How to Treat Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids, common in both men and women, are usually not dangerous or life threatening. In most cases, hemorrhoidal symptoms will go away within a few days.

Hemorrhoids have been estimated to occur in up to half the population by age fifty. Medical treatment focuses mainly on relieving symptoms. Soaking several times a day in warm water for about 10 minutes goes a long way in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Be sure to thoroughly dry the skin around your anus after each soak. Hemorrhoidal cream can be applied to the affected area for extra relief.

Reoccurrence can be prevented by alleviating the straining of constipation. Recommended methods for the prevention of constipation are increasing fiber and fluids in the diet. Consuming the right amount of fiber and fluids result in softer, bulkier stools.

A softer stool is easier to pass and helps prevent the hemorrhoids from protruding. Use caution in choosing a laxative for constipation. Laxatives often cause watery, runny stools, possibly causing an infection in the anus and should not be used.

Vegetables, fruit, and whole grains are good sources for fiber. Bulk stool softeners or a fiber supplement such as Citrucel or Metamucil can also be helpful. However, natural solutions are always best and foods that promote regularity include;

- Oatmeal or any high fiber cereal.
- sweet potatoes
- peas
- lentils
- Fruit such as pears, plums or apples.
- Raw vegetables like carrots, cucumbers or bell peppers.

People with hemorrhoids shouldn't sit for long periods at a time. Instead of relaxing in your favorite lounge chair, perhaps it would be better to stretch out on the sofa. If you can't avoid sitting, use an air doughnut.

Some hemorrhoids have to be treated surgically to shrink and destroy the hemorrhoidal tissue. There are a number of ways to remove or reduce the size of internal hemorrhoids.

There is a technique called, Rubber band ligation where a rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off circulation. The hemorrhoid then shrinks and fades away within a few days.