Customer question:
What are the most common remedies - especially home remedies for hemorrhoid relief? Anonymous customer.
Pharmacist's answer:
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum that can cause pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. We distinguish between internal and external hemorrhoids.
Internal hemorrhoids occur in the rectum and are usually not seen or felt. External hemorrhoids occur on the outside of the anus. Hemorrhoids usually disappear on their own within a few days or weeks, but they can cause mild to severe discomfort - pain.
In the paragraphs below, you can read some common home remedies that can help relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
A warm bath with Epsom salt
Warm baths can help relieve irritation and itching. Try a warm or sitz bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement. Adding Epsom salt to a warm bath can provide additional relief and consequent pain reduction.
Cold compresses
Apply ice packs or cold compresses to the anal area for 15 minutes to reduce swelling. Cold compresses can be an extremely effective treatment method for large, painful hemorrhoids. Don't forget to wrap the ice in a cloth or paper towel. Never apply ice directly to the skin, as you can damage it.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera gel is widely used to treat many skin conditions. However, use only pure aloe vera gel for hemorrhoids, as other ingredients and additives can irritate hemorrhoids.
Soothing, moisturizing wipes
Using toilet paper after a bowel movement can irritate existing hemorrhoids. Soothing, moisturizing wipes ensure proper cleansing without causing further irritation. You can also use wipes that contain soothing ingredients such as witch hazel or aloe vera. Make sure the wipes do not contain alcohol, perfume, or other irritants.
Loose cotton clothing
Replace tight polyester clothing with breathable cotton (especially cotton underwear) clothing. This can help reduce symptoms and reduce the risk of open wound infections. Avoid using scented detergents or fabric softeners to reduce irritation.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil can relieve hemorrhoid problems through regular consumption or external application. For example, you can cook with coconut oil and contribute to better digestion (against constipation), apply it to external hemorrhoids with cotton wool, or add it to a warm bath.
Hamamelis
Hamamelis, or Virginia witch hazel, is a type of flowering shrub. Use witch hazel extract directly on hemorrhoids by adding a small amount to a cotton ball and gently wiping the affected area several times a day, especially after a bowel movement.
Hamelis should not be diluted with alcohol, as it can further dry out and irritate hemorrhoids.
Interesting reading: Hemorrhoids symptoms
Interesting reading: Hemorrhoids pain relief
