What are hemorrhoids? How can you get rid of hemorrhoids fast? Discover natural treatments and home remedies to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are normal cushions of tissue that are filled with blood vessels and found at the end of the rectum, just inside the anus. Together with a circular muscle called the anal sphincter, hemorrhoids help control bowel movement. When people say that they “have hemorrhoids,” what they really mean is that their hemorrhoids have become enlarged.

Enlarged hemorrhoids are often associated with symptoms such as itching, mucus discharge or bleeding. Bleeding happens when hard stool damages the thin walls of the blood vessels in hemorrhoids. The two basic types include internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are more common, and external hemorrhoids tend to feel like a large lump around the outside of the anus that can make sitting painful.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

The most common cause of hemorrhoids is straining during bowel movements. Other causes of hemorrhoids include:

• Sitting on the toilet for too long
• A diet that is low in fiber
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Aging
• Pregnancy
• Lifting heavy objects

How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids Fast

There are many effective treatments for hemorrhoids, beginning with home remedies. A diet high in fiber is often the first step in helping treat hemorrhoids at home. Fiber helps make it easier for the body to pass softer stool, which causes less strain and pain.

Your physician may also discuss these other home remedies:

• Take a stool softener or fiber supplement
• Drink plenty of water
• Try not to strain during bowel movements
• Take a warm bath to relieve pain
• Avoid sitting on the toilet for too long
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers
• Try over-the-counter creams or ointments

Surgical Treatment for Hemorrhoids

Today, many minimally invasive surgical options are available to treat hemorrhoids. Your physician will refer you to a surgeon if conservative treatments don’t address your symptoms or if you aren’t a candidate for in-office procedures.

Common surgical procedures to treat hemorrhoids include:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: Large external hemorrhoids or prolapsed hemorrhoids may need to be removed by a surgeon.
• Hemorrhoid stapling: A special stapling tool can remove internal hemorrhoids and pull prolapsed hemorrhoids back into the anus.

Natural Remedies for Hemorrhoids

In addition to home remedies, there are several natural treatments that may help get rid of hemorrhoids fast. These include:

• Witch hazel: This natural astringent can help shrink hemorrhoids.
• Aloe vera: The soothing properties of aloe vera can help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms.
• Butcher’s broom: This herb has anti-inflammatory properties that may reduce swelling.
• Horse chestnut: This herb can improve blood circulation and strengthen blood vessel walls.
• Turmeric: The anti-inflammatory properties of turmeric may help reduce hemorrhoid inflammation.

When to See a Doctor for Hemorrhoids

If home remedies and natural treatments don’t provide relief, it’s time to see a doctor. Schedule an appointment if you experience severe pain, persistent bleeding, or if the hemorrhoids don’t improve within a week.

Your doctor can properly diagnose the type of hemorrhoids you have and recommend the best treatment plan. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to get rid of severe or persistent hemorrhoids.

Preventing Hemorrhoids

The best way to prevent hemorrhoids is to keep your stools soft and avoid straining during bowel movements. Here are some tips to help prevent hemorrhoids:

• Eat a high-fiber diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Avoid sitting on the toilet for too long
• Exercise regularly to promote regular bowel movements
• Use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge
• Avoid heavy lifting, which can strain the veins

By following these guidelines, you can help prevent hemorrhoids and avoid the unpleasant symptoms they can cause. Remember, if home remedies don’t provide relief, it’s important to see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.