Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Things You’ll Need:
- Whole grain foods
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Bathtub
- Cold compress
- Cream or ointment
- Family doctor
Step1
Minimize pressure and straining. Try adding fiber to your diet to help control your constipation. Achieve easier elimination by incorporating bran and fresh fruits and vegetables, which result in a softer, bulkier stool. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and add bulk and softness to the stool. An over-the-counter stool softener can also assist in this part of hemorrhoid relief.
Step2
Soak it. A warm sitz bath is one of the easiest and most effective ways to treat painful hemorrhoids. Try soaking in a warm sitz bath three or four times a day to help relieve painful hemorrhoids. Fill the tub with three to four inches of water and soak the area for approximately 15 minutes.
Step3
Use a cold pack. Apply a cold pack to the area for reprieve from the swelling. If using an ice pack, be sure to cover it with a soft cloth to prevent further damage to the affected area.
Step4
See your doctor. If home remedies aren't getting you the hemorrhoid relief you need, you may need to consult your physician, as the situation may be more serious that you thought. A physical exam will tell the doctor which forms of treatment may get you some relief.
Step5
Choose a treatment. If your doctor's help is necessary in finding relief, investigate your treatment options. Some remedies that your doctor may recommend include the application of prescription creams or ointments, or some form of surgery such as rubber-band litigation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation and hemorrhoidectomy.
Step6
Prevent recurrence. Keep stools soft and eliminate as soon as you feel the urge. Exercise and a high-fiber diet are also helpful in preventing the recurrence of hemorrhoids.
