Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids refer to a condition when the veins around the anus or rectum are swollen and inflamed. Hemorrhoids may be caused by straining to pass stool, but some alternative physicians relate hemorrhoids to being a sign the patient has an unhealthy gastrointestinal system, possibly as part of Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

Hemorrhoids are common in both men and women. About half of the population has hemorrhoids by age 50. Hemorrhoids are either inside the anus, called internal or under the skin around the anus and called external.  They may be caused by aging, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and anal intercourse.

Hemorrhoids in pregnancy are also common. The pressure of the fetus on the abdomen, as well as hormonal changes, cause the hemorrhoidal vessels to enlarge. These vessels are also placed under severe pressure during childbirth. For most women, hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy are a temporary problem.

Medical hemorrhoid treatment is usually focused on relieving symptoms. Treatment for hemorrhoids can include tub baths several times a day in plain, warm water for about 10 minutes or application of a hemorrhoidal cream or suppository to the affected area for a limited time. In severe cases hemorrhoid surgery may be necessary.

Natural hemorrhoid treatment centers focus on sufficient water and fiber intake and reducing the straining associated with bowel movements. Unsuccessful natural treatment for hemorrhoids may require hemorrhoid surgery. This allows for hemorrhoid removal then creating hemorrhoid relief.  

A proven successful solution for them can be to improve the health of the gastrointestinal system. If hemorrhoids are related to IBS with either constipation or diarrhea help for IBS will be found by re-establishing beneficial bacterial balances which are altered by antibiotics and other lifestyle choices.  This will restore bowel chemistry and temporary dietary changes and could be the foundation of your hemorrhoid treatment.

One extra bit of advice found to be surprisingly helpful is to go to your local health food store and look for a homeopathic remedy for hemorrhoids. This will be found in 1 ounce liquid or tablets. Purchase any of the liquid remedies and use them for one month. Follow the additional advice from Dr. Prater and restore balance and health to your system. Use the homeopathic remedy for a 2nd month if necessary.