Home : Technology & Computing : How To Choose The Right Accounting Software For Your Business

How to choose the right accounting software for your business

Accounting is a complicated process with multiple sub-processes that can be quite stressful to navigate. Say, for example, spreadsheets. They are a great help in the accounting process but may not be of much help in and of their own. Today’s financing world demands speedy processing and minimal errors, which spreadsheets may not allow.

How to choose the right accounting software for your business

Accounting software can manage multiple processes simultaneously and help in streamlining the accounting processes of a business. Other than managing the core financial processes, accounting software programs also look after functions such as invoicing, inventory management, and payroll.

Main features of an accounting software

Accounting software can perform several tasks but the most fundamental of them render such software a must-have in any modern-day businesses. The below-mentioned tasks carried out by accounting software effectively help businesses in financial management:

  • Invoicing and billing

Invoicing and billing are the core functions of any business. An accounting software handles the production and maintenance of invoices and the process of sending them to customers on due dates. Some also send payment reminders from time to time.

  • Payroll

Payroll is another crucial function of a business. You have to pay your employees every month and this process involves leave tracking, deductions, income tax management, overtime calculations, generating payslips, and more. If you find all of these functions in an accounting software, then it is a good option for you.

  • Reporting

One of the main purposes of accounting software is report generation. These reports help in making crucial financial decisions.

  • Bookkeeping

Bookkeeping is a tedious task when done manually. Most companies look for accounting software to ease the pressure that comes with bookkeeping. The accounting software you choose should be capable of managing each and every financial transaction across departments.

Types of accounting software

Accounting software is advanced programs that can perform a range of times in lesser time periods. They can handle receivables and payables while managing cash flow and payroll. An advanced accounting software may also offer high-level analytics to generate reports. There are different types of accounting software that are classified based on the tasks they perform:

  • Small business payroll and accounting

Small businesses may not necessarily have as many departments and functions as established ones; hence, they can go for an off the shelf software program. This software is known as small business payroll and accounting software and can manage most needs of blooming businesses. This type of software comes loaded with accounting tools and reporting options that are needed to process financial data. Some accounting software that fall in this category are QuickBooks and Cougar Mountain Software, among others.

  • Business management

This type of software is meant for big business houses that require additional features such as inventory control, customer relationship management (CRM), purchasing, enterprise resource management (ERP), and the like. Because they come with a wider range of features, business management software programs are pricey as compared to other options. Some of the popular names in this category are Everest and NetSuite.

  • Web-hosted accounting applications

This type of accounting software makes use of cloud computing to deliver financial capabilities. This new breed of online financial applications is providing safe business environments on the internet, while performing all the functions that a business needs. Some programs that have been doing good in this segment are Quickbooks Online, NetBooks, Sage 50cloud, and NetSuite.

Free accounting software programs

There are certain software programs that offer some services that are free of cost. For example, there is a free version of QuickBooks that lets you maintain customer accounts, create invoices, store bills, get business insights, and handle payrolls. There are more such software programs that can be used by small companies for a short period before they decide to scale up and switch to advanced ones.

How to choose an accounting software

Accounting software can be helpful only when it suits your business needs and takes care of all the inhouse processes without a lot of manual input. Here a few things that you should factor in when choosing an accounting software for your business:

  • Conduct a need analysis

The first step towards choosing an accounting software is to conduct a need analysis of your business. A need analysis is the process of understanding the requirement of a certain resource. When it comes to accounting software, you need to analyze both the financial as well as managerial needs.

Analyze the need for your organization on a broad spectrum. It is only fair to assume that you are going to grow from your current standing. So it is advisable to consider your future expectations from the accounting software along with your current needs. A good need analysis at this stage means that you will not have to repeat the process in the next few years .

  • Communicate with your staff

Your finance department staff is the best bunch of people to guide you in this decision. At the end of the day, these are the people who are going to use the software to perform various financial tasks. Also, these are the people who will be well-positioned to tell you more about the accounting processes and the alterations they need.

.

While you are at it, ask the team if they have certain expectations from the software and if they have a particular software in mind. Your accountants work on your financial data day in and day out; so, they might have a better understanding of what your business needs to streamline accounts and other financial processes.

  • Consider your budget

As discussed above, there are many types of software available in the market and each has a different price tag. Off-the-shelf software programs are more affordable but they come with limited functions, while an advanced accounting software may be more expensive but comes with a bigger suite of functions.

