Most hemorrhoids that are external can be treated in your own home using remedies, such as witch hazel, sitz baths and topical cream. If you’d like to keep hemorrhoids from occurring, you can try eating more fiber, drinking more water, and using stool softeners. By reading the following article, you will get some pointers that have worked for others who suffer from hemorrhoids.

If you keep your anal area clean, you will be less likely to develop hemorrhoids. A moist towelette is preferable to toilet paper, and it will probably be more comfortable, too. A warm sitz bath will relieve the pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. Soak in your bath for 20 minutes.

Help prevent the development of external hemorrhoids by improving your bathroom hygiene. For example, choose the best feeling toilet paper that will wipe cleanly, and also be sure to position some moist wipes near the stool for you to use after all bowel movements.

While a nasty case of hemorrhoids may seem like the end of the world, relief is just around the corner. It is recommended you use a sitz bath a few times each day, for approximately 10 minutes or so each time. Another way to minimize the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids is to apply a cold pack to the affected area.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a product that could help to alleviate some of the pain felt from hemorrhoids. This item is an astringent, and it works by shrinking the tissue around the hemorrhoids. This, in turn, will promote healing of the area and pain relief. Using a cotton ball that has been soaked in witch hazel, apply to the area for up to 10 minutes. Alternatively, add the witch hazel into a warm bath.

Sometimes, hemorrhoids can be caused by pushing or straining too hard when you are trying to have a bowel movement. Staying hydrated by consuming more water and cutting back on refined or processed foods is an easy way to soften and ease your bowel movements. Squatting, instead of sitting, during a bowel movement also reduces the amount of straining required to defecate. Buy a small stool or use a wood box for your feet while sitting on the toilet. Interestingly, hemorrhoids are not very common in places where squatting is the more traditional way of evacuating the bowels.

Ice Pack

Use ice to stop hemorrhoid pain. Anyone that has ever suffered with them will attest to the discomfort and pain they can cause. An ice pack will help reduce the swelling and pain. Sometimes, it seems to help to alternate between cold and warm compresses. You can also use this technique while taking a warm bath. Simply bring an ice pack with you, and alternate between sitting in the tub and sitting on the ice pack. This can help to relieve the discomfort caused by the pain, swelling and itchiness of hemorrhoids.

Although there are a number of medications used to treat hemorrhoids, you may find some relief with homemade remedies. Sitting in a sitz bath can decrease the inflammation, pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids can be quite itchy, but you want to avoid scratching because this will just aggravate the area more. Instead, try some witch hazel on a damp cloth, which is then applied to the problem area to get some relief. Try to eat a good amount of fiber, and drink plenty of water every day. This can help keep you from too much straining while having bowel movements.

If you drink water, exercise, change your diet to include more fiber, or apply tropical creams, you can treat your hemorrhoids yourself. By using the information in this article, you can keep future hemorrhoid attacks at a minimum.