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Natural Remedies for Hemorrhoids

By Cathy Wong, About.com

Updated: October 26, 2007

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by our Medical Review Board

6) Other Natural Remedies

Triphala. An Ayurvedic compound of three fruits. It is well-known as a bowel tonic that gently relieves constipation without being a harsh stimulant.

Topical application of chamomile or calendula. Can be applied as a compress or ointment.

Prevention of Hemorrhoids

The three basics that may reduce hemorrhoids symptoms are:

  • Adequate water intake (a minimum of six glasses a day)
  • Adequate fiber in the diet
  • Exercise

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

  • Constipation. One of the top causes of hemorrhoids is constipation. Straining puts greater pressure on these veins.
  • Pregnancy. Hemorrhoids are a common problem caused by hormonal changes and increased pressure by the growing fetus, which forces the veins to work harder to pump blood.
  • Chronic venous insufficiency. Hemorrhoids can be a sign of general weakness in the veins. Contributing factors are standing or sitting for long periods, being overweight, not exercising enough, and smoking.
  • Inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease may be the underlying cause of hemorrhoids.
  • Portal hypertension. Increased pressure within the portal vein blood from the intestines to the liver. A condition called liver cirrhosis is the most common cause.
  • Aging. Starting in the thirties, there is a progressive weakening of the support structures in the area.

Getting Diagnosed

A thorough evaluation and proper diagnosis by the doctor is important any time bleeding from the rectum or blood in the stool occurs. Bleeding may also be a symptom of other digestive diseases, including colorectal cancer.


Sources

Alonso-Coello P, Guyatt G, Heels-Ansdell D, Johanson J, Lopez-Yarto M, Mills E, Zhou Q, Alonso-Coello P. Laxatives for the treatment of hemorrhoids. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2005 Oct 19;(4):CD004649.

Meshikhes AW. Daflon for haemorrhoids: a prospective, multi-centre observational study. Surgeon. 2004 Dec;2(6):335-8, 361.
Cathy Wong
Guide since 2000

Cathy Wong
Alternative Medicine Guide

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