Any hemorrhoid problem is painful, but when it comes to external hemorrhoids, there is generally even more pain than internal hemorrhoids tend to cause. Dealing with the pain, itching, tingling, and possibly even bleeding that can occur with external hemorrhoids can actually limit the activities you can participate in and decrease the overall quality of your life. How do you cope with the pain without limiting yourself so much that you miss out on the fun stuff?
Hemorrhoid treatments are available, and some of them can actually be tried without the care of a doctor. Homeopathic remedies and all natural products that you may have around your house may be just the thing to get you living life to the fullest again:
• Witch hazel can be applied to the area for about 10 minutes, a few times a day. This will help reduce any swelling, control pain, and help the damaged tissue to heal.
• Natural over-the-counter creams and ointments may help soothe irritated skin, veins, and tissue. The itching and pain may be reduced by applying the cream or ointment to the area a couple of times a day.
• Drinking apple cider vinegar, 2 tsp to a glass of water, before meals or a few times a day will help your body begin healing the area, and it will reduce swelling.
• Adding fiber to your diet, with the addition of fruits and vegetables and possibly a fiber supplement, will make having a bowel movement easier, and it may help to prevent straining. This will ensure the swelling decreases and the veins heal.
• Using a moist towelette or baby wipes to wipe after a bowel movement, rather than dry, coarse toilet paper, may help speed the healing process.
Taking care of yourself includes all aspects of your health, even hemorrhoids. If there is bleeding, you should see your doctor. There may be something he or she thinks is a better option for your individual condition, such as laser treatment. Hemorrhoids may be painful, and they’re tempting to hide because of the pain, but taking control of it will enable you to live your life to its fullest.