Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are a common issue that many people experience. They are swollen, enlarged veins that can form inside your rectum or outside your anus. These hard lumps can cause pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. Though they can be uncomfortable, hemorrhoids don’t typically cause serious problems and will often go away on their own. There are, however, some things you can do at home to relieve symptoms. Here are some of the best ways to treat hemorrhoids at home:
1. Soak in a Warm Bath
Fill a bathtub with a few inches of warm water and soak for about 15 minutes at a time. You can repeat this two to three times a day and after every bowel movement to relieve pain and reduce inflammation caused by hemorrhoids. There are also sitz baths that you can put directly on your toilet seat to make it easier to soak the affected area. After soaking, gently pat dry or use a blow dryer on a cool setting.
2. Apply an Ice Pack
Ice can help relieve the pain and inflammation of hemorrhoids. Try applying a small cold pack to the trouble area for about 5 to 10 minutes several times a day. This will bring down the swelling and ease the pain for a little while. There are hemorrhoid ice packs specifically designed for icing hemorrhoids, or you can just wrap a regular ice pack in a towel and apply it to the affected area.
3. Use Over-the-Counter Medications
You can apply a topical hemorrhoid cream that contains hydrocortisone to help relieve pain and discomfort. Witch hazel wipes are a natural alternative and have a soothing effect on hemorrhoids. There are also hemorrhoidal suppositories that you can insert into your rectum to relieve swelling and pain. For additional pain relief, you can take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or aspirin to reduce inflammation and discomfort. An over-the-counter stool softener can also help by easing constipation and making it less painful to use the bathroom.
4. Eat More Fiber
Adding more fiber to your diet can soften stool and increase its bulk, making it easier to pass. This can help you avoid straining when you go to the bathroom, reducing the pressure on hemorrhoids so they can heal. Foods that are high in fiber include beans, whole grains, vegetables, and fruits. You can also take fiber supplements to increase your daily fiber intake.
5. Practice Good Bathroom Habits
To treat hemorrhoids and prevent them, you need to practice good bathroom habits. Limit the time you spend on the toilet and avoid straining. If you can’t go after a few minutes, don’t try to force something to happen. If possible, get into a routine where you go at the same time each day. To avoid stool backing up and adding more pressure, go when you feel like you have to. Be gentle when wiping, and if toilet paper is irritating, you can dampen it or use pre-moistened wipes.
Compounded Hemorrhoid Treatments at Midtown Express Pharmacy
These are some of the best ways to treat hemorrhoids at home. If you’re experiencing a lot of discomfort, you may benefit from compounded hemorrhoid treatments. Here at Midtown Express Pharmacy, we can create compounded creams and suppositories that contain active ingredients such as hydrocortisone, lidocaine, nifedipine, benzocaine, and others to fight inflammation and numb the pain. To learn more about our compounding solutions or for more advice about treating hemorrhoids, please reach out to us today. We’re here to help in any way we can!
