can also help reduce the urge to itch the affected area.
Apply coconut oil to a cotton ball and apply it directly to the hemorrhoids for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day.
7. Drink lots of fluids
Most anal problems like hemorrhoids are caused by a lack of fluids in the diet.
Drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day keeps the stool soft and manageable as it moves through the intestines. The result is a much softer stool that requires less energy to pass and causes less irritation to hemorrhoids.
8. Wear appropriate clothing
Loose, breathable cotton clothing and underwear is recommended. This can help prevent the area around the hemorrhoids from becoming irritated by excess sweating and help reduce symptoms.
9. Diet rich in fiber
A diet rich in fiber softens the stool, prevents constipation, reduces pain, irritation and discomfort when defecating. A diet rich in fiber also helps maintain digestive health. Fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber.
NB: If the hemorrhoids do not improve or the symptoms worsen, it is recommended to consult a doctor to seek medical treatment.