A hemorrhoid cushion is a pad that is designed to make sitting more comfortable for those suffering from hemorrhoids. While not life-threatening or dangerous, the condition can be very uncomfortable for those who have it. Essentially a hemorrhoid is a swollen vein, similar to a varicose vein, on or around the anus and rectal area. It can cause pain, itching, swelling and bleeding in the affected area. Hemorrhoid cushions are specially designed cushions that can help relieve pressure on hemorrhoids.
There are two main types of hemorrhoids. The first type is known as an internal hemorrhoid and is located on the inside of the anus. The second type is located on the outside of the anus and is known as an external hemorrhoid. Occasionally an internal hemorrhoid may protrude outside of the body; these are commonly known as a protruding hemorrhoid or a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid.
When hemorrhoids are inflamed, they can make it uncomfortable to sit down. Most regular chairs do not provide a sufficient level of comfort and support for someone who has hemorrhoids. In fact, most regular chairs cause considerable pressure on the anus, which can be especially uncomfortable to a person with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid cushions are designed to make sitting more comfortable by reducing the amount of pressure on the anal area. In addition to alleviating the symptoms, hemorrhoid cushions may also help prevent someone with hemorrhoids from aggravating the condition when sitting down, especially for an extended period of time.
Hemorrhoid cushions generally come in one of two major designs. The first type of hemorrhoid cushion is usually referred to as a doughnut or ring cushion because of its O-shaped design. The opening in the middle of the cushion enables a person to sit on the cushion without direct pressure being placed on the hemorrhoid itself. Doughnut cushions are manufactured in inflatable or solid foam styles.
The second type of hemorrhoid cushion looks more like a conventional pillow or cushion than the doughnut style. Like the doughnut hemorrhoid cushion, a pillow is designed to relieve pressure on the anal area. However, rather than providing an open space in the middle, a pillow style works by simply providing a softer surface to sit on. Like the O-shaped cushion, hemorrhoid pillows are typically found in inflatable and solid foam designs.
Both types of hemorrhoid cushions are effective and one is not necessarily better than the other. Since everyone’s body is different, it is important for those interested in a hemorrhoid cushion to try several different ones to find the one that is right. Hemorrhoid cushions are commonly used by many people as part of an overall hemorrhoid treatment program that may involve changes in diet, the use of topical creams or ointments and the use of warm water baths.