CONCLUDING NOTE

As with all diseases, the primary treatment of hemorrhoids is prevention. Although hemorrhoids are painful, and quite common, they are fairly easy to treat with proper treatment and some lifestyle changes. As explained in the previous chapters, improving your diet to include high fibre foods, drinking plenty of water, softening the stool with natural products like psyllium, exercising regularly to reduce pressure on veins as well as avoiding long periods of siiting and standing can provide good relief from the symptoms of hemorrhoids. You should also avoid alcohol and spicy food as this aggravates the symptoms. Another thing to remember is not to strain excessively while passing stool, or to hold on to the bowel movement, as this can damage the veins and tissues surrounding the anus. 

It is always best to get an expert medical opinion for your hemorrhoidal symptoms, however there are many simple steps you can take to relieve the itching and pain related to piles. 

· Use an over-the-counter cream that contains hydrocotisone or a local numbing agent like witch hazel. 
· Improve your general hygiene by keeping the anal area clean and dry. Avoid soap as it may irritate the skin more. Washing the area a few times with warm water provides relief. 
· Applying an ice pack reduces inflammation of the skin providing temporary relief. 
· Sometimes it is possible to push back an internal hemorrhoid that has prolapsed (come out of the anus) but be gentle while doing so. 
· Excessive wiping with dry toilet paper can also irritate the tender skin around the anus. Use a moist towel, or a wet toilet paper to wipe the area.
· If the pain is too much to bear, using a mild painkiller like Tylenol, Advil and Motrin can provide relief.