Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus. Depending on the severity of the inflammation, there may be a great deal of swelling present, which only serves to make the situation more painful. Fortunately, there are different types of hemorrhoid remedy strategies that can ease pain and promote healing in just about any case.
The first line of defense is the use of over the counter ointments, creams, and medicated pads. The different types of hemorrhoid remedy products available over the counter usually contain ingredients like hydrocortisone or witch hazel. Both these can help ease the pain caused by the inflammation, as well as ease the itching that is often present with hemorrhoids. Keep in mind that some people have an allergic reaction to hydrocortisone or witch hazel; if the itching gets worse, discontinue the use of these products immediately and seek professional medical attention.
When over the counter medications don’t bring the hemorrhoids under control, there is a chance that a clot has developed within one or more hemorrhoids. When this is the case, a physician may choose to try some type of minimally invasive procedure to provide relief. Among the different types of hemorrhoid remedy approaches in this category, sclerotherapy is a common option. This involves injecting a solution into the hemorrhoid tissue to facilitate the shrinking of the inflamed veins and allow the collected blood to be reabsorbed into the system.
When sclerotherapy does not work, the use of a process known as rubber band ligation is often employed. This involves placing small rubber bands around the base of each hemorrhoid, effectively cutting off circulation. The hemorrhoids will wither and drop off in a mater of days. While extremely uncomfortable at first, the pain begins to ease as the hemorrhoids begin to die and drop off.
At times, it is necessary to employ different types of hemorrhoid remedy therapy that are more intense. Surgical procedures like a hemorrhoidectomy may be necessary when other approaches fail to bring about relief and healing. With a hemorrhoidectomy, the surgeon removes the hemorrhoids. In order to keep the patient comfortable during the procedure, it is not unusual for some type of sedation as well as use a spinal or general anesthetic. Painkillers help to ease the pain during recovery, along with taking a soothing warm bath two or three times a day.
For mild cases of hemorrhoids, it may be possible to avoid the use of over the counter ointments or any more aggressive treatments by simply employing a couple of home remedies. The different types of hemorrhoid remedy solutions that belong in this category include the use of ice packs to alleviate swelling, the use of moist towelettes instead of toilet paper to keep the anal area clean, and liberal use of aloe vera gel to keep the skin from drying out. Should the home remedies not produce results in a few days, don’t hesitate to see a doctor.