The key is to find an industry-specific software that fits the bill in the present moment; your preferences can be modified as your business grows. Industry-specific software is also known as vertical software and can be bought from a value-added reseller (VAR). This seller will help you with installation, setup, and training, and will be your point of contact (POC) for every time you need an upgradation. Most vertical software programs come with an annual fee and you will also be required to pay additionally for the VAR’s services.

  • Talk to software consultants

Software consultants are people who analyze a business and suggest a software that can meet its specific needs. A business software consultant will scrutinize your business and conduct a thorough need analysis before suggesting a few good options that will take care of all your accounting needs, while also fitting your budget. If you already have a few options in mind, a software consultant can help you zero in on the right choice.

  • Reach out to other businesses

Talking to others in your industry can also help you in your search of an accounting software. They can not only offer you insights into prevalent accounting trends in your field but can also tell you about a few programs that you can try out. And if they are already using a software, then they can even give an honest review of its service. This can give you ample scope to compare their opinions and reviews with your views and arrive at a wise purchasing decision.

  • Create a final list

Right before you choose an accounting software for your company, you can jot down everything you have learned in your quest to find the best accounting software for your business. You can put down everything, right from your current requirement to the budget that you can allocate to it. Don’t forget to create some space for future requirements and upgradability.

Once everything is in place, cross-check your needs with the different software programs available in the market. You probably won’t find one software that meets all your needs but you find one that ticks the maximum number of boxes.

Benefits of an accounting software

If you are still wondering how an accounting software will benefit you, here are a few more points that you can consider:

  • Accounting software has simple and fast data entry capabilities that can power your processes and quicken your financial decisions.
  • With accounting software, you reduce the chances of error caused at the time of data entry.
  • Accounting software programs facilitate better collaboration between different departments of the company. They can also manage teams located across the globe.
  • When you invest in accounting software, you substantially reduce operational costs that may take place due to the hiring of in-house teams or outsourcing of bookkeeping processes.
  • An accounting software program simplifies tax compliance because you can customize it to handle local tax codes.
  • It improves productivity by reducing approval processes and syncing data at multiple levels efficiently.
  • Accounting software programs generate timely and detailed financial reports, thereby aiding you in better decision-making.

Top accounting software that you can try

An ideal accounting software automates a business’s financial functions and transactions, and includes modules such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, billing, and general ledger. Some of the software programs that can do all this more are listed below. These have been rated based on the functions they cover and how well they sync these functions to create an overall efficient, easy-to-use system.

  • BuildSmart

BuildSmart is a web-based software that offers industry-specific functions to the construction industry. It combines sub-functions like project and enterprise costing, ledger activity, and more on an effective management platform. Some of the modules that make this software one of the top-rated financial software programs are payroll, procurement, accounting, yard and store management, subcontract management, business intelligence, time, and attendance.

  • FreshBooks

FreshBooks provides businesses with an interface that helps them make decisions according to actual data and insights. With this software, you can learn about the total cost of running your business; have enough resources for yearly taxes; and get reports, insights, and a clear understanding of your earnings and expenditures.

  • QuickBooks

Quickbooks is an ideal accounting software for small businesses. It has different versions that cater to the needs of different businesses. It provides instant access to vendors, customers, and employee information. A few functions offered by this software include accounts receivable, expense tracking, billing and invoicing, non-profits, project accounting, bank reconciliation, payroll management, and purchase orders.

  • NetSuite

NetSuite is an Oracle product and is ideal for fast-growing businesses across industries. It is one of the world’s best cloud ERP solutions that offer a unified platform for all back-office processes. It takes care of accounting, CRM, and e-commerce. NetSuite has inbuilt business intelligence, reporting, and real-time visibility as well. This software empowers businesses of all sizes to achieve their potential by reducing operational inefficiencies allowing them to focus on revenue-generating decisions. NetSuite takes care of accounts receivables, expense tracking, bank reconciliation, fixed asset management, revenue management, warehouse management, and a lot more.

  • Sage Business Cloud Accounting

Sage Business Cloud Accounting is for small businesses that need access to their data at any time, anywhere. This software works on a computer or a phone through cloud computing. With Sage’s app, you can manage daily tasks like invoicing, expense tracking, time tracking, and more. It is a multi-language and multi-currency app that is convenient to use and compatible on both Apple and Android phones. Sage takes care of a whole gamut of functions such as accounts receivables, business invoicing, tax management, payroll management, bank reconciliation, etc.

