Piles, also known as Hemorrhoids, is a condition triggered by pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, causing them to be inflamed and swollen. The common symptoms of piles include:
- Itchiness and pain in the anus.
- Lumps on or under the skin or the anus.
- Bleeding and discomfort when defecating.
- A consistent feeling of the need to defecate even after you’ve just gone to the toilet.
- A slimy mucous discharge.
Although the condition affects both women and men, women may be more susceptible during the years of childbirth due to the pressure that carrying and birthing a child puts on the blood vessels in the pelvic area.
Susceptibility to piles may also be related to family history, consistent straining during bowel movements, long term constipation or diarrhoea, and age. As concerns age, around half of all people have piles by the age of 50.
Although medical drugs and pain relievers may be prescribed, there are natural ways that are known to heal piles or reduce their size. Here are 5 of the most effective.
Eating fiber-rich and anti-pile foods
Healing hemorrhoids from the inside is your best option. This means eating a high-fiber as well as other foods that help reduce pressure on the blood vessels in the rectum and around the anus. These foods include:
- Brown rice – rich in fiber, which facilitates bowel movement (the recommended amount of fibers is 25 grams for women and 38 grams for men daily).
- Tomatoes – rich in flavonoids (regulate cell activity and fight free radicals)
- Blueberries – ease constipation and promote the immune system.
- Figs – full of fiber and help ease constipation.
- Yoghurt – rich in probiotics which are the good bacteria in the stomach.
Applying Aloe Vera
A study carried out in 2018 has shown that applying Aloe Vera gel helps heal piles and facilitates the healing of wounds for people who have undergone surgery for haemorrhoids. This is associated with the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of the plant.
Use Tea Tree oil To Cure Piles
The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of Tea Tree oil reduce the swelling in piles and help manage the itching. According to Dr. Kamrava, a haemorrhoid specialist in Los Angeles, Tea Tree oil for the treatment of haemorrhoids should be diluted in a more mild oil like almond before being applied topically. Tea tree works by countering fungi, bacteria, and staphylococci.
Don’t sit for too long and exercise regularly
Today’s sedentary life that characterizes most of us can create the conditions for piles.
It is advisable that you do not sit at your desk for more than an hour.
Walking for 5 minutes every hour relieves the pressure on piles and rectum, which compromises the healing of piles.
Don’t suppress the urge to visit the restroom
Holding in body waste exacts pressure on your bowels. It also causes constipation, which means exacting more pressure when you finally visit the restroom.
Easing yourself soon as you feel the urge will keep the rectum and anus free from pressure, which helps in reducing the inflammation.
The ace tip: Drink plenty of water
Most anal problems are caused by a lack of fluid in the diet. So, always remember to drink the recommended 8 glasses of water daily. Water goes a long way to prevent constipation and making the stool softer and, hence, easier to eliminate.