Anyone that has ever suffered with hemorrhoids will tell you they are not fun and are just plain painful. They do not go away after time on their own. That does not happen and treatment is necessary to make them go away.
There are a variety of hemorrhoid treatments available over the counter. They are easy to use and quite affordable. Doctors often recommend these topical creams for patients with hemorrhoids that are not actively bleeding.
- What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids occur when there is a dilation of the veins in the anal region. These lumps swell in the lower part of the rectum and anus. Some people refer to them as piles.
The symptoms can be almost unbearable. Many sufferers complain about intense anal itching or burning and hard and tender bumps which cause discomfort while sitting. Very painful bowel movements are often problematic for the person. Still others have bleeding from the hemorrhoids and will see blood on the bathroom tissue, on the fecal matter or in the toilet.
The most common cause of piles is straining while having a bowel movement. Oftentimes pregnant women or those that have just had a baby will get hemorrhoids do to pressure in the anal area. Those that spend a lot of time sitting often get them. Anal infections can also trigger hemorrhoids that can either be internal or external.
- Hemorrhoid Creams
Most hemorrhoid patients choose to purchase over the counter hemorrhoid creams such as Preparation H. Most pharmacy chains have their own brands of cream as well.
These topical ointments are applied directly to the swollen anal area. The lidocaine in the product will immediately help reduce the intense itching and slowly bring the swelling down.
- Hemorrhoid Pads
The pads can be uncomfortable to use for the person who has a very swollen anal region. The pads get tucked in the base of the anus. They are medicated and will reduce pain, itching and swelling. The pads are not recommended for the patient that has bleeding from the area as the pads can occasionally cause rubbing and irritation. Any new irritation can cause an exacerbation of the problem.
- Witch Hazel
Using witch hazel to treat hemorrhoids is an old time remedy. For centuries, people have used it to relieve the horrific itching associated with piles. It should be applied with cotton balls and can be used as often as necessary to ease the discomfort. With time, it will also aid in the reduction of swelling.
- Sitz Baths
Doctors always recommend sitz baths for hemorrhoid patients. These can be used alone as treatment or in combination with others. A sitz bath is not a regular bath. It is when only the buttocks are soaked in warm water. The soaking should take place for fifteen minutes and will help reduce itching and pain. Witch hazel, creams or pads should be applied directly after the sitz bath.
- Tips To Ease Discomfort
No matter which treatment you decide to use, it is important to facilitate softer bowel movements. This will help you to eliminate your bowels without having to strain. Additional straining can cause the hemorrhoids to get worse and swell more. Excess pressure can also make your piles start to bleed.
Over the counter stool softeners will readily assist you in easier stool elimination. This will cause less stress on the inflamed area and allow time for the hemorrhoids to shrink and heal.
Cotton underwear will make the area more comfortable. Be sure that they are properly fitted as any rubbing can cause further irritation.
Stock your bathroom with unscented, white toilet tissue. Added dyes and perfumes can create additional discomfort.