(HealthDay News) -- Hemorrhoids occur when veins in the rectum become swollen and painful. Symptoms may include tender bumps near the anus, or blood found on toilet paper after a bowel movement.
Here are suggestions on how to help them heal and ease the pain, courtesy of the American Academy of Family Physicians:
- Sit in a warm bath.
- Use baby wipes or moist toilet paper after each bowel movement.
- Use ice packs on the area to reduce swelling.
- Take an over-the-counter pain reliever to ease pain.
- Apply a cream that contains witch hazel, or a hydrocortisone cream to relieve pain and itch.
The academy says you should talk with your doctor before using any hemorrhoid medication.
