10 Natural Remedies and Lifestyle Changes to Help You Get Rid of Hemorrhoids

I. Introduction

If you are among the 75 percent of people who experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives, you know how uncomfortable and painful they can be. Hemorrhoids, swollen veins in the anus and rectum, can cause itching, burning, and even bleeding. However, there are natural remedies and lifestyle changes you can make to get rid of hemorrhoid symptoms and prevent them from worsening.

II. 10 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids

Natural remedies can provide relief from hemorrhoid symptoms without the use of medication or invasive procedures. Here are ten natural remedies to try:

1. Witch hazel: Use a cotton ball to apply witch hazel to the affected area. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can reduce swelling and inflammation.

2. Aloe vera: Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling. Apply a small amount of aloe vera gel to the affected area.

3. Warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes can help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms. Add Epsom salts to the bathwater for further relief.

4. Ice packs: Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and numb pain. Wrap the ice pack in a cloth and apply to the area for 15 minutes at a time.

5. Apple cider vinegar: Soak a cotton ball in apple cider vinegar and apply to the affected area for a few minutes. Apple cider vinegar can help reduce the itching and irritation caused by hemorrhoids.

6. Coconut oil: Apply a small amount of coconut oil to the affected area to moisturize and soothe irritated skin.

7. Essential oils: Certain essential oils, such as tea tree oil and lavender oil, have soothing properties that can provide relief from hemorrhoid symptoms. Mix a few drops of essential oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, and apply to the affected area.

8. Butcher’s broom: Butcher’s broom is a plant extract that can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation. It can be taken as a supplement or applied topically to the affected area.

9. Calendula: Calendula, also known as marigold, has anti-inflammatory properties that can ease hemorrhoid symptoms. Apply a calendula cream to the affected area.

10. Horse chestnut: Horse chestnut extract can improve circulation and reduce swelling. It can be taken as a supplement or applied topically to the affected area.

By trying these natural remedies, you can find relief from hemorrhoid symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.

III. Surgical vs. Non-Surgical Treatments for Hemorrhoids

If natural remedies are not effective, medical treatment may be necessary. Invasive treatments, such as surgery, rubber band ligation, and infrared coagulation, can be effective but come with risks. Non-surgical treatments, such as topical creams, suppositories, and injections, can provide relief without the risks of surgery.

Pros and cons of invasive treatments:

Pros: Invasive treatments can provide long-term relief and eliminate hemorrhoids entirely.
Cons: Invasive treatments can be painful and come with risks such as bleeding, infection, and incontinence.

Guidance on which options might be best:

If your hemorrhoids are severe or causing bleeding, surgery or rubber band ligation may be necessary.
If your hemorrhoids are less severe, non-surgical treatments such as topical creams, sitz baths, and lifestyle changes may be effective.

IV. How Diet and Exercise Can Help Your Hemorrhoids

Lifestyle changes can be effective in preventing and treating hemorrhoid symptoms. By increasing your fiber intake and doing specific exercises to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, you can reduce your risk of hemorrhoids and improve symptoms.

The benefits of increasing fiber intake:

Fiber softens stool, making it easier to pass. Hard, dry stools can irritate hemorrhoids and cause bleeding.
Fiber reduces constipation, which can be a major cause of hemorrhoids.
Fiber increases the bulk of stool, which can prevent straining during bowel movements.

Exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles:

Kegels: Squeeze the muscles you would use to stop the flow of urine for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10 to 15 times.
Reverse Kegels: Push out the muscles you would use to pass gas for a few seconds, then release. Repeat 10 to 15 times.
Squats: Squatting puts less pressure on your pelvic floor muscles than sitting on a toilet seat. Try squatting for a few minutes during bowel movements.

By making these simple lifestyle changes, you can improve your hemorrhoid symptoms and prevent future flare-ups.

V. The Emotional Toll of Hemorrhoids and How to Cope

Hemorrhoids can take a toll on your mental health as well as your physical health. Here are some coping strategies for managing the emotional aspects of dealing with hemorrhoids:

Stay positive and remember that hemorrhoids are a common condition that can be treated.
Seek support from loved ones or join a support group of people who are going through the same thing.
Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and yoga to reduce stress.
Focus on healthy habits such as exercise, healthy eating, and good sleep hygiene.
Consider talking to a mental health professional if your emotional struggles are interfering with your ability to manage your physical symptoms.

VI. Hemorrhoid Myths Busted

Hemorrhoids are a common and often misunderstood condition. Here are some common myths about hemorrhoids debunked:

Myth: Only older people get hemorrhoids. Truth: Hemorrhoids can affect people of any age, including children.
Myth: Hemorrhoids are caused by sitting on cold surfaces. Truth: Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins in the anus and rectum, often due to constipation or sitting for prolonged periods.
Myth: Surgery is the only effective treatment for hemorrhoids. Truth: Non-surgical treatments and lifestyle changes can be effective in managing hemorrhoid symptoms.
Myth: Hemorrhoids are a result of poor hygiene. Truth: Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the veins in the anus and rectum, not by poor hygiene.

VII. Conclusion

In conclusion, while hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and painful, there are natural remedies, medical treatments, and lifestyle changes that can provide relief and prevent future flare-ups. Seek treatment if you are experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms, and remember to take care of your mental health while managing your physical symptoms.