How to relieve hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can be very unpleasant, even if they are usually not serious. However, you can easily remedy this discomfort.

 Hemorrhoids are caused by a moving tissue, arteries and veins located in the anus and rectum. They can be painful and unpleasant, but they are usually not serious. Hemorrhoids can occur at any age but are more common with aging. In younger people, they occur most often in pregnant women or new mothers. Over 50% of North Americans suffer or have ever suffered.Are they internal or external?
Hemorrhoids vary depending on their location and extent of the pain or discomfort they cause.
Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum. They generally do not cause pain since this region contains no sensory nerves.
External hemorrhoids develop under the skin near the opening of the anus. They can swell, itch and be very painful, especially during a bowel movement. When hemorrhoids are external and can not be placed back inside, a medical consultation is required.
Mixed hemorrhoids are a combination of internal and external hemorrhoids.What is the cause?
The exact cause is not clearly determined, but several factors contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
You are more likely to suffer from hemorrhoids if:

    you are constipated or force during a bowel movement. Constipation causes compression of internal tissues and promotes hemorrhoid problems;
    you have a low fiber diet. You are then more likely to suffer from constipation;
    you are pregnant or have given birth. The pressure of the fetus favors internal hemorrhoid problems. Moreover, work in childbirth puts additional pressure and frequently prolonging symptoms after delivery;
    you frequently lift heavy objects. Lifting weights and force to do exert pressure on hemorrhoids;
    you sit long.
What are the symptoms of a hemorrhoid problem?
The symptoms caused by hemorrhoids include:

    inflammation;
    pain or a burning sensation, especially if the hemorrhoids are external;
    light bleeding;
    discomfort;
    itching, especially if the hemorrhoids are external.
How can you relieve your symptoms?

    Prevent or relieve constipation. Increase your fluid intake and fiber (prunes, apples, pears, corn, carrots and whole grains). If your hemorrhoids are not serious, this measure may be sufficient. If power is not enough to correct your constipation, a fiber supplement (Metamucil®, etc.) with sufficient fluid intake or stool softener to as docusate sodium (Colace®, etc.) can be used. Check out the profile of PJC friend advice on constipation for more information.
    Avoid straining during bowel movements or remaining long sitting on the toilet.
    After each bowel movement, wash the affected area with water and mild soap or with compresses. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
    If your hemorrhoids are output to the outside of the anus, cold compresses can reduce inflammation.
    Take sitz baths of warm water (about 40 ° C) lasting 15 to 20 minutes, and that three or four times a day to relieve pain associated with hemorrhoids.
    Do not sit too long. Take short steps, get up and stretch periodically.
    Use an eggshell type of cushion when sitting. Avoid donut-shaped cushions as they increase the pressure in the rectum and anus and aggravate hemorrhoids.
    Avoid activities that require heavy lifting.
    Avoid foods that promote hemorrhoids problems such as spicy foods, nuts, coffee and alcohol.
    Exercise and lose weight if necessary.
What medications that can relieve you and treat the problem?
There are various effective counter products to relieve your symptoms and treat your hemorrhoid problem:

    water witch hazel compresses (Tucks®) help relieve discomfort, burning and itching caused by hemorrhoids;
    local anesthetics (Anusol Plus®, Nupercainal® etc.) relieve pain momentarily but quickly;
    astringent agents (gel Preparation H®, etc.) protect the area of ​​irritation, reduce inflammation and relieve burning and itching;
    protective agents (Preparation H® cream, ointment or suppository, etc.) form a barrier on the skin and reduce inflammation;
    anti-inflammatory agents (Cortate®, etc.) relieve itching and reduce inflammation of the external hemorrhoids;
    wet towels (wet towels Cottonelle®, etc.) can be used after every stool to clean the area and avoid infections;
    if the pain is too uncomfortable, pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®, Atasol®, etc.) or ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, etc.) can relieve you and complement the action of topical medications.
In the case of external hemorrhoids, formulation ointment or cream should be preferred to suppositories, since they are housed too deep inside the rectum.
When they get complicated, hemorrhoids can lead to more serious problems such as heavy bleeding, infection or thrombosis. If such problems arise or if hemorrhoids persist beyond seven days, consult a doctor.
If you have questions about the prevention and treatment of hemorrhoids, do not hesitate to consult your pharmacist.