Silver Cure for Hemorrhoids

Painful, embarrassing and highly undesirable--there are few things less attractive than hemorrhoids. Because hemorrhoid treatments often don't provide for a quick fix, some desperate and weary sufferers look for new options. Colloidal silver has been receiving attention as a natural alternative cure to hemorrhoids. Is it?

Colloidal Silver

• Colloidal silver is small particles of pure silver suspended in a liquid. Manufacturers and sellers of colloidal silver claim it can cure hemorrhoids, fight infections, treat burns and perform similarly to an antibiotic. According to Dr. Brent Bauer of the Mayo Clinic, not only is there no proof that that colloidal silver works, but actually there is evidence that it causes long-term damage.

The Treatment

• In theory, orally consuming colloidal silver on a regular basis will cure hemorrhoids. In reality, the only silver-based product that may help with hemorrhoids may be silver nitrate, which cauterizes wounds and can help stop the bleeding of a wounded hemorrhoid. Silver nitrate is strictly topical and has well-documented, proven effectiveness.

Warnings

• The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has blocked the sale of colloidal silver in the United States and on occasion has gone after manufacturers and sellers who make medical claims related to colloidal silver.

  Damage is also possible. Ingested silver particles can build up with time and may have effects on kidneys and the liver. In enough quantity, silver caught in the body can cause a poisoning known as argyria, which causes blue and gray discoloration of tissue, including skin, eyes, organs, gums and more. There is no cure for argyria.

  Bottom line: be wary of colloidal silver and consider the serious risks before consuming silver products. If your hemorrhoids are torturing you, consult a physician.