Hemorrhoids don't have to be an embarrassing and uncomfortable problem. You can treat them at home, and in many cases, hemorrhoid home treatment is just as effective as treatment by a doctor. You'll need to know what causes the condition, what can make it worse, and how to change your behavior to make it better. Here's some information that can help.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum. Reducing the swelling will help them heal, and eventually disappear. They come in two kinds - internal and external, and may go for a long time before they're discovered.

That's because internal ones are often painless until the bleed or are pushed outside the body. If you suffer from constipation, both of these are more likely to occur. Making sure your diet consists of plenty of fiber and staying away from foods that cause constipation can be a big help in preventing hemorrhoids.

External hemorrhoids are more likely to be painful or itchy. However, correct hemorrhoid home treatment can help you shrink them and prevent this problem. Of course, prevention is the best medicine in all cases, and you can keep from having this problem if you know how to treat your body. Changing a couple of things can make a big difference in preventing hemorrhoids.

Avoid sitting or standing in the same position for long periods, sitting on the toilet for a long time, and becoming either constipated or having loose stools. Those things will help you avoid getting an uncomfortable problem that won't go away.

Even after following preventative measures, you may find yourself with hemorrhoids. Here's a few things you can do if you do have a case of them. Fifteen to twenty minute periods of sitting in a warm bathtub, several times each day, can help shrink hemorrhoids, as can similar periods of ice pack application. You need to keep the affected both clean and dry but it's important not to use too much soap. Clean the area with water and pat it dry gently - this is delicate skin. Consider using moistened paper or wipes in the bathroom, instead of irritating toilet paper.

Remember, if you're using a home hemorrhoid treatment and you don't see results in a short period of time, you may have a bigger problem. Don't just forget about the problem because of potential embarrassment. You can visit your doctor, but keep in mind that he or she will likely just prescribe something. Natural treatments are always best, and you should try them before resorting to over the counter treatments and physician visits, but don't rule the doctor out if the problem gets worse. No matter what, make sure you do something about your hemorrhoids! You'll have a much better day and be in a lot less pain.