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Home Remedy for Internal Hemorrhoids

Treating the discomfort and pain associated with internal hemorrhoids involves implementing dietary prevention tools, methods for treating the discomfort of hemorrhoids and methods for cleansing the affected area after each bowel movement. Home-remedy methods for treating internal hemorrhoids are less expensive than medical or surgical treatment, as well as less embarrassing than medical or surgical treatment.

  1. Dietary Fiber

    • Increasing dietary fiber is beneficial for treating internal hemorrhoids by reducing and treating constipation. Constipation can lead to straining to pass hard, dry stool from the rectum. Excessive straining during a bowel movement strains the blood vessels in the anal canal, which leads to hemorrhoids.

      According to a 2009 study published by the Mayo Clinic, men age 50 and under should try to eat 38 grams of fiber each day, while men age 51 and older should try to eat 30 grams of fiber each day. Women age 50 and under should consume 25 grams of fiber each day, while women over age 51 should consume 21 grams of fiber each day.

      Excellent sources of dietary fiber include green vegetables and fruits such as apples. Dietary fiber also can be found in the form of supplements such as Metamucil, Benefiber and FiberCon.

    Cleanliness

    • Keep the anal area clean and dry after each bowel movement. According to a 2009 study published by the American College of Gastroenterology, you should use medicated wipes, or cotton balls or toilet paper coated with witch hazel to thoroughly cleanse the anal area after a bowel movement. The soothing properties of witch hazel will reduce the discomfort of itching and swelling, while the witch hazel will begin to heal the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. Gently pat the area dry after cleansing.

    Sitz Bath

    • According to a November 2009 study published by the Mayo Clinic, sitting in the bathtub in lukewarm water that covers only the hips and buttocks will cleanse the anal area and relieve swelling of internal hemorrhoids. Warm water will cleanse the anal region, and the salt will reduce the discomfort, swelling and itching around the anal area. Use the sitz bath for 15 minutes twice a day to relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids.

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