In this article, I'm going to discuss the best ways to take care of hemorrhoids. But first, let's go over what exactly hemorrhoids are. Hemorrhoids are sometimes known as piles, and occur when ano-rectal veins become inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by numerous factors, including prolonged sitting or standing, or even pregnancy. Piles often result in pain, itching, and bleeding. The two most common types of piles are internal and external. The main difference is in where exactly on the rectum they are located. If you are unsure whether you actually have piles, it can help to take a look at piles pictures, or if your symptoms are severe, you may want to consult a doctor.
The following measures may help to ease the pain and itching if you are suffering from hemorrhoids or piles:
- Use cold to reduce the inflammation. Apply a cold pack directly to the anus. The best way to do this is to lie face down and have someone apply the cold pack for you.
- When using the toilet, use care when wiping. Use toilet paper that you've pre-dampened with water. It can also be helpful to skip the TP entirely, and just use baby wipes.
- Keep your rectum very clean. Use moistened toilet paper to gently wipe your anus several times a day, even if you don't use the toilet. Much of the irritation can come from subtle anal leakage.
- Try to avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods of time. If your job requires prolonged sitting or standing, try to take breaks at least every hour or so.
- Take hot sitz baths at least 2x per week. Do not use any kind of perfumed oil or salts in the bath. Soak for at least 30 minutes. Also, do not use perfumed soap to clean your bottom.
- Try to get, or remain, regular. Constipation and diarrhea can exacerbate piles. Eat plenty of foods that contain fiber. These include fruits, veggies, beans, whole grain breads etc.
- Drink plenty of water. This will also contribute to regularity and a softening of your stool. Shoot for at least 8 glasses a day.
- Exercise. Vigorously if possible. At the very least, if you're not in great shape, try to walk for 45 minutes a day. This helps to promote regularity and soften stools.
- Do not strain on the toilet. Let things come out in their own time. Straining can make hemorrhoids and piles worse quickly.
- On the topic of straining, try to minimize your lifting of heavy objects. If you must lift them, make sure that you use proper lifting technique, and lift with your legs.
- Utilize OTC and natural drugs and remedies to reduce the pain and irritation from piles. Natural remedies are best, but drugs containing cortisone can also be effective.
- Get medical help if necessary. In advanced cases surgery is the only option. Surgeries include sclerotherapy, which reduces the size of the hemorrhoidal mass, or rubber band ligation, which removes the piles entirely.
Trever Clark is an herbalist who specializes in natural, Eastern based remedies. His current interests lie in digestive issues. He writes widely, and can currently be found at http://www.pilespictures.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Trever_Clark
