Hemorrhoids, also widely known as piles, are blood vessels that are part of the muscles making up the walls of the anus and rectum. It will be wrong to say that hemorrhoids are abnormal as it is part of the anatomy. However, when the hemorrhoids swell, it is a reflection of a problem. When too much of pressure is exerted on the small vessels that makeup hemorrhoids, they tend to increase in size and encompass excess of blood.

Hemorrhoids are either caused on the inside or outside the anus. Internal hemorrhoids develop around the inside lining of the anus and rectum and are only felt when they are very severe. In most cases, these kinds of hemorrhoids are only apparent during bowel movements as they cause bleeding. Internal hemorrhoids may also protrude and feel like moist pink skin. This causes pain around the anus; however, these hemorrhoids recede into the rectum after a while. External hemorrhoids, however, can be seen and felt during the course of passing stools. They are lower than the anus and are extremely painful as they can develop blood clots within. It is also likely to profusely bleed during the bowel movement routine. Therefore, it is essential to adopt one of some of the best hemorrhoid remedies available in the market.

Both men and women are at the risk of suffering from this condition. A prevalence of hemorrhoid is likely to be seen among people who are above the age of 40.

What are the causes of hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are caused by several factors and the lifestyle one leads can greatly impact the condition.

Diet – The diet followed by an individual not only determines the overall health of a person but can have a big role to play in causing and preventing hemorrhoids. Low-fiber consumption leads to excess strain during the passing of stools. Thus, exerting pressure on the blood vessels and muscles around the anus.

Pregnancy – Pregnancy leads to several changes in a woman’s body. The hormonal changes cause the muscles around the rectum to weaken. Also, the uterus begins to swell during the pregnancy period and can exert pressure around and on the anus and rectum.

Obesity – Obesity is related to excess deposition of fat in the body. The excess fat leads to pressure on the muscles and veins around the rectum and anus, causing the condition.

Apart from the above common causes, prolonged sitting, colon cancer, rectal surgery and family history too can cause hemorrhoids.

Symptoms indicating hemorrhoids
The most common sign that points toward hemorrhoids is bleeding. This bleeding may not cause pain in the beginning. An individual may see blood outside the anus, the stool, and drops dripping into the toilet and toilet paper. There is immense itching around the anal area. This itching increases with each passing day.

The best hemorrhoid remedies and practices for quick relief
Hemorrhoids is traumatizing because of the pain and discomfort it brings. Here are the some of best hemorrhoid remedies to try at home.

Aloe vera – Aloe vera is lauded since ancient times for its medicinal properties. This plant has anti-inflammatory properties that are known to soothe inflammations and other skin conditions. One can purchase aloe vera gel from a drug store or easily source it from the inside of an aloe vera plant’s leaves. It is best to use pure or organic aloe vera gel. Some people may also be allergic to aloe vera, and thus, testing it on a small patch of skin prior to using it on hemorrhoids is safer.

Cold pack – Cold compresses are very effective in relieving the swelling and inflammation around the anus. This is one of the best hemorrhoid remedies to practice at home. Ice should be wrapped in a cloth and applied to the anus. Applying ice or anything frozen directly to the skin can aggravate the condition.

Mild wipes – Hemorrhoids can get further inflamed due to use of dry toilet paper after a bowel movement. Swap tissue paper for mild wipes that contain soothing ingredients. It is essential to ensure that the wipe used do not have irritants that aggravate the condition.

Stool softeners – For people who suffer from chronic constipation, stool softeners can help. These softeners include supplements that soften the stool and allow a soother bowel movement. Stool softeners come in the form of liquids and capsules, one can consume these depending on the requirement.

To fasten the healing process, the area around the anus should be kept hygienic at all times. Clean the anus with warm water and a mild soap during a shower and after a few hours during the day.

In cases where even the best hemorrhoid remedies do not help, it is essential to get treated by a doctor. Depending on the condition, the doctor will have to use an injection therapy to reduce the size of hemorrhoid.