Hemorrhoidsare swollen veins in the anus or rectum due to pressure.
Read on to learn aboutat-home treatmentsthat can help soothe symptoms and possibly prevent hemorrhoids from forming or recurring.
Asitz bathis a shallow pan filled with warm water that often fits over a toilet seat.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
It can be found at many pharmacies.
you’re able to also fill a bathtub with a few inches of water and sit in it.
It’s important to keep theperianal area(area around the anus) dry.
After each bath, gently pat the area dry without rubbing.
Aloe Vera
Aloe veracan be used topically for relief of skin condition symptoms.
It is usually well-tolerated, but occasional burning, itching, andeczemahave been reported.
Witch hazel can be found in products such as Tucks pads.
It found that coconut oil applied twice daily for two weeks improved symptoms better than lifestyle changes alone.
More research is needed on the use of coconut oil as a treatment for hemorrhoids.
This can be done using a small ice pack or cold compress.
double-check the ice is wrapped in a towel or cloth; don’t apply ice directly to the skin.
Over-the-Counter Medications
Many over-the-counter (OTC)topical hemorrhoid treatmentsare available.
For some people, these provide temporary symptom relief.
Moistened Wipes
Cleaning the anus after each bowel movement can help with symptoms like itching.
It’s important to be gentle when cleaning.
Use moistened toilet paper or unscented baby wipes, then pat dry.
Keeping the perianal area dry can help preventanal itching.
When Should Home Treatments Be Started?
Don’t assume symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, or itching are triggered by hemorrhoids.
Lifestyle Changes for Hemorrhoids
Lifestyle changes are the most commonly suggested ways to treat and prevent hemorrhoids.
Increasing fiber intake can be done by adding more fiber-rich foods to your diet.
These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
Start slowly and work up to this amount to avoid digestive upset.
Eight to 10 glasses a day is typical, but the amount needed can differ per person.
Exercise
Moderate exercise can help stimulate bowel function.
However, more research is needed to confirm the benefits of these therapies.
Hemorrhoids often resolve on their own, but they can be helped by lifestyle changes and at-home remedies.
Try different methods to see what works best for you.
If your symptoms don’t improve, consult your healthcare provider.
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