Disclaimer:
The content provided on our blog site traverses numerous categories, offering readers valuable and practical information. Readers can use the editorial team’s research and data to gain more insights into their topics of interest. However, they are requested not to treat the articles as conclusive. The website team cannot be held responsible for differences in data or inaccuracies found across other platforms. Please also note that the site might also miss out on various schemes and offers available that the readers may find more beneficial than the ones we cover.

Must Read

View All
An Overview Of Colon Polyps
Health & Wellness

An Overview Of Colon Polyps

An overview of colon polyps Colon polyps are small clumps of cells formed on the lining of the colon. The majority of these polyps tend to be harmless, but with time, there are certain polyps that can easily grow into colon cancer. This is a serious condition, especially when found in the later stages. Almost any individual can develop colon polyps. People who are over 50 years of age are at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Even smokers and overweight individuals or people with a family or personal history of colon polyps might be at an increased risk of suffering from this condition. Colon polyps – causes are slightly known, but this condition rarely causes any symptoms. Therefore, for individuals who are at risk of developing the condition, it is important to have screening tests on a regular basis. These will include a colonoscopy. Polyps found in the early stages can conveniently be removed. They can be removed completely in a very safe manner. Regular screening is the best step for the prevention of colon polyps. What are the colon polyps – causes? Doctors do not exactly know the causes of colon polyps, but they are of the view that polyps are a result of abnormal tissue growth. The human body develops healthy cells in a periodic manner, thus replacing the old cells that tend to be damaged or are no longer required. The division and growth of these new cells is regulated. However, there are cases when the new cells develop and then divide before they are actually needed. It is this excessive growth that results in polyps. Packaged red meat is also one of the most common colon polyps – causes. Fiber deficiency in the body. High-fat diet taken in excessive amounts. Smoking cigarettes. Obesity is also one of the major colon polyps – causes. Inherited conditions such as Gardener syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, and Peutz-Jeghers syndrome might also put an individual at an increased risk of having colon polyps. What signs and symptoms do colon polyps show? Majority of the individuals suffering from colon polyps do not show any symptoms. They are actually unaware of the fact that they have polyps, because they feel very well. Bleeding from the rectum is one of the most common symptoms of colon polyps. Blood in the stool can also be a sign of colon polyps. Blood might make stool look black, or there can be red streaks in stool. A feeling of tiredness due to anemia and not having sufficient iron in the body are common symptoms. It is the bleeding from the polyps that can result in an iron deficiency and anemia. Several other health issues might also result in these signs. Nevertheless, if rectum bleeding or blood in the stool are everyday phenomena, a consultation with a doctor is vital. How can colon polyps be prevented? Knowing the colon polyps – causes can help prevent the condition. However, there are other important steps that can be followed in trying to prevent this condition. They are as listed: Regular screenings. Lifestyle changes can also be of help in doing away with the colon polyps – causes, and, consequently, prevent them. Adopting healthy habits such as eating fruits, whole grains, and vegetables and reducing fat intake can help in the prevention of colon polyps. Limiting the intake of alcohol and quitting tobacco. Staying active physically and maintaining a healthy body weight is also important. When should one see a doctor? A general physician must be consulted in case of the following: Blood in the stool Abdominal pain Changes in bowel habits for more than a week It is important for one to have a word with their physician regarding their intake of vitamin D and calcium. This is because studies have proved that increasing the intake of food items rich in vitamin D and calcium can help prevent the recurrence of polyps. However, this is not completely clear. It is important to consider all the options, especially if one is at a very high risk of suffering from colon polyps.
The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention
Health & Wellness

