Even though there are not many people who willingly talk about hemorrhoids, it is very likely that a significant number of the people you know have at some point dealt with this painful and annoying condition. Read on to become more knowledgeable about different ways to avoid or treat external or internal hemorrhoids.

If you keep your anal area clean, you will be less likely to develop hemorrhoids. Specially-designed hemorrhoid wipes are usually more sanitary than toilet paper, not to mention more comfortable. A sitz bath that’s warm can soothe swelling and pain from hemorrhoids. Soak the area for 20 minutes or more.

If you are prone to developing external hemorrhoids, it may be time to take a closer look at your bathroom hygiene. Using a combination of quality soft toilet tissue that does not break, and moistening wipes after each bowel movement, can be effective.

Alternating ice and heat is a good way to treat hemorrhoids at home. Alternating between ice and heat helps minimize the size of the hemorrhoid and helps it to heal. You should start with ice, applied for about 10 minutes per day, then switch to a moist heat, which you should leave on for around 20 minutes.

Hemorrhoids can be irritated by scented products containing perfumes or dyes, so avoid these if at all possible. Exposure to these substances can cause the hemorrhoids to sting, become more painful and make the itching intensify.

Bowel Movements

Hemorrhoids are often aggravated by difficult bowel movements and the resulting strains they put on the excretory system. Stools will move more freely if you absorb large quantities of water and maintain a diet that is low in refined foods. To avoid straining, you may also want to try squatting. As you sit on your toilet, put a small stool beneath your feet. In countries where people assume a squatting position during bowel movements, hemorrhoids are relatively rare.

Wheat bread is wonderful for your digestion, and can also improve hemorrhoids. It may lessen the redness and skin irritation. Make choosing whole wheat bread for sandwiches, in particular, a habit.

Commercial treatments for hemorrhoids can be costly and often ineffective, so give some natural methods a shot. After you have a bowel movement, soak for about 15 minutes in a sitz bath. Hemorrhoids can be quite itchy, but you want to avoid scratching because this will just aggravate the area more. Dampen some pads or cotton balls with witch hazel, instead, then apply to the area for some temporary relief. Eat tons of food with fiber, and make sure you drink at least eight cups of water each day. This will prevent excessive straining during a bowel movement.

Hemorrhoids can be compared to chicken pox; both are very irritating and cause a lot of itchiness. Scratching them could cause them to bleed and become infected. If your hemorrhoids are torn open, they will be far more painful, and it will greatly increase your risk of contracting bacterial infections.

Heavy Lifting

Frequent heavy lifting is a little-known potential cause of hemorrhoids. This physical, muscular strain is similar to the pressure that you exert when you are constipated. If you find that you are having regular occurrences with hemorrhoids you really should consider finding a way to avoid heavy lifting altogether.

Although it is common for hemorrhoids to cause blood after a bowel movement, it is always a good idea to consult your doctor to rule out all other possible causes. Blood in your stool can be a symptom of many serious health problems, including cancer. It is best to have it properly diagnosed so that you can relax about it. If you do have hemorrhoids, your doctor will be able to inform you about the treatment options that are available.

Consume a good amount of water. This could very well be the best and most natural tip there is in helping you prevent hemorrhoids. Drinking plenty of water prevents constipation, a leading cause of hemorrhoids. Water also helps rid your body of toxins. Drink roughly eight glasses of water each and every day.

Apply this information to your current lifestyle to be better prepared for the treatment of hemorrhoids. While treating the symptoms is important, preventing hemorrhoids is even better. Use these tips and suggestions to prevent future flare ups, or to control the symptoms if you have a recurrence.