What Your BMI Can Tell You About Your Health
Does BMI really hold the key to understanding your health, or is it simply a number? Here’s what your BMI can and can’t reveal about your health and what to do when it’s telling you you’re at risk.
How to Soothe Hemorrhoids at Home
Hemorrhoids, those annoying clumps of swollen veins on your bottom, make it nearly impossible to get through your day comfortably. You shift around in your seat and try to alleviate the itching discreetly, but in the end, you know you need some help.
Dr. Darrien Gaston at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants in Chicago, Illinois, specializes in diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids so you can get back to your carefree life.
However, not all hemorrhoids need professional treatment. Here are Dr. Gaston’s best tips for soothing minor hemorrhoids at home.
Hemorrhoids 101
When you have hemorrhoids, you know it. There’s no mistaking the classic symptoms of anal itching, burning, and pain. If you reach down and touch the area, you’ll feel a firm lump or cluster of lumps that sometimes burst and bleed, especially during a bowel movement.
There are two types: internal hemorrhoids inside your rectum and external hemorrhoids under the skin around your anus.
Anyone can develop hemorrhoids, but you’re most susceptible if you’re pregnant or overweight. Sitting on the toilet too long (we’re looking at you, bathroom readers) and staring when you go can lead to hemorrhoids, too.
Natural at-home treatments for hemorrhoids
Minor hemorrhoids can be a pain, but there are several natural remedies to help soothe the symptoms at home:
Aloe vera
Pure aloe vera gel is known for its potent anti-inflammatory properties and reduces swelling and discomfort. Apply it directly to your external hemorrhoids.
Essential oils
Essential oils, like tea tree and lavender oil, manage inflammation and pain. Mix these oils with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, before applying to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Witch hazel
Known for its astringent properties, witch hazel can help shrink hemorrhoids and relieve pain. Apply it with a cotton ball to the affected area.
Cold compresses
A cold compress or ice pack can reduce inflammation and numb the area, alleviating pain.
Warm baths
Regular sitz baths, where only your hips and buttocks are submerged in warm water, provide immediate relief from hemorrhoid-related itching and pain. Aim for 15-20 minutes several times daily, particularly after bowel movements.
Dietary changes
Eating fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can soften your stool and reduce straining during bowel movements. Also, optimal hydration is crucial, so drink plenty of water.
Over-the-counter creams
OTC creams and ointments also relieve inflammation and pain. Opt for those containing hydrocortisone.
Medical treatments for hemorrhoids
If natural remedies don’t provide sufficient relief, see Dr. Gaston. He offers several non-surgical and surgical treatments.
Minimally invasive procedures
Dr. Gaston uses the CRH O’Regan System® to cut off the blood supply to your hemorrhoids. It’s a non-surgical method with a nearly 100% success rate.
Surgery
If you have severe hemorrhoids, Dr. Gaston may perform a surgical hemorrhoidectomy to remove the hemorrhoids.
The bottom line is that you don’t have to suffer from hemorrhoids. Schedule an appointment at Metropolitan Gastroenterology Consultants today.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Is Heartburn the Same as Acid Reflux?
You often see the terms heartburn and acid reflux together, and sometimes, they’re used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Here’s the difference between heartburn and acid reflux, and more importantly, what you can do about them.
Why Do I Keep Getting Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are itchy, bleeding, painful, and embarrassing. Getting them once is annoying, but when they keep recurring, it’s downright unbearable. Here’s why hemorrhoids tend to revisit you and how to stop them for good.
When to Consider Surgery for Crohn’s Disease
When Crohn’s disease goes from annoyingly inconvenient to unbearable and dangerous, it means you’re current treatment isn’t getting the job done. Here are the signs that it’s time to think about surgery.
5 Lifestyle Changes to Make If You’re Prone to Heartburn
Occasional heartburn is annoying — chronic heartburn is a health hazard. Here’s how to curb acid reflux without medication or surgery.
6 Foods to Avoid with Ulcerative Colitis
Set down your coffee cup and step away from those fries. Once you know how food and drink affect your ulcerative colitis symptoms, you can regain control of your life.