Hemorrhoids are dilated veins in the final region of the intestine, which often become inflamed, causing pain and discomfort, especially when evacuating and sitting.
Most hemorrhoids usually clear up with homemade measures such as sitz baths, however pain relievers and anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen or naproxen for example may also be needed to help relieve pain and inflammation.
Thus, 7 homemade tips to deal with hemorrhoids and help alleviate symptoms include:
1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day
Keeping your body well hydrated is one of the simplest ways to alleviate the pain caused by hemorrhoids. This is because, when well hydrated, the body has a greater capacity to heal and the stools are also not very hard, not causing irritation when passing through the hemorrhoids.
To ensure adequate hydration, drink at least 1.5 liters of water a day, or the equivalent of 8 or 10 glasses a day, for example.
2. Eat a high fiber diet
Like water, fiber is also very important for people with hemorrhoids, as it helps to make the stool softer, as it is the fibers that can hold water.
Thus, in addition to helping to reduce pain during a hemorrhoid attack, the fibers also help to prevent the appearance of new hemorrhoids, as they fight constipation. Some of the richest fiber foods include oats, plums, flaxseed or beans, for example.
Check out a more complete list of high-fiber foods.
3. Do sitz baths
Sitz baths are a type of natural treatment often used to relieve the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids, as they increase blood circulation to the area, speeding up healing and relieving irritation.
To make the sitz bath, place a few centimeters of warm water, around 37º C, inside a basin and then sit inside, so that the hemorrhoids are completely immersed in the water.
Also see what plants you can add to the sitz bath to ensure faster recovery.
4. Avoid using toilet paper
Although toilet paper is a very practical and simple way to clean your butt after using the toilet, it has a very uneven surface and, therefore, it can cause irritation of the hemorrhoids, making the pain worse.
So, the ideal is to clean with wet wipes or, then, wash the anus region in the bathtub after defecating, avoiding using soap.
5. Apply cold compresses
The heat of sitz baths is an excellent way to alleviate pain and promote healing, however, if there is a very large swelling in the anus region, it is best to apply some compresses and dip in ice water for 5 to 10 minutes, avoiding use ice directly on the skin.
See how to prepare cold compresses correctly.
6. Apply witch hazel ointments
For external hemorrhoids, witch hazel ointments are a great option, as they relieve irritation and also stimulate healing. Some examples of ointments with this plant include Hemovirtus or Proctosan, for example. Ointments should be applied 2 to 3 times a day, preferably after bathing.
See what other ointments can be used and how to prepare a homemade witch hazel ointment.
7. Be careful when sitting
Simple everyday habits, such as sitting, can cause a lot of pain when you have hemorrhoids, as the increase in pressure in the anus region reduces the blood flow to the area. So, to sit more comfortably, you can use a special pillow for hemorrhoids with a hole in the center, for example.
