Why Topical Help For Hemorrhoids May Not Always Be Enough

Many people who are suffering from hemorrhoids try to use over the counter creams and lotions in order to provide them with help for hemorrhoids. It is true that creams, lotions and medicated wipes can help to ease the symptoms but they do not usually treat the underlying condition or prevent it from getting worse. If you want to make sure that your mild hemorrhoids stay that way you may need to look at changes to your diet and lifestyle instead.

Creams and lotions work to numb the area and reduce the amount of pain that you feel. Medicated wipes can be fantastic because they not only prevent irritation that can be caused by using dry toilet paper to wipe and, if they contain an astringent such as witch hazel, they can also help shrink the size of the hemorrhoids at least temporarily.

The problem is that unless you attack the underlying reasons for the hemorrhoids you may end up having the condition return again and again. Some causes for hemorrhoids can include chronic constipation or diarrhea, a diet that is low in fiber, pregnancy in women and even age and genetics. Straining to have a bowel movement and the position that we sit on when on the toilet can also cause problems and may make hemorrhoids become even worse.

What is known as the "typical North American diet" can often cause hemorrhoids. This is a diet that is low in whole grains and whole fruits. Because there is very little soluble fiber being consumed it can mean that our stools are very hard and may result in straining in an attempt to pass them. This strain can end up causing hemorrhoids to appear and may cause existing hemorrhoids to get a lot worse.

If you are unable to eat more whole grains adding a fiber supplement or taking psyllium supplements can help to make stool softer. If you do not have to strain as much you may find that your condition will improve over time especially when used in conjunction with over the counter treatments.

If you are spending a lot of time on the toilet you may find that you end up with hemorrhoids. By changing the position of your feet by placing them up on a box you will take pressure off of the area where hemorrhoids can develop. Limiting yourself to sitting for five minutes or less can also help to prevent the condition from occurring.