It is important to seek medical advice for severe piles, as they can cause significant pain and discomfort and may require medical intervention. A piles doctor may recommend treatments such as medication, surgery, or minimally invasive procedures to alleviate symptoms and reduce the risk of complications.
However, home remedies for piles can be a useful and effective treatment option for mild piles. In many cases, lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, drinking more water, and regular exercise can improve symptoms and prevent future flare-ups. Natural remedies such as witch hazel, aloe vera, warm baths, and essential oils can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation.
It’s essential to monitor symptoms and seek medical advice if they persist or worsen, as untreated piles can lead to complications such as anemia, infection, or blood clots. However, natural remedies can safely and effectively manage symptoms and promote healing for mild cases.
1. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that is derived from the leaves and bark of the witch hazel plant. It contains tannins with astringent properties that can help shrink swollen blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
When applied topically to piles, witch hazel can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, burning, and pain. It can also help reduce inflammation and swelling, improving overall comfort.
To apply witch hazel to piles, soak a cotton ball or pad in witch hazel and apply it directly to the affected area. A high-quality, alcohol-free witch hazel product is essential, as alcohol can dry and irritate the skin. Repeat this process as needed throughout the day, taking care not to rub or scratch the affected area further.
Overall, witch hazel is a natural remedy that can relieve the discomfort and pain associated with piles, making it a popular choice among those looking for natural alternatives to traditional medications. However, it’s essential to consult a healthcare provider before using any new treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a pre-existing medical condition.
2. Aloe Vera:
Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and soothing effects. It contains compounds such as acemannan, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce swelling and pain.
Aloe vera can help alleviate symptoms such as itching and burning and reduce inflammation and swelling when applied topically to piles. It can also help moisturize the skin, promoting healing and reducing discomfort.
To apply aloe vera to piles, use fresh aloe vera gel directly from the plant or use an over-the-counter aloe vera cream or ointment. Apply the gel or cream to the affected area as needed throughout the day, not rubbing or irritating the skin.
In addition to topical use, aloe vera can be consumed as a juice. Aloe vera juice has been shown to have a mild laxative effect, which can help alleviate constipation and promote regular bowel movements, reducing the risk of developing piles. However, it’s important to consume aloe vera juice in moderation and only use products specifically labeled for internal use.
Overall, aloe vera is a natural remedy that can relieve the discomfort and pain associated with piles. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any new treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a pre-existing medical condition.
3. Warm Baths
Soaking in warm water is a simple and effective way to relieve pain and itching associated with piles. The warm water helps increase blood flow to the affected area, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. It can also help to relax the muscles in the anus, which can help reduce discomfort and pain.
To take a warm bath for piles, fill a bathtub with enough warm water to cover the hips and buttocks. Soak in the water for 15-20 minutes, taking care not to use hot water, which can further irritate the affected area. After soaking, gently pat the area dry with a soft towel.
You can add Epsom salt or baking soda to the bathwater for relief. Epsom salt contains magnesium sulfate, which can help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Baking soda has alkaline properties, which can help to soothe the skin and relieve itching.
To add Epsom salt or baking soda to the bathwater, dissolve one cup of either product in the warm water before entering. Soak in the bath as described above.
Overall, warm baths are a simple and effective way to relieve pain and itching associated with piles. Adding Epsom salt or baking soda can provide added relief and promote healing. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before using any new treatment, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a pre-existing medical condition.
4. High-Fibre Diet
A high-fiber diet is essential for preventing and treating piles. Fibre is a carbohydrate that is not digested by the body but instead passes through the digestive system largely intact. It adds bulk to the stool, making it easier to pass, reducing the strain on the rectum and anus, and decreasing the likelihood of developing piles.
Fibre also promotes bowel regularity and prevents constipation, a leading cause of piles. When stool remains in the digestive system for an extended period, it can become hard and dry, making it more difficult to pass and leading to straining during bowel movements.
To increase fiber intake, it’s essential to include foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in the diet. These foods are fiber-rich and help promote regular bowel movements, reducing the likelihood of developing piles.
