Hemorrhoids are a condition that reveal themselves by abnormal swelling or enlargement of veins in the rectum. They are sometimes external, wherein a hard, painful lump forms around the anus. Or they can be internal, forming deep inside the rectum, and presenting themselves through blood and mucus. They can strike when you least expect them, creating untold worry. Knowing how to treat your hemorrhoids at home and keep them from reoccurring can save you a lot of stress and pain in the future.

Hemorrhoids can stem from various causes, including long periods of sitting or standing, or straining excessively on the toilet. They can be the result of common ailments like diarrhea or constipation, morbid obesity, pregnancy and childbirth. Other causes are the use of rectal suppositories, an obstructed liver, rectal irritation, or excessive pressure on the rectal veins caused by lifting heavy objects. Certain factors such as heredity or a predisposition to weak veins, as well as a deficiency in essential nutrients such as vitamin B6, can also make you more vulnerable to this problem.

There are all sorts of remedies for this ailment, the most popular of which are pharmaceutical products which can be bought without a prescription. However, if you prefer to steer clear of the synthetic ingredients contained in the majority of these products, you may choose to adopt a more natural approach to curing the problem.

As a natural anti-inflammatory solution, a high quality dietary supplement could effectively improve blood flow and help dissolve blood clots that occur with this disorder. Supplements with bioflavonoids are ideal. The antioxidant vitamins C, E, and A, plus vitamin B6 and probiotics can help ease hemorrhoids. Watch what you’re eating, as well. Avoid foods that are high in saturated fat. Eat foods high in vitamins, C, E and K to improve your circulation, in addition to those that contain lots of fiber and bioflavonoids. And drink lots of water. If you are struggling with hemorrhoids and are interested in using a supplement to treat them, get a health care professional’s nod of approval ahead of time to be on the safe side.

Many people prefer to use witch hazel to shrink their veins. This is a natural herb which has astringent properties. Apply as a compress. Witch hazel also comes in the form of tea or ointment. If you purchase the ointment, applying it to the affected area twice a day will offer soothing relief.

Another natural remedy to shrink swollen tissues and manage bleeding is to boil white oak bark and apply it over the affected region. Soaking in warm bath water containing this herb is also effective for relieving inflammation. You can also shop for white oak bark tea or capsules in most health stores, which you can take internally.

Many people who believe they have hemorrhoids opt to use a natural approach to managing the problem. Keep in mind, though, that it’s important that you visit your doctor for an accurate diagnosis, especially if you are experiencing bleeding. It’s essential that you get the advice of a health care professional, since your problems could be a sign of another condition altogether.

There are lots of different ways to treat the pain of hemorrhoids, from natural hemorrhoid treatment to more invasive surgical procedures. Find out which is right for you at Getting Rid of Hemorrhoids.