Hemorrhoids occur when the veins around the anus become swollen and protrude. Lifting heavy objects, sitting for long stretches of time, constipation, and diarrhea can cause this problem. There are three different types of hemorrhoids: external, internal, and prolapsed. Luckily, there are medications that you can use to shrink your hemorrhoids and get back to life as usual.
Medications
Over-the-counter medications come in two forms for hemorrhoids, ointments and suppositories. Tucks or Preparation H come in a tube with a long applicator. The best method to inject the ointment is to relax and insert the applicator into the anus. Do not squeeze too much or it will fall out. Use at night for best results. Refrain from using longer than 7 days. If symptoms like burning, itching and bleeding still persist, call your doctor. Petroleum jelly and zinc oxide have proven results for reducing itching and burning. Take pain relievers like Tylenol, Valadol or Datril to deal with the pain. Avoid ibuprofen and aspirin, because they will promote bleeding.
Natural Cures
Some of the chemicals in conventional hemorrhoid medication can cause skin irritation. If you are worried, your best bet is to try a natural cure. Apply aloe vera gel to the protruding veins. The natural soothing properties of the plant should work right away. A wide variety of salves are popular for treating hemorrhoids like myrrh, goldenseal root, and bayberry. Take a clean cotton ball and soak in witch hazel. Place it on the inflamed vein three times a day. Changing your diet is also beneficial. Eat meals full of fiber such as legumes, broccoli, whole grains, and apples. Avoid foods that can irritate the digestive tract like red meat, alcohol, caffeine, and fatty foods. Take 1 tbsp. of flax seed oil to soften your stools.
Treatments
In some cases, a more intrusive approach needs to be taken when treating hemorrhoids. Infrared photocoagulation uses infrared heat to treat less severe hemorrhoids. Ligation requires a rubber band to tied at the base of the internal hemorrhoid until the blood circulation stops and the blood vessel and rubber band get expelled in the waste. Sometimes surgery is recommended for those who have a very severe condition or are losing a lot of blood. There are a variety of treatments for you to choose to cure your hemorrhoid. Try to prevent further hemorrhoids by learning how to lift heavy objects, refraining from sitting on hard surfaces, and getting plenty of exercise.