Some examples of high-fiber foods include:
- Fruits such as apples, bananas, berries, oranges, and pears
- Vegetables such as broccoli, carrots, spinach, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes
- Whole grains such as brown rice, oatmeal, quinoa, and whole-wheat bread and pasta
- Legumes such as lentils, chickpeas, black beans, and kidney beans
Overall, a high-fiber diet is essential for preventing and treating piles. It’s vital to drink plenty of water when increasing fiber intake, as fiber absorbs water and can lead to constipation if not consumed with enough fluids. It’s also important to consult with a healthcare provider before making any significant changes to the diet, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
5. Hydration
Staying hydrated is crucial to prevent and relieve piles. Water is essential to keep the stool soft and prevent constipation, which can reduce pressure on the rectum and anus, decreasing the likelihood of developing piles.
When the body is dehydrated, the colon absorbs more water from the stool, leading to harder and drier stools that are more challenging to pass. Straining during bowel movements can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, making them more likely to develop piles.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help prevent dehydration and ensure the stool remains soft and passable. The amount of water needed varies from person to person, but a general guideline is to drink at least eight glasses (64 ounces) of water per day. Drinking more water when exercising or in hot weather is important, which can increase fluid loss.
Other fluids like herbal tea, fruit juice, and broth can help keep the body hydrated. However, it’s essential to avoid drinks that can dehydrate the body, such as coffee, tea, and alcohol.
In summary, staying hydrated is essential for preventing and relieving piles. Drinking plenty of water and other fluids can help prevent constipation, reduce pressure on the rectum and anus, and promote healing. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to fluid intake, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
6. Exercise
Regular exercise can help prevent piles by improving circulation and reducing the risk of constipation.
When you exercise, your heart pumps more blood throughout the body, improving circulation to the rectal area. This increased blood flow can help strengthen the veins in the rectum and anus, reducing the likelihood of developing piles.
Exercise can also help prevent constipation, a significant risk factor for piles. Constipation can lead to straining during bowel movements, increasing pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, which can cause rises. Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements and improve digestion, preventing constipation and reducing the risk of developing piles.
Some exercises that can be beneficial for preventing piles include walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling. These activities can help improve circulation and promote healthy bowel movements. It’s also important to avoid exercises that may strain the rectal area, such as heavy weightlifting or exercises that involve holding your breath.
In summary, regular exercise can help prevent piles by improving circulation to the rectal area and reducing the risk of constipation. Incorporating walking, jogging, swimming, and cycling into your routine can help prevent piles and promote overall health. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise routine, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition.
7. Essential oils
Essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil have natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with piles.
Tea tree oil is a potent antiseptic and anti-inflammatory oil that can help reduce swelling and inflammation. It also has natural antibacterial and antifungal properties that can help prevent infection. To use tea tree oil for piles, dilute a few drops in carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply topically to the affected area.
Lavender oil is a soothing oil that can help reduce pain and inflammation. It also has natural antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles in the rectal area, reducing discomfort. To use lavender oil for piles, mix a few drops with carrier oil and apply topically to the affected area.
Peppermint oil is a cooling oil that can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It also has natural analgesic and antispasmodic properties that can help relax the muscles in the rectal area. To use peppermint oil for piles, dilute a few drops in carrier oil and apply topically to the affected area.
It’s important to note that essential oils should always be diluted in carrier oil before use and should not be applied directly to the skin. Essential oils can also cause allergic reactions in some people, so it’s important to do a patch test before use and consult a healthcare provider if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking medications.
In summary, essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, and peppermint oil can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with piles. These oils should always be diluted in a carrier oil before use and used cautiously, especially if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are taking medications.
It’s important to note that severe cases of piles may require medical treatment such as laparoscopic surgery, piles laser treatment, etc., and it’s important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. However, these natural remedies can often treat mild patient piles at home.
In summary, home remedies for piles, such as witch hazel, aloe vera, warm baths, a high-fiber diet, hydration, exercise, and essential oils can effectively treat piles at home. These natural remedies are often used for relieving symptoms of piles, but it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for severe cases and use these remedies cautiously. Home remedies for hemorrhoids can relieve and reduce discomfort, but in persistent hemorrhoids, you may need piles treatment at home under medical supervision.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of piles, talk to our doctor to determine the best course of action and explore piles remedies that can work for you.
