If you are suffering from hemorrhoid pain, you probably are interested in how to get rid of hemorrhoids. Most hemorrhoid treatments focus on relieving the pain and the symptoms associated with having hemorrhoids, although in some serious cases, surgical intervention may become necessary.
Some of the most common ways to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids include using a sitz bath kit or warm bath to soak the anal region or using ice packs to help reduce the swelling. The pain associated with hemorrhoids can be treated using over the counter oral pain medications such as aspirin or acetaminophen. Hemorrhoid creams, such as Preparation-H, and cortisone creams and petroleum jelly can also help relieve the itching and swelling caused by hemorrhoids. Finally, when you are suffering from a hemorrhoid outbreak you should try to wear comfortable, lose fitting underwear and clothing.
In the case of very serious hemorrhoids, such as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid or a prolapsed hemorrhoid, a surgical procedure called a hemorrhoidectomy may be used to remove the hemorrhoid group. There are also other medical procedures that can help shrink the hemorrhoids, including laser coagulation and infrared photocoagulation. Injection sclerotherapy can also be used, which involves injecting the area around the hemorrhoid with a chemical that closes off the veins supplying blood to the hemorrhoid, thus causing it to shrink. Finally, a rubber band can be placed at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut of the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually fall off.
If you suffer from hemorrhoids, there are also some lifestyle changes you can make that can help prevent hemorrhoids from developing or returning. Preventative measures include eating a diet that is rich in fiber and drinking at least eight cups of water every day. If you are overweight, losing weight can help prevent hemorrhoids from forming or returning. An active lifestyle, including regular exercise, can help prevent hemorrhoids as well. You should also be sure to avoid straining while having bowel movements. Difficulty with bowel movements can be helped by using a stool softener or natural laxative such as psyllium husks and by making dietary changes.
