Hemorrhoids are something that should be given attention at and be treated right away to prevent prolonged pain and discomfort. There are different ways to treat hemorrhoids, depending on the grade or degree of the hemorrhoids. Some people prefer treating their hemorrhoids using natural methods such as proper diet, regular exercise and proper hygiene. There are also others who resort to drinking of medicated drugs and application of over the counter hemorrhoids treatment such as hemorrhoids cream and ointment. For serious level of hemorrhoids, surgery is the answer.

Hemorrhoids: What it Is

Hemorrhoids occur when there is too much strain and pressure on our rectum caused by constipation, prolonged sitting on the toilet, obesity and too much weight, and pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are actually swollen veins of the hemorrhoids tissues found in our rectum and can affect both the inner and outer lining of our anal canal.

There are two kinds of hemorrhoids: the internal hemorrhoids and the external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are found inside the anal canal, while external hemorrhoids are situated just under below of the anal skin at the outside.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include itchiness in the affected area, burning sensation in the anus, intense pain, irritation and bleeding. These symptoms can put the individual in a very awkward and uncomfortable state.

How are hemorrhoids treated? Are there over the counter hemorrhoids treatment?

Over the counter hemorrhoids treatment are only applicable among small to medium sizes of hemorrhoids. Over the counter hemorrhoids treatment include hemorrhoids cream and ointment, as well as petroleum jelly and other laxatives. Hemorrhoid cream that are antiseptics and hydrocortisone are said to be good in minimizing swelling and irritation.

Pain killers is another form of over the counter hemorrhoids treatment. However, pain killers do not cure and heal the condition itself. It only relieves the symptoms of hemorrhoids such as pain and itchiness.

Aside from over the counter hemorrhoids treatment, there are two other option to treat hemorrhoids: surgery and rubber band ligation. Surgery is a medical procedure done by scraping off the inflamed hemorrhoids tissue. This procedure is called hemorrhoidectomy. Rubber ligation, a non-surgical procedure is done by tying a rubber band around the swollen tissue to reduce the blood circulation to the area, thus, reducing the inflammation.

The best way, really, to prevent hemorrhoids from cropping in after it is being treated is to maintain a healthy lifestyle and proper diet. Drink at least eight glasses of water per day. Aside from the fact that water can help in the proper circulation of blood, water can also be a good factor for smooth digestion of food, which will result to soft stools. Soft stools are needed for proper bowel movement because straining (due to hard bowel brought by constipation) might lead to further complications of the hemorrhoids, such as intense bleeding. Another form of a healthy lifestyle is to eat nutritious foods and to undergo regular physical exercise. Eating leafy vegetables, fruits and other foods rich in fiber can help clean the intestines as well as to have smooth and easy defecation.

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