Over half of adults over 50 years old have hemorrhoids. Treatment of this inconvenient condition is complicated by the associated pain, itching, and bleeding. However, there are plenty of effective treatments out there to help give you some relief from hemorrhoids. Many of these include changes to your lifestyle and home remedies. This article is packed with information and advice to help you deal with hemorrhoids.

If you are dealing with the discomfort of hemorrhoids, there may be relief available to you. Sitz baths are very helpful. You can sit in one many times each day for several minutes each time. Try using a cold compress on the area of inflammation for some additional relief.

One tip to ease hemorrhoid pain is to alternately apply a cold pack and a heat pack. Alternating between ice and heat helps minimize the size of the hemorrhoid and helps it to heal. You should put ice on the hemorrhoid for about 10 minutes daily, then use moist heat for about 20 minutes.

Drinking plenty of water can help to reduce the symptoms and growth of hemorrhoids. Your stools will be softer if you are hydrated. You should avoid alcohol and caffeine.

Bread made of whole wheat is good to eat because it aids digestion and helps hemorrhoid issues. Easier bowel movements mean less irritation. The next time you make a sandwich, go with wheat bread instead!

Give some natural remedies a try before you spend money on pricey hemorrhoid treatments. After you have a bowel movement, soak for about 15 minutes in a sitz bath. Never scratch your hemorrhoids, no mater how much they itch, because this can aggravate the condition. Try using a bit of witch hazel on a cotton pad to help relieve the itch. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and eat foods that are high in fiber. This will prevent excessive straining during a bowel movement.

Always refrain from scratching hemorrhoids, much as you would with any other type of infection. It is important not to scratch, however, because you could open up a wound. If they rip open they can be more painful, and you could get a bacterial infection.

Heavy lifting could cause hemorrhoids. When you lift something heavy, you strain your body in the same way as you do when you struggle to have a bowel movement. If you’re getting hemorrhoids regularly, it’s best that you stop lifting heavy objects as much as you can.

If you think you might be constipated, try taking a walk prior to going to the restroom. A brisk walk will stimulate the systems of the body to function properly and help you go more easily. You could stop unnecessary straining that would make your hemorrhoids worse or irritated by doing this. Walk briskly for 10-15 minutes if at all possible.

Now that you’ve found some helpful tips and advice regarding hemorrhoids, it’s time to treat them. You will find that home treatments are effective and can alleviate the need for surgery. Learning as much as you can about causes and therefore prevention along with treatments you can do at home will ensure that you can treat your problem in the privacy of your own home.