12 Strange but Effective Ways to Treat Hemorrhoids (Read #1 & #3 for Instant Pain Relief)

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No one likes to talk about hemorrhoids. We make jokes about them, but once you get them, you realize they really are no laughing matter. Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, affect as much as 75 percent of the American population at one time or another, so if you haven’t had them yet, chances are high that you will.

This very common problem occurs when the veins in the rectum become swollen or inflamed. There are several reasons people develop hemorrhoids: Pregnancy, time (gravity), family history, a low-fiber diet, heavy lifting, prolonged sitting or standing — even food allergies can cause hemorrhoids.

There are two types of hemorrhoids: External, the most common, or internal. External hemorrhoids occur right at the anus and are usually visible. Internal hemorrhoids are just inside the rectum. The most common symptoms are pain when sitting, bleeding during bowel movements, the urge to have a bowel movement when you don’t have to go, and itching and burning sensations. Left untreated, hemorrhoids can lead to anemia due to chronic blood loss, tissue death, and even colorectal or anal cancer.

There are a couple of over-the-counter ointments that are meant to help shrink hemorrhoids, but they can be expensive and often take days to work. It is also embarrassing to wait in line at a busy checkout counter with your little tube of hemorrhoid cream!

Fortunately, you can treat hemorrhoids naturally, inexpensively, and easily by yourself, in the privacy of your own home. Keep reading for the top 12 ways you can stop painful hemorrhoids today.

1. Ice

If you need instant pain relief, try ice. This simple but effective method will help constrict the blood vessels and reduce swelling, which will stop the pain in seconds. Use an ice pack, or put a piece of ice in a washcloth and apply directly to the affected area for 10 minutes. Do this as often as you need or until the hemorrhoid goes away. Don’t have an ice pack available? A bag of frozen peas or corn works just as well. Wrap it in a washcloth or tea towel, and apply it where you need it most.

2. Almond Oil

Almond oil is deeply absorbed into the tissues and skin so it is the best helps with external hemorrhoids. Dip a cotton ball in sweet almond oil and apply it directly to the affected area three or more times each day. This will help lubricate, moisturize, and ease the inflammation in this delicate area.

3. Aloe Vera

This is perhaps one of the best treatments around for hemorrhoids. Aloe vera gel has natural anti-inflammatory and therapeutic compounds that will reduce the irritation.

For treating external hemorrhoids, simply rub some aloe vera gel directly on the hemorrhoid and the surrounding area. This will help stop the itching and burning, and offers some substantial pain relief. Repeat this as often as necessary during the day, and continue for several days until the hemorrhoid has subsided.

For treating internal hemorrhoids, cut a washed aloe vera leaf into thin strips. Be certain to cut off the thorny parts on the leaf. Place these slices in a container and put them in the freezer for an hour or two. Take this frozen strip of aloe vera and put it … well … where you need it!

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