Hemorrhoids are extremely irritating medical problems commonly affecting most adults. They normally occur in or around the anal and rectal areas. Hemorrhoids are veins in the anal cushion that have become swollen or inflamed and they are sometimes called piles as well. When you experience the most common symptoms such as itching, burning, bleeding, or pain then it is imperative that you find an effective cure for hemorrhoids as soon as possible.

Irregular bowel movement, constipation, pregnancy and being overweight are among the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Aging, lack of exercise, improper diet and sitting or standing for a prolonged period of time are also risk factors. This condition occurs when the blood vessels that line the anus – the anal cushions – become enlarged and lose the support that they normally get from rectal muscles. These muscles are weakened by constant pressure brought about by any of the above causes and when they can no longer support the blood vessels, sac-like protrusions develop either inside the rectal canal or under the skin in the anal area.

Hemorrhoids that develop inside the rectal canal are called internal hemorrhoids and when it pushes out of a person’s anal opening then it is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid. On the other hand, hemorrhoids that develop around the anus are called external hemorrhoids. When blood pools in an external hemorrhoid, it is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Initial treatment and cure for hemorrhoids are aimed at relieving the symptoms and there are several home remedies that have been proven effective against this condition.

The most popular cure for hemorrhoids is a sitz bath taken several times a day for about ten minutes each time. This is done simply by drawing about three inches of warm water and sitting on it. It is also advisable to sit on an ice pack right after a sitz bath in order to quickly reduce the swelling of your hemorrhoids. For external hemorrhoids you may also apply hemorrhoidal creams or petroleum jelly and take aspirin or acetaminophen.

To prevent the condition from recurring you should also make some habit changes like switching to cotton underwear and patting the anus gently with moistened pads after bowel movement instead of wiping it with rough toilet paper. You should also increase your intake of water and dietary fiber in order to soften the stool and prevent too much straining during bowel movement. An increase in physical activity or regular exercise also does wonders in strengthening the rectal muscles.

If your condition does not improve with these home remedies then it is best to consult your doctor as you may have to undergo hospital treatment or hemorrhoidal surgery. Remember as well that bleeding can be a symptom of other medical conditions such as anal fissures or colorectal cancer so if you see blood on your stool do not immediately assume that you have hemorrhoids. Instead, consult your doctor immediately to make sure that your condition is diagnosed properly and that the correct treatment will be given.