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.

What is a Hemorrhoid?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins of inflamed hemorrhoids tissues in our rectum. Inflammation of these veins can occur both on the outside and inside of the anal canal lining. When too much pressure or strain brought about by pregnancy, obesity, constipation, and too much weight is exerted by the anal part of our body, swelling occurs.

There are generally two classifications of hemorrhoids: the internal and the external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are found inside the anal canal. External hemorrhoids are those that are found a little below the outer part of the anal skin.

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 can we cure hemorrhoids? Are over the counter hemorrhoids treatment advisable?

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.

For the more serious hemorrhoids condition, surgery and rubber band ligation may be called for. Surgery is done by scraping off the protruding hemorrhoid tissue, the procedure being called hemorrhoidectomy. Rubber band ligation is another solution to severe hemorrhoids condition. This is a non-surgical procedure done by having a rubber band tied around the inflamed tissue to decrease the blood circulation in the area and prevent or decrease more inflammation.

Prevention is still better than cure. Hemorrhoids, for some, are still best prevented by living a healthy lifestyle such as maintaining proper diet, posture and regular bowel movement. Eating healthy food rich in fiber and drinking at least eight glasses of water every day help detoxify and aid our body with bowel movement. Constipation and straining to relieve the body of waste would only worsen any existing hemorrhoids condition. Regular exercise also help prevent hemorrhoids as it increases blood circulation which is, again, necessary for regular and smooth bowel movement. Exercise also help prevent obesity which is another cause of hemorrhoids.