The Types Of Colon Polyps And Their Prevention

The types of colon polyps and their prevention Growths that occur on the inner lining of the colon (large intestine) and usually protrude into the colon are known as colon polyps. They form when the genetic material within the cells that line the colon changes and becomes abnormal. Under normal circumstances, the immature cells that line the colon multiply, mature, and then die in a timely fashion. On the other hand, the genetic changes in the lining cells prevent the cells from maturing, and they don’t die. Resultantly, immature and genetically abnormal cells start accumulating in the colon, eventually resulting in the formation of polyps. This article intends to raise awareness about colon polyps, its types, symptoms, diagnosis, the colon polyps – causes, and more. What are the types of colon polyps? Inflammatory colon polyps : Also known as false polyps, it is mostly found in people who have inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis. These polyps are inflammatory manifestations of IBD, are benign, and are unlikely to become cancerous. Adenomatous colon polyps : Also known as adenomas, this type of colon polyps make up about 70% of all polyps found in the colon. They can become cancerous, but the process takes years. Hyperplastic colon polyps : The term hyperplasia means fast growth, which indicates an abnormal increase in the number of cells resulting in the gross enlargement of the colon polyp. Despite the rapid growth, hyperplastic polyps have a low risk of turning cancerous. Villous adenoma : This type of colon polyp has a greater potential of becoming cancerous. It is estimated that approximately 30 percent of villous adenomas develop into a malignancy. These polyps require surgery for the removal of their cauliflower-like protrusions. What are the causes of colon polyps? Experts are not sure about the colon polyps – causes. However, the causes are believed to be a mix of environmental and genetic factors that result in an abnormal tissue growth. What are the known risk factors of colon polyps? Age : The risk of developing colon polyps tends to increase with age. Family history : A close relative with colon cancer or polyps raises the risk. Sex : Men have a slightly higher chance of developing polyps. Race : Black men and women have a higher risk. Alcohol : Alcohol consumption is closely linked to colon cancer risk and is known as one of the colon polyps – causes. Red meat : If not had in moderation, red meat can serve as one of the colon polyps – causes. Having too much red meat increases the risk of colorectal cancer as well. Lack of dietary fiber : A good intake of fiber has many benefits, including colon benefits. It decreases the risk of colon cancer. Smoking : Smoking increases the risk of all types of cancers, and colon polyps or cancer is no exception. Obesity : Obese people are at higher risk of developing colon polyps and cancer. How are colonic polyps diagnosed? The following tests help diagnose colon polyps: Colonoscopy Sigmoidoscopy Barium enema CT colonography Stool test What are the symptoms of colon polyps? Change in stool color Rectal bleeding Iron deficiency Anemia Change in bowel habits Abdominal pain Blood in the stool Fatigue How common are colon polyps? They are very common. They increase in prevalence as people age. If one has colon polyps, they are more likely to develop polyps elsewhere in the colon later. Only a small proportion of polyps cause symptoms or signs, which usually are the result of bleeding from the polyp. How can colon polyps be prevented? Adopt healthy habits : Adopt healthy habits and increase the intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit fat intake, alcohol consumption, and quit tobacco. Stay physically active and maintain a healthy weight. Avoid all the estimated colon polyps – causes. Seek advice if at high risk : If there’s a family history of colon polyps or its other risk factors affect one, seeking prompt medical advice and counseling is important. With regular colonoscopies, one can prevent the colon polyps – causes from developing, and hence preventing the colon from developing.
Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy
Health & Wellness

Carcinoid Neuroendocrine Tumors – Prognosis And Life Expectancy

Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors – Prognosis and life expectancy The neuroendocrine system is a complex regulatory mechanism comprised of cells spread throughout several organ systems, including our lungs and digestive system. As they have characteristics of both nerves and endocrine cells, they are called neuroendocrine cells. The nerve cells transmit signals using electrical impulses, whereas endocrine cells make thyroid and insulin-secreting glands. This article intends to discuss the carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor that starts in these cells in detail. What is a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? A carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor starts in the cells of the hormone-producing organs in our body. A carcinoid tumor is a type of neuroendocrine tumor that most commonly arises in the gastrointestinal system, which includes intestines, stomach, and esophagus. Carcinoid tumors account for about 1% to 2% of lung cancers. As carcinoid tumors originate from tissue that produces hormones, the main side effect of the condition is the inappropriate release of various hormones in the bloodstream. Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor can arise in a number of locations categorized into three areas: the foregut, midgut, and hindgut. Lungs and stomach form the foregut area. The midgut comprises of the small intestine, colon, and appendix. The hindgut includes the end of the large bowel, the rectum, and genitourinary tract organs (ovaries and testes). What factors raise a person’s risk of developing a carcinoid tumor? A family history of multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 : This hereditary condition increases an individual’s risk of developing tumors in the pituitary gland, pancreas, and parathyroid gland. Age : Age seems to be a major factor that plays an integral role, as children rarely develop carcinoid tumors; the average diagnosis age is 55 to 65 years for this condition. Race and gender : Carcinoid tumors are more common among black people than white people, and black men have a higher risk than black women. White men and women have the same risk levels, and after treatment, women tend to live longer. Other medical conditions : Some medical conditions that damage the stomach and reduce acid production increase the risk of developing a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor. What are the symptoms of a carcinoid tumor? Signs and symptoms of a carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor depend on where the tumor develops: Carcinoid tumors in the lungs : The symptoms of a tumor in the lungs are chest pain, wheezing, diarrhea, shortness of breath, skin flushing (redness and a feeling of warmth on the face and neck), weight gain, particularly around the midsection and back, and pink or purple marks on the skin, which look like stretch marks. Carcinoid tumors in the digestive tract : The symptoms, in this case, are abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, intestinal blockage, causing an inability to pass stool, rectal bleeding and pain, and skin flushing. What are some effective management tips for the symptoms of carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors? Facial flushing : Avoid stress and ask your doctor about specific foods that cause facial flushing so that you can avoid them. Diarrhea : Ask your doctor for anti-diarrheal medication. Wheezing : Ask for medication that relaxes muscles in the lungs to make breathing easier. Heart problems : Discuss your heart issues with your doctor so that they can prescribe diuretics, which lower the blood pressure. Carcinoid syndrome : Use octreotide on prescription, which is the most effective medication to treat carcinoid syndrome. What is the prognosis for carcinoid neuroendocrine tumor? Carcinoid neuroendocrine tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign carcinoid tumors are small and can be removed completely. They don’t come back and don’t spread to other parts of the body. They don’t produce any symptoms as well. Malignant carcinoid tumors are large, and their cells can invade and damage the surrounding tissues and organs. Additionally, malignant cells can enter the bloodstream or lymphatic system and can even form new tumors in other parts of the body. Lymph nodes, lungs, bone liver, and skin are the common sites for carcinoid metastases. Carcinoid tumors grow slowly in comparison to other cancers, such as lung, colon, pancreas, or liver cancer. Patients with larger malignant carcinoid tumors (with or without metastasis) can survive and have a good quality of life after proper treatment. Adenocarcinoids, a rare form of carcinoid tumors, are more aggressive than the typical malignant carcinoid tumors.
What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage
Health & Wellness

