Hemorrhoids, also termed piles, are a widespread health concern these days. But out of hesitation, lack of information, and carelessness, many people avoid medications that might lead to even more significant complications. As per statistics, around fifty percent of the population (approx) living in metropolitan cities suffer from this health anomaly during their lifetime. So, to provide significant relief to such patients, here are a few natural home remedies to tackle the problem. But before that, a little awareness and facts on hemorrhoids will help. Let’s have a look.
What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, or piles, are enlarged or swollen veins situated in the lower part of the rectum and anus. They can be internal, within the anus, or external, outside the anus. The elongation of veins around the anus under pressure leads to swelling, causing significant pain. In their normal state, hemorrhoids are cushioned vascular structures that aid in stool passage and control bowel movement. (1) (2)
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Causes of Hemorrhoids
When there is extreme pressure on the lower section of the rectum, it disturbs the swollen veins known as Hemorrhoids. There can be countless reasons for the pressure to be created.
- Low fiber diet
- Pregnancy
- Struggle during bowel movement
- Anal intercourse
- Constipation
- Obesity
- Poor lifestyle
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Before attempting any treatment, it is highly crucial to learn about the symptoms of the piles, which are as follows:-
- Painless bleeding during the bowel movement
- Itching and irritation in the anal area
- Swelling in the anus
- Pain or discomfort
- You can even find a lump near your anus.
Natural Remedies
There are three ways to cure this lifestyle disease – Over-the-counter medication, surgery, and the natural way. It is best to go the natural way as it will not lead to harmful effects. So, let’s see the effective yet safest treatments that can be done at home.
1. Fiber food
Fibers are natural stool softeners that can help you eliminate uncomfortable piles. Fibers add a lot of bulk to the stool, immediately relieving you from constipation. So, when stool passes through the rectum and anus quickly, the chances of piles almost go away. Some fiber-rich foods you can make part of your daily routine are chia seeds, fruits, leafy vegetables, beans, and whole grains like oatmeal, barley, and brown rice. They help reduce constipation and hemorrhoids.
2. Water consumption
The humble water is always great for soothing the tight muscles. So, adequate hydration is a must for loosening up the problematic stool. Ensure you include around 4 to 5 liters of fluid in your routine. Dehydration makes your body devoid of water as it pulls water from nearby tissues, cells, and colons, thus leading to difficulty in bowel movement. The hard stool then leads to piles. Drinking enough water will help stool move through the gut quickly. Intake of enough fluid will not only keep your bowel healthy but also help in weight reduction.
3. Cold compress
Cold compress is the most handy, practical, and easy home remedy that helps the anus to relieve swelling. It would be best to take an ice pack, moist towel, or thick cloth dipped in ice water for this. Put it above your anal area for 15 to 20 minutes. The method will shrink the hemorrhoid size, making the anorectal area less sensitive and painful. Repeat this 4 to 5 times daily, reducing the itchiness, swelling, and pain to a large extent.
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4. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is one of the most sought-after treatments for issues related to bowel movement. The gel-like substance or the latex of Aloe Vera is highly effective in softening the stool. The anti-bacterial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties help overcome the issue of painful piles. All you need to do is cut the leaf, extract the gel, and apply it to the area. It eliminates the germs from your anorectal area and relieves itchiness, bleeding, pain, and swelling.
5. Fermented Foods
It is said that Vitamin K is a vital element when it comes to having a painless passing of stool. Years back, fermented food was considered an essential component of the daily diet. But, due to ignorance, urban people lack this vital body component. Fermented food is recommended as it allows good bacteria to grow around anal tissues helping in better waste disposal. Fermented foods are rich in vitamin K2, essential for blood vessels and other body parts. Foods that contain vitamin K2 are:-
- Cheese
- Egg
- Butter from grass-fed animals
- Farm-raised chicken meat.
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6. Coconut Oil
As we all know, coconut oil is the best-known oil for lubrication and greasing; it effectively treats piles. Anti-microbial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory, coconut oil helps shrink hemorrhoids and relieves you from constipation and swelling. Apply coconut oil directly on your anus twice every day. You can also add coconut oil to your bathing tub for relief.
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7. Apple Cider Vinegar
ACV is a very efficient and natural remedy straight from your kitchen. Due to its astringent properties, it has anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties to heal wounds. For external hemorrhoids, apply the vinegar directly to your anorectal area. Initially, it may cause a bit of stinging and itching, but it settles with time. When done right, it reduces the irritation and pain of piles. However, the overdose may exaggerate the problem. Take 5ml of apple cider vinegar for internal hemorrhoids with a warm glass of water. If you have it on an empty stomach for three days, you will notice less swelling and pain.
Things to Avoid
There are a few things that one should avoid while having hemorrhoids
- Alcohol
- Red meat
- Processed meat
- Caffeine
- Fried foods
- Ginger
- White bread and bagels
- Milk, cheese and other dairy products
- Aspirin
- Spicy food
You can opt for any of these super simple natural remedies for the problem of piles. However, remember that a few treatments might show fast results while some might take longer. Also, as different remedies act differently on different people, you must be patient. And above all, it is always advisable to see your physician if the condition worsens.
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Summary
Hemorrhoids, or piles, affect around half the population in metropolitan areas. Characterized by swollen veins in the rectum and anus, they cause pain, bleeding, and discomfort. Common causes include a low-fiber diet, pregnancy, and straining during bowel movements. Symptoms include painless bleeding, itching, and swelling. Natural remedies include a fiber-rich diet, increased water consumption, cold compresses, Aloe Vera, fermented foods, coconut oil, and apple cider vinegar. Avoiding certain foods is crucial in managing hemorrhoids.
