Treating Hemorrhoids the Natural Way

Yes, they have been the butt of many jokes (no pun intended) but there is really nothing funny or amusing about hemorrhoids, at least not for those who suffer from them.
And believe it or not, many people suffer from this problem at one time or another in their lives.
But what are these afflictions; what causes them, and better yet, what can a person do to treat them without medical intervention? The term hemorrhoid refers to a condition when the veins around the anus or rectum become swollen and inflamed.
This usually results in eruptions and inflammation in this area which is not only painful but typically is dry and itchy as well.
You can imagine how uncomfortable and downright embarrassing this problem can be as well.
There are many causes of hemorrhoids, from straining to pass stool to pregnancy, aging, constipation, and trauma or injury to the anus.
Many pharmacies carry over-the-counter medications for hemorrhoids and most of these work quite well to quell the burning and itching feeling and to help reduce swelling and inflammation.
However, if you have chronic and constant flare-ups, you may want to consider if there is something you're doing to bring these on yourself and what you can do to actually stop them from happening in the first place.
If you're pregnant, keep in mind that hemorrhoids usually happen because the weight of the fetus puts strain on your digestive tract and intestines.
This usually means that you have a tendency to strain when you use the bathroom, whether you're aware of this or not.
For those who are usually constipated or who have problems passing stool, some changes in the diet can be very helpful.
Typically adding fiber and increasing one's water intake can go a long way toward reducing the outbreaks of hemorrhoids.
Fiber helps to break food down and move it along the digestive tract and softens stools so they're easier to pass.
Fiber is found in natural fruits and vegetables and whole grains; try eating more salads and fresh fruits and foods such as oatmeal or whole wheat bread.
If you don't like drinking water, try drink mixes such as Crystal Light.
Switch to sugar-free and decaffeinated versions of your favorite beverages so you can drink more without gaining weight or staying up at night.
Usually small changes to one's diet like these are enough to at least lessen the chances of hemorrhoids.
When it's time to use the bathroom, be mindful of your habits.
Straining can cause problems including hemorrhoids.
Give yourself plenty of time and privacy.
And if you do all of this and still find that your symptoms consistently return, then it's time to speak to a medical doctor.
Common vitamins and over the counter products can help with the inflammation of the veins such as Quercitin, Vitamin E and Ginkgo Plus.
Quercitin is a well known flavonoid.
Flavonoids are powerful antioxidants and can reduce inflammation boost the immune system and strengthen blood vessels and improve circulation.
Quercitin is also known for its ability to block the release of histamines, thus reducing or preventing allergy symptoms.
Take 500 mg twice daily.
Vitamin E accelerates wound healing and aids in the functioning of the immune system.
Ginkgo Plus supplies a comprehensive range of important nutrients needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation.