Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen or inflamed veins in the area of the anus and rectum. The symptoms of hemorrhoids are the pain, itching or irritation of the anus and rectal bleeding. They can develop internally, inside of the anus and rectum, or externally. In fact, in the country, up to seventy-five percent of the people suffer from hemorrhoids at some stage in life. While this typically lasts for a few days, it may become severe and lead to acute discomfort.

There are several hemorrhoid cures available. A few of them are listed below.

Changes In Diet

• Foods High In Fiber
  When dealing with hemorrhoids, it is essential to reduce constipation and hardening of the stool.

• Drink Enough Water
  Water and certain fluids are essential to ensure that the fiber travels accurately down the digestive tract. Studies show that the reduction in the consumption of fluids and water can, in fact, exacerbate constipation, due to which the condition of hemorrhoids may worsen. You should drink at least a glass of water with every meal, so as to relieve constipation and avoid hemorrhoids.

• Foods That Are Fermented
  Foods that are fermented (such as kimchi and kefir) and probiotics help maintain the health of the gastrointestinal tract. They ensure that nutrients are available, appropriately modify the pH level of the gut, and help in digestion.

• Alcohol And Spicy Food
  The consumption of alcohol leads to dehydration. Alcohol can make hemorrhoids worse. Foods rich in spices can also worsen hemorrhoids symptoms.

Change In Bathroom Habits

• Treat Constipation
  Constipation is one of the main issues when trying to cure hemorrhoids. When constipated, you need to strain when using the bathroom. Constipation increases the pain and inflammation of hemorrhoid. Drinking sufficient fluids, regular exercise and consuming fiber-rich foods help in dealing with constipation. These are also important as by practicing these you can fight hemorrhoids itself.

• Avoid Straining
  Do not delay going to the bathroom. It is important to understand your body clock in this matter appropriately. You should avoid forcing yourself during defecation as it can be painful and worsen the hemorrhoid problems. Do not delay before you go to the toilet. Delaying will make the stool harder, and thus eliminating waste will be more painful. You should also avoid prolonged exertion and avoid spending a lot of time on the toilet.
  Straining yourself for long durations can worsen hemorrhoids. Do not try to keep yourself distracted when using the bathroom, as this will lead to more time straining, which will be painful and worsen the situation.

• Clean Yourself Properly
  Hemorrhoids can exacerbate if you leave behind stool even after wiping. Thus it is important to clean yourself completely. Refrain from roughly cleaning yourself or using soaps that are harsh due to alcohol or chemicals. Rather, plain water should be utilized first to wipe yourself. Do not use toilet paper right after a bowel movement. You can also use wet wipes, especially those with aloe vera or witch hazel as these have anti-inflammatory properties. However, they should not contain irritants such as alcohol or perfume.

• Warm Baths
  Warm baths are great hemorrhoid cures. You can also sit in a warm water bath with Epsom salt for around ten minutes. It can be done twice daily. Warm bath help lessens the irritation, anal itching or burning due to hemorrhoids.

Supplements

Supplements such as Pycnogenol, horse chestnut (otherwise used to improve the flow of blood and known to help in microcirculation) psyllium husk (a source of fiber) and witch hazel (known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties) may be used. Fiber supplements such as Citrucel and Metamucil can be taken as hemorrhoid cures.

Usage Of Essential Oils

• Cypress
  Essential oil of cypress is known for its antiseptic, antioxidant and hemostatic qualities. Thus, it has the power to help stop an excess flow of blood and helps with blood clotting. It helps to contract the blood vessels and stimulates blood flow as well. It can also assist in the reduction of anxiety leading to a calm feeling. This can aid in the treatment of constipation for certain people. Three or four drops may be added to a cotton pad and applied to the affected area for effective hemorrhoid cures.

• Helichrysum
  Essential oil of Helichrysum boasts of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It helps to secrete the gastric acids that are needed for the digestion of food and thus aids in digestion. Apply two or three drops to the affected area to help reduce swelling and pain due to hemorrhoids. It can be used several times a day so as to soothe pain and inflammation.