Hemorrhoids, or piles as they are commonly called, are a real pain and can lead surgical treatment in extreme cases. The good news is most cases can be dealt with through simple changes to your diet and exercise routine. Piles are actually vascular tissue in the anus responsible for stool control and only become a problem when they are inflamed.

Types of Hemorrhoids

There are two basic types of piles, internal and external. The difference between the two types is directly related to their location, as you can imagine. Those that occur above the dentate line are considered internal while those that are below it are considered external. What many people fail to realize is that external hemorrhoids are not necessarily outside of the anal cavity or visible.

Causes

Generally, piles are directly related to bowel movements. Constipation and diarrhoea can both contribute to the occurrence of piles. The exact cause of hemorrhoids has not been clearly determined in laboratory testing, however most would concur that pressure during pregnancy, prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements are key components.

Home Remedy

As stated above, most hemorrhoids treatment consists of nothing more than simple dietary changes, or in cases of prolonged sitting an increase in exercise may be warranted. Here are a few things you should consider if you are suffering with hemorrhoids:

• Fiber- increasing your fiber intake will give your stool more bulk and soften it to a degree. This will reduce the need to strain while having a bowel movement.

• Water- keeping yourself properly hydrated will reduce the chances of becoming constipated, another contributor to piles. Drink the recommended daily allowance or a little more if you suffer chronic constipation.

• Diet-do you have frequent bouts of constipation or diarrhoea because of what you eat? Some individuals have problems with dairy products, specific fruits and other foods; eliminate them from your diet.

• Weight- if you needed another incentive to lose weight, piles may be just that. People, who are overweight, as well as pregnant women, have more anal pressure, which can lead to painful hemorrhoids. Losing weight can alleviate this cause.

• Go- Do you frequently find yourself waiting to use the bathroom? Whenever possible you should heed your body’s natural urges rather than waiting, especially if you are suffering from piles.

During a Flare Up

While you are working with these and other remedies for hemorrhoids, you may be wondering how to ease some of your symptoms. Piles are marked by pain, irritation and itching of the anal region. Many people are too embarrassed to talk about this problem with their family physician and simply suffer in silence. Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to ease your discomfort.

• Creams- there are many different creams you can buy over the counter at your local drugstore. These medicated creams soothe the itching and burning associated with hemorrhoids.

• Witch Hazel- if you are still a little shy about purchasing medications witch hazel is a great treatment for piles. Chill it slightly in the refrigerator and apply with cotton ball for the best results.

• Hydrocortisone- a simple cream that can ease itching

• Warm Bath- a soak in the tub can do wonders for many things that ail you, including hemorrhoids.

• Wet Wipes- they are not just for babies! Wet wipes are gentler than most toilet paper.

Conclusion

If you have suffered for quite some time with hemorrhoids or simply want a treatment for piles with a more permanent result you could consider natural supplements such as Hemocyl. Before you look into a surgical solution, it is a good idea to try the least invasive measures first.