There are many causes of hemorrhoids, but no matter the cause they all have one thing in common – discomfort. Hemorrhoids are a common condition, affecting as many as 3 in 4 adults at least once in their lives. An epsom salt bath is a soothing solution for hemorrhoids. It can be relieving for those dealing with the condition, but it’s important to consult a physician first.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids have a list of different causes. They can appear once and never again, or they can be a more regular occurrence for some. Some of the most common causes of hemorrhoids are:
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Pregnancy – Pregnant women may find themselves with hemorrhoids off and on during the course of their pregnancies. This may even occur in women who have no previous history of hemorrhoids, and they may not have one again after their baby is born.
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Chronic diarrhea or constipation – Chronic alternating diarrhea and constipation may lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
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Low-fiber diet – Eating a low-fiber diet may lead to straining while using the bathroom, and such straining can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
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Regular heavy lifting – Heavy lifting may lead to burst blood vessels, and therefore may lead to hemorrhoids.
- Straining – The pressure caused by straining while using the toilet can lead to the development of hemorrhoids.
What Is A Hemorrhoid?
A hemorrhoid is similar to a varicose vein, and it occurs when veins near the rectum or anus begin to swell. This is often caused by pressure of some kind, although not all hemorrhoids have a specific cause one can point to. Some of the symptoms of a hemorrhoid present are itching around the bottom area, pain, discomfort, swelling, and bleeding.
What To Do If You Have A Hemorrhoid
First and foremost, those with occasional or regular hemorrhoids should consult with their doctor. A physician will be able to determine the cause of the hemorrhoid, prescribe effective and safe medication, and aid their patients in avoiding hemorrhoids in the future. However, there are other things you can do to ease some of the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids while prescribed medicine is in the process of doing its job.
Sitz baths are a highly effective way to ease the discomfort and soreness associated with hemorrhoids. This type of bath focuses mainly on the bottom region, and it can be taken in one of two ways for completely comfort and convenience.
Using A Sitz Bath
You don’t have to have a bathtub to take a sitz bath. A sitz bath device can be attached to your toilet bowl, turning any toilet into a perfect sitz bathing area. The bath attaches securely to the back of the toilet, with a hole allowing for any spillage to go directly into the bowl for a mess-free experience.
Better Bath Better Body offers the Sitz Tub Bundle Kit if you need a complete sitz bath supply to get started. This is also a great gift idea if someone you care about is always suffering from hemorrhoids.
To use a sitz bath device, fill the device with warm water. Make sure that the water isn’t too hot, but that it’s at a soothing temperature that will provide a comforting experience. Once the sitz bath has been filled, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of an epsom salt sitz soak to each gallon of water used. If you’re new to taking sitz baths, start with 1 tablespoon and work your way up to 2 as you learn what works best.
A sitz soak should take around 15 to 20 minutes to maximize soothing power without furthering any irritation. Once the soak is over, rise from the sitz bath slowly and pat the skin dry with a clean, soft towel.
To clean the sitz bath, simply tip the water into the toilet bowl, flush, and wash the sitz bath in the bathtub or sink with a mild soap. The sitz bath is convenient and portable and can be stored in a bathroom closet discreetly after it has been washed and dried.
Using A Bathtub
For those with a standard bathtub, you may choose to take your sitz soak right where you take your traditional baths. To take a sitz bath in a traditional bathtub, simply fill a clean tub up with a few inches of water. You want enough water to comfortably cover the entire bottom area. Use warm and soothing water, as water too hot or too cool can be uncomfortable or further hemorrhoid discomfort.
Once the bathtub is prepared, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of a sitz soak per gallon of water, gently agitating the water so the salt quickly dissolves. After the soak has been added, sit in the bathtub for around 15 to 20 minutes enjoying the soothing comfort. Rise slowly from the bathtub, pat dry, and drain the water from the bathtub once your soak is complete.
Finding The Perfect Sitz Epsom Soak
Finding the right sitz epsom soak for you can make all the difference in your experience. First and foremost, you want USP grade epsom salt, as this salt meets all standards for potency, purity, and safety. Second, the aroma that comes from the epsom salt should be all natural as not to further any irritation your skin may be experiencing. Essential oils provide authentic and gentle aromatherapy to enhance your sitz bathing experience.
Sitz Bath Soak is a basic sitz soak that’s perfect for those who have occasional hemorrhoids or those experiencing hemorrhoids for any reason. In this soak you’ll find USP grade epsom salt, MCT fractionated coconut oil, Vitamin E oil, and Vitamin C crystals alongside essential oils of juniper, niaouli, frankincense, lavender, and geranium. A calming and soothing blend, it features a fresh and invigorating aroma powered by nature.
