Home Remedies for Hemorrhoid Pain

Home Remedies for Hemorrhoid Pain

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed blood vessels that develop inside or outside the anus. Symptoms can range from mildly irritating to very painful. Almost anyone can experience hemorrhoids, but they are more likely if you:

• Are overweight
• Frequently constipated
• Stand or sit for long periods
• Are pregnant

Several home remedies may help relieve symptoms and shrink hemorrhoids, minimizing the need for surgical intervention.

Water Therapy

One of the most effective and immediate ways to treat hemorrhoid discomfort is through a sitz bath. This involves soaking your buttocks in warm water, either in a bathtub or using a sitz bath, which is a plastic basin that sits over the toilet.

Instructions for a sitz bath:

• Soak for 15 to 20 minutes, 2 to 3 times daily
• Relieves itching and irritation from hemorrhoids

If you cannot use a sitz bath, try warm compresses instead. Apply the compress for 10 minutes, 2 to 3 times daily.

Topical Agents

There are many over-the-counter (OTC) creams, ointments, suppositories, and wipes that provide home treatment for hemorrhoids. These products may contain:

• Pain-relieving anesthetics such as lidocaine
• Steroids to reduce swelling and itching
• Phenylephrine to constrict blood vessels and provide temporary pain relief

A common remedy for hemorrhoids is witch hazel, an astringent that may shrink hemorrhoid tissue. Medicated witch hazel pads (commonly sold as Tucks) and bottled witch hazel are widely available at drugstores.

Other natural remedies for hemorrhoids include:

• Butcher’s broom
• Horse chestnut
• Stone root

However, there is limited scientific evidence to confirm their effectiveness.

Stool Softening

Passing hard stools and straining during bowel movements can damage anal tissue and worsen hemorrhoids. Softening the stool can reduce pain and irritation, allowing hemorrhoids to heal. To soften stools, try these home remedies:

• OTC stool softeners like docusate or psyllium
• Increase fiber and fluid intake

High-fiber foods include:

• Whole fruits and vegetables
• Whole grains
• Nuts and seeds
• Beans

Lifestyle Recommendations

According to a May 2012 article in the “World Journal of Gastroenterology,” regular exercise, avoiding straining, and not reading while on the toilet are also recommended for the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids.

When to See a Doctor

Hemorrhoids often respond to home treatments that relieve symptoms and soften the stool. However, if you do not have relief after one week of home treatment, see your doctor. Also, consult a doctor if you experience:

• Bleeding from the rectum
• Severe anal pain
• Intense itching

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I treat hemorrhoids at home using aloe vera and other natural remedies?

Aloe vera gel can be applied directly to external hemorrhoids to help soothe pain and reduce inflammation. Other effective home remedies include:

•  Taking warm baths (sitz baths) for minutes, times a day
• Applying witch hazel to the affected area
• Using over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams containing hydrocortisone
• Drinking plenty of water and eating high fiber foods to soften stools
• Using cold compresses to reduce swelling
• Taking oral pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen

It’s important to note that while these home remedies can provide relief, they may not be sufficient for more severe cases. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider.

2. What are the most effective treatment options for painful external hemorrhoids around the anus?

For painful external hemorrhoids, effective treatment options include:

– Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, ointments, or suppositories containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel
– Sitz baths using a few inches of warm water for 10-15 minutes, three times a day
– Ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling and numb the area
– Oral pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen
– Keeping the anal area clean and dry
– Using moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper
– Wearing loose, breathable cotton underwear

For more severe cases, a doctor might recommend:

– Rubber band ligation (for prolapsed internal hemorrhoids)
– Sclerotherapy
– Infrared, laser, or bipolar coagulation
– Surgical removal (hemorrhoidectomy) for large, persistent hemorrhoids

3. Can a warm bath provide relief from itching and pain caused by internal hemorrhoids?

Yes, warm baths, particularly sitz baths, can provide significant relief from itching and pain caused by internal hemorrhoids. Here’s how:

– Fill a bathtub with a few inches of warm water (not hot)
– Sit in the bath for 10-15 minutes, allowing the warm water to soothe the anal area
– Repeat this 2-3 times a day, especially after bowel movements

Warm baths help by:
– Increasing blood flow to the area, which can promote healing
– Relaxing the sphincter muscles, reducing pressure on the hemorrhoids
– Cleansing the area, which can prevent infection and reduce itching

While warm baths can provide temporary relief, they are not a cure for hemorrhoids. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to seek medical advice.

4. Are there any simple remedies to stop rectal bleeding and find instant relief from hemorrhoid symptoms?

While instant relief can be challenging, several simple remedies can help manage rectal bleeding and provide quick relief from hemorrhoid symptoms:

• Ice packs: Apply a cold compress to the anal area to reduce swelling and numb pain
• Witch hazel: Apply witch hazel directly to the hemorrhoids using a cotton ball It’s a natural astringent that can help reduce bleeding and discomfort
• Over-the-counter creams: Hemorrhoid creams containing hydrocortisone can provide quick relief from itching and pain
• Sitz baths: Sitting in a few inches of warm water for – minutes can soothe the anal area and reduce bleeding
• Moist wipes: Use alcohol-free, unscented moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper to clean the anal area gently
• Oral pain relievers: Take over-the-counter pain medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to help with pain and inflammation

Remember, while these remedies can provide relief, persistent or heavy rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a healthcare provider to rule out more serious conditions.

5. How often should I use hemorrhoid cream or take a sitz bath for hemorrhoids to ensure effective treatment?

For effective treatment of hemorrhoids:

Hemorrhoid cream:

• Apply up to 3-4 times daily, or as directed on the product label
• Use after each bowel movement and before bed
• Continue use for about a week, or as recommended by your healthcare provider

Sitz baths:

• Take 2-3 times daily
• Each session should last 10-15 minutes
• Especially beneficial after bowel movements
• Continue for several days or until symptoms improve

Remember:

• Always follow the instructions on the hemorrhoid cream packaging or your doctor’s advice
• If symptoms don’t improve after 1-2 weeks of home treatment, consult a healthcare provider
• Overuse of hemorrhoid creams, especially those containing hydrocortisone, can thin the skin, so don’t use them for extended periods without medical supervision

Combining these treatments with lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake and staying hydrated can improve their effectiveness. Always consult with a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen despite home treatments.

Source: Youtube