HOME REMEDIES FOR HAEMORRHOIDS OR PILES

Haemorrhoids are also called as piles is a condition when the veins in anus and rectum are swollen. A person who is suffering with piles shows signs and symptoms including pain & itching around anal region, and bleeding per rectum.

Haemorrhoids typically vary from mild which go away on their own in few weeks to severe discomfort. Certain home remedies can help getting rid of piles.

1. Aloe vera
   
   Aloe vera gel has gained popularity in treatment for various skin disorders. Aloe vera is also used to treat piles or haemorrhoids. Since Aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties, therefore it helps reduce irritation.

   Few people who are allergic to garlic or onions, can be allergic to aloe vera too. Check for allergic reaction by rubbing a small amount of aloe vera on your forearm. If no reaction occurs until 24 hours, it is said to be safe for use.

2. Warm bath with Epsom salt
   
   Warm baths can help relax the irritation from piles or haemorrhoids. Taking a warm bath for 20 minutes after every bowel movement is effective and adding Epsom salts to the bath might provide further relief by reducing pain.
3. Over-the-counter ointments
   Over-the-counter ointments and creams are easily available in market and can provide immediate relief. Some ointments help piles or haemorrhoid to heal faster by reducing swelling around the anal region.
4. Soothing wipes
   
   Using toilet paper after every bowel movement aggravate existing piles. Therefore, it is advised to use wet wipes as wipes help keep the area clean without causing further irritation.

   Ensure that the wipes should not contain any component based on alcohol, perfume, or other irritants in them. These substances can increase the symptoms instead of relieving them.

5. Cold compresses
   It is always effective and beneficial to apply ice packs or cold compresses to the anus. Ice packs relieve swelling around the anal region. Never apply ice or cold compress directly to the skin, put ice inside a cloth or paper towel to avoid chill burns.
6. Stool softeners
   Stool softeners or fiber supplements, like psyllium, can help reduce constipation, make stool softer, and make it easier to have quick, painless bowel movements.

   Many of these stool softeners come in forms like powders, capsules, and liquids that you take by mouth between once and three times a day.

7. Loose, cotton clothing
   Swapping out tight clothes made with polyester with ultra-breathable cotton (especially cotton underwear) can help keep the anal area clean and dry. This can potentially reduce symptoms. Avoid using perfumed detergents or fabric softeners to reduce irritation.

Preventing haemorrhoids

Lifestyle and dietary changes are the best way to prevent hemorrhoids. Staying physically active and eating healthy help to keep your bowel movements regular.

Eat lots of high-fiber food and drink plenty of water to keep the digestive process moving correctly and prevent constipation. Regular exercise and avoiding sitting for long period of time can also help prevent haemorrhoids.

The most effective way to avoid constipation is to go to the bathroom when you first feel the urge. Delaying a bowel movement allows the bowel to reabsorb water from the stool. This makes stool harder when you finally do go.

When to see your doctor

Chronic blood loss from a haemorrhoid could cause anaemia. Internal haemorrhoids can also have their blood supply cut off, resulting in strangulated haemorrhoids, which can cause extreme pain.

If home treatments are not effective after more than two weeks, make an appointment to see the specialized doctor. If these treatments don’t work, they may recommend surgical treatments like laparoscopic surgery to remove the piles or haemorrhoids.