You may think hemorrhoids are a problem of the modern world, born of our refined diet and sedentary ways. And it’s true they’re one of the most common problems doctors encounter today. But while our “civilized” lifestyle certainly contributes to the condition, people have been suffering from hemorrhoids, or “piles” as they used to be called, for centuries. And then as now, the cause and best remedies remain the same.

In this article, we will look at alternative treatments for hemorrhoids and how to control them through the choices you make in your diet. First, though, we will provide an overview of this painful condition:

It’s All About Pressure

The cause of hemorrhoids is stress on the veins in the rectum. That pressure can come from many sources, including standing upright for long periods; pregnancy; straining or pushing because of constipation, diarrhea, or trying to force a bowel movement; sitting too long; obesity; and even prolonged coughing and sneezing.

Too much pressure can cause veins in the rectum and anus to swell and stretch out of shape. Internal hemorrhoids form just under the tissue that lines the inside of the rectum. They are not visible unless they become so big they prolapse, or fall down and protrude through the anus.

External hemorrhoids form outside the rectum, in the veins surrounding the anus. Either type of hemorrhoid can bleed, although external ones are more prone to bleeding, because they’re easily irritated. The itching, burning, and pain typically associated with hemorrhoids result from the external variety. If an internal hemorrhoid develops a fissure — a tear or ulcer in the anal canal — or forms a blood clot, it can cause severe pain. But normally, internal hemorrhoids don’t burn or itch, because there are no nerve endings in the lining of the rectum. Indeed, in 1991 the Food and Drug Administration banned 30 over-the-counter hemorrhoid preparations from the market as unsafe or ineffective because they were purportedly designed to relieve discomfort inside the rectum. Now, products must be labeled “for external use only.”

Almost all rectal bleeding is due to hemorrhoids, but because such bleeding can, in rare instances, signal other serious disease, notably colon cancer, you should always consult a doctor if you spot blood in the toilet or on the toilet tissue after you wipe if that bleeding lasts more than a day. External hemorrhoids are easily diagnosed, but to detect internal hemorrhoids, a doctor may need to use a special instrument called a proctoscope to look inside the rectum.

Are your hemorrhoids driving you crazy? If yes, then read on because a natural solution is not far away.

Most of us spend our entire lifetime searching and trying out every option we find for hemorrhoids. We first need to understand how and why they are caused.

Hemorrhoids or piles occur when the veins around the anus become swollen and inflamed. This is the first stage of piles. At this stage, there is only pain. If not resolved they go on to protrude from the rectum and also start bleeding.

The root cause of hemorrhoids is constipation. When we strain for stools there is a lot of pressure on the blood vessels of the rectum. This leads to the formation of piles.

Since we know the cause of it, natural alternatives should be administered accordingly.

There are a lot of herbal formulations which are very effective in improving digestion and facilitating the evacuation of stools that can be taken for longer periods of time as they do not have side effects and are not habit-forming. Once constipation is resolved, hemorrhoids tend to regress on their own.

This should be combined with modifications in diet as well. Food items rich in fiber should be consumed to avoid constipation. 2 liters of water should be consumed per day.

Such a holistic approach to addressing hemorrhoids works wonders.

Constipation is the classic cause of hemorrhoids, but diarrhea can create similar pressure, as well. Both, fortunately, can be treated with a high-fiber diet. Bran, specifically wheat bran, is the time-honored cure-all because it creates a bulky stool.

Also look to other whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and legumes. Add fiber gradually, though, so your body can adjust. If necessary, use an over-the-counter bulk-forming laxative, such as psyllium, but avoid other types of laxatives. It’s best to get fiber from foods.
Drinking adequate fluids is also essential for good bowel function. Drink several cups — six to eight — of water each day. This is especially important if you’re getting more fiber.

Too much fiber can actually cause constipation if you’re not also drinking adequate fluids.
Preventing Hemorrhoids
Eat a high-fiber diet emphasizing wheat bran. Include five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, opt for whole over refined grains, and make beans a mainstay of meals. If necessary, use a bulk softener but not a laxative.

Drink lots of fluids, especially water. Set a goal of six to eight cups each day.
Answer nature’s call without delay whenever possible.
Avoid straining when you’re on the toilet. Wait for the urge to hit before you seat yourself on the “throne.”
Avoid sitting for long periods. Break it up with walks.
Get some physical activity every day.

Practice good hygiene. Wipe well but not excessively. Use water if necessary.
Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable condition — but with the right diet, you may be able to prevent their onset.

Have herpes, HPV, warts, or hemorrhoids? If your doctor’s appointment is still a few days away, do your own investigation of medical conditions, health and disease, and more.

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