HEMORRHOIDS
Have you ever noticed the reaction of the people around you when
the word "hemorrhoid" comes up in the conversation? Some people giggle, some try
to change the subject and others start making jokes, but it doesn't seem like
anyone is really dealing with hemorrhoids. In actuality, studies show that half
of the people over age 40 suffer from a mild form of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids occur when a vein in the anus or lower rectum bulges beyond it's
normal location. You may discover it when you find a glob of flesh protruding
from the anus. It can be accompanied by bleeding, itching and pain. If the
hemorrhoid ruptures or has a blood clot, it can lead to spasm of the anal
sphincter and intense pain.
Hemorrhoids are caused when the blood pressure in the veins in the anal area
becomes too large for the walls to resist. The walls then release their hold on
the veins, allowing them to fall out of place. There are several reasons why
this could happen. People with chronic constipation are often straining during
defecation causing increased blood pressure in the lower veins. Holding one's
breath during defecation also has the same effect. Other things that cause an
increase in blood pressure in the anal veins are heavy lifting, general high
blood pressure, pregnancy and heredity (weak walls).
In working to treat this problem, you may start out trying over-the-counter
creams which relieve some of the pain and itching, but don't solve the problem.
A visit to the doctor may lead to removal of the hemorrhoid. This is done by
wrapping a rubber band tightly around it until the tissue dies and drops off.
Injecting chemicals, freezing or burning the area or having the hemorrhoid
surgically removed are other medical options to treat hemorrhoids. These
procedures will bring about temporary relief, but unless the cause of the
hemorrhoid is addressed, it will come back.
If you are a first time hemorrhoid sufferer and these methods sound scary, don't
panic. Here are some natural therapies and herbal treatments that can help.
1. Often a first time hemorrhoid can be returned to place by hand. Try pushing
it back up into the rectum.
2. To prevent further irritation try the following. Before defecation, lubricate
the anus with petroleum jelly about ½ an inch into the rectum. After, use damp
toilet paper or tissues coated with moisturizing cream when wiping. Though
hemorrhoids often itch, resist the urge to scratch them because you can hurt the
vein walls.
3. Daily warm sitz baths help to relieve pain, increase blood flow to the area
and shrink the swollen tissue. Sit in 3 to 4 inches of water with the knees
raised.
To help tighten and heal the loose veins, try astringent herbs such as
BUTCHER'S
BROOM and UVA URSI.
ST. JOHN's WORT helps to heal dilated veins in and around
the anus by increasing circulation. It also helps anxiety, nervous tension and
irritability which can cause a person to be "up-tight" and constipated.
If you have hemorrhoids because of constipation try the laxative herb
CASCARA
SAGRADA. You can also work to soften the stool. Change to a high fiber diet
and drink lots of water. FLAX SEED OIL and
NATURE THREE will
also help soften the stools.
There are several herbs and formulas which can be applied directly to the
hemorrhoid and surrounding areas to increase healing and relieve pain.
WHITE
OAK BARK can be made into an infusion and used externally. It has
astringent, tonic and antiseptic effects which help hemorrhoids.
ALOE VERA
JUICE applied to the hemorrhoid and the anal area once every 2 hours soothes
the irritated mucous membranes. Applying YARROW to the hemorrhoid will help stop
any bleeding and reduce inflammation.
BLACK OINTMENT contains herbs which
can be put on the hemorrhoid to draw out toxins and tighten tissues.
Butcher's Broom will aid the circulation and White Oak Bark will shirk the hemorrhoid. Some have used Vari-Gone with good results.
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NATURE'S SUNSHINE site for your Personal "Health Analysis".
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Contact: Karen Olerich, Herb Specialist and Natural Health Consultant
Phone: (719) 495-4930
E-mail:
Karen
