Piles or hemorrhoids are caused by an inflammation in the blood vessels lining the rectum and the anus. They can be of two types, internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless although there may be some amount of bleeding involved. Internal hemorrhoids may also protrude from the anus, a condition known as prolapsed hemorrhoids. In such cases, small amounts of fecal matter and mucus may collect on the prolapsed hemorrhoid leading to a condition known as pruritus ani. Wiping or rubbing to relieve the itching will only worsen the problem.
The most common causes of hemorrhoids are poor dietary habits leading to chronic constipation coupled with a sedentary lifestyle. The standard cures for hemorrhoids are to change a person’s diet so as to relieve constipation. Since you are already getting enough of fiber and exercising regularly you can try some of the popular home remedies for treating constipation and hemorrhoids. These include:
- Go Immediately: Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need to defecate. Postponing it can lead to the stools backing up and will require additional pressure and straining when you finally get down to the job.
- Sitz Bath: Use a sitz bath after every bowel movement. This will help to relieve itching and relax the sphincter muscles. Regular use of a sitz bath will also keep your anus clean and promote healing. Use it for 20 minutes every time and gently pat yourself dry.
- Creams: Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams containing a local anesthetic can help relieve pain. Hydrocortisone based creams while effective, should only be used for short periods of time.
- Witch Hazel: Wipes containing this herb can be used to provide relief. Alternatively, you can cool a bottle of witch hazel in the refrigerator and apply it to the hemorrhoid after a bowel movement. The herb is reputed to reduce the inflammation, making the blood vessels smaller.
- Water: Drink plenty of water and keep well hydrated. This will help to keep your stools soft and ease their passage through the anus.
- Probiotics: These foods that have live bacterial cultures can help improve the health of your digestive system.
- Sit Comfortably: In the case of prolapsed hemorrhoids it is better to sit on a doughnut shaped cushion to avoid exerting pressure on the hemorrhoids.
- Enemas and Suppositories: An enema or suppository will only help you if you are severely constipated. It will not help to heal your hemorrhoids.
Consult your doctor before trying any of these home remedies. If none of these methods work then you should consider opting for rubber band ligation or surgery.
Reference:
answered by A S