A hemorrhoid refers to a swollen blood vessel that is usually located near the rectum or the anus. One of the major effects of this swelling is pain that is primarily felt in the said area.
Depending on the severity of the problem, hemorrhoid pain can be a minor ache or a debilitating discomfort. Nevertheless, it can negatively affect the physical, social, and psychological aspects of a person who is experiencing the said health condition. Persons who have hemorrhoids usually refuse to engage in social activities due to embarrassment and the inability to move freely. In more extreme cases, the pain can even cause depression among individuals.
How does one reduce hemorrhoid pain? Before anything else, an individual should consult a doctor to confirm that he is suffering from hemorrhoid and not another disease or ailment. Next, he should make certain preventive measures to avoid further aggravation of the problem. Some of the things he can do is to eat healthy foods, drink a lot of fluids, and avoid laxatives.
During situations where the pain becomes too severe, there are several procedures which an individual can do to alleviate it. First, he can use an ice pack to lessen the swelling. Second, he can use medications such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen to make the pain more tolerable. Third, he can apply a gel containing witch hazel or an ointment which provides a numbing effect on the specific area. These medicated creams can also take away the itch that comes with the pain and discomfort. If the pain does not completely stop after doing the said procedures for two weeks, he must consult his doctor again.