Self-Help for Hemorhoids

Hemorrhoids are one of the most uncomfortable, embarrassing ailments on earth. Some serious conditions share some of the same symptoms as hemorrhoids, so it is never a good idea to diagnose the condition yourself. If your doctor has diagnosed hemorrhoids, however, there are some things you can do to help in addition to the treatment prescribed.

Hydrate Yourself

Hard stools exacerbate hemorrhoids. Making sure you are drinking enough water will soften your stool and make you a lot more comfortable. Milk, juice, water and soft drinks that don't contain caffeine count toward your daily water quota, but many people make the mistake of including coffee, tea and energy drinks. Not only do these drinks not help hydrate your body, they actually dehydrate it, putting you farther from your hydration goals than you were before you drank them.

Add Fiber to Your Diet

If you don't eat enough fiber, your stools will be small and hard, no matter how much water you drink. A diet too high in meat and not high enough in vegetable matter will have the same effect. This makes your hemorrhoids worse and increases the pain. Fiber absorbs water and makes stools large and soft, making you much more comfortable. Anyone who watches television knows that fiber comes in a jar, but that is only one kind of fiber, and it is well-processed. It is better than no fiber, but you will reap the benefits every day if you get most of your fiber from whole grains and vegetables.

Don't Strain

Hemorrhoids are actually just internal varicose veins. Straining on the toilet is a common cause of both varicose veins and hemorrhoids. In fact, just sitting too long on the ring-shaped toilet seat can make your hemorrhoids worse. If you are unable to go right now, get up and try later. Fortunately, eating more fiber and drinking more water will eliminate constipation for most people and make bowel movements much easier and quicker for nearly everyone.

Try Over-the-Counter Remedies for Temporary Relief

Over-the-counter ointments, wipes and suppositories may provide a measure of relief as you are waiting for your dietary and water-intake changes to take effect. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging and never use the product more often than recommended. If adding sufficient water and fiber to your diet doesn't provide relief within a reasonable period of time, talk to your doctor again.

It is never a good idea to diagnose the condition yourself

by Lee Jameson, Medical writer