Hemorrhoid is considered the varicose vein of the rectum. There are internal and external hemorrhoids that can form near the anus, which is the exit hole of feces, an area supplied by blood vessels. These vessels are affected by constipation, obesity, pregnancy, and even some medications. When this happens, there is an increase in pressure on the blood vessels, causing engorgement of blood to an impinged area.
While internal hemorrhoids are usually painless, external hemorrhoids typically present with burning, itching, and pain. While both can present with bright red blood in the stool, if the problem should show more than a few days, a trip to your doctor would be in order. There are many natural remedies for hemorrhoids; they include, but are not limited to, the following.
- Witch Hazel: This plant has been used by the native American population for years. Due to its anti-inflammatory and cooling effects, it is popular for use when treating hemorrhoids by direct application to the area.
- Cold compress: A cold compress to the area reverses the effects of inflammation and swelling.
- Epsom salt: Drawing a bath with Epsom salt helps to soothe the irritation caused by hemorrhoids.
- Aloe Vera: Filled with antioxidants and known for its anti-inflammatory effects, pure aloe gel applied to the area decreases irritation.
The most direct way to relieve yourself from the discomfort of hemorrhoids is addressing constipation—the most common culprit that causes this condition. A lack of fiber and water in the body creates stool that is hard as a rock, which increases the difficulty in passing these stools and thus creates a situation where you must bear down more often and spend a greater amount of time on the toilet. The remedies mentioned above are necessary to address the discomfort of hemorrhoids, but the decision to make a few lifestyle changes will not just provide future relief but also resolve the problem—in most cases, altogether.