What Are The First Signs Of Liver Damage

Liver damage – What are the first signs? On the right side of the abdomen, below your rib cage, is an organ called the liver. It is the size of a football and is one of the most important organs in the human body. The liver aids in the digestion of the food we eat and also helps in flushing out the toxins from our body. When there is any kind of disturbance in the normal liver functioning, then it can cause a significant damage to the human body. Once you start exhibiting the signs of liver damage, it is important to get the exact diagnosis and take the next steps accordingly. What are the causes of liver damage? There can be a number of causes for liver damage: Liver infection is one of the most common causes of liver damage. Viruses and parasites can cause infections that affect the normal functioning of the liver. Hepatitis is the most common liver infection, which includes Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Some diseases will affect your immune system thereby damaging your liver too. This is called autoimmune hepatitis. Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis are of the same kind. If you have inherited an abnormal gene from any of your parents or family members, it can lead to a build up of various substances in the body and hence can damage the liver. Build up of liver cancer can be a cause. A person who is an alcohol addict is more prone to liver damage. What are the first signs of liver damage? There can be several signs of a liver damage. Here are 10 signs of liver damage that you need to pay attention to: Your eyes and skin turning yellow, which is usually a sign of jaundice. Abdominal swelling and pain are also symptoms of liver damage that you should watch out. Your ankles and legs begin to swell.. Your urine becomes dark yellow in color. There can be many reasons for dark yellow urine, but it can also be a sign of liver damage. Excessively itchy skin is also a symptom of liver damage. Loss of appetite. Getting bruises easily as your liver fails to create proteins needed for blood clotting. Vomiting and nausea for no reason. Blood in the stool or pale stool. Chronic fatigue. How is liver damage diagnosed? In order to get started with the liver damage treatment, it is very important to diagnose the symptoms of liver damage correctly. In order to start the diagnoses, your doctor will start with a physical examination, followed by requesting details of your health history. Liver function tests, which are blood tests will be done at the initial stage. MRI Scan and CT scan kind of image tests are done. Tissue analysis is also done to get an accurate idea of the problem . How is liver damage treated? The treatment for the liver damage depends on the type and severity of damage. Some stages can be treated with just slight modifications to the diet and lifestyle like weight reduction, no smoking or alcohol. Further stages will require medication and severe condition will need a surgery. If your liver has failed completely, then you will have to go for a liver transplant, which is an expensive and time consuming process. How can liver damage be prevented? Certain changes in your lifestyle can prevent liver damage. You need to stop drinking alcohol or only drink a moderate amount to decrease pressure on your liver. Get vaccinated to prevent getting hepatitis infections. When you are spraying insecticides or other aerosol sprays, make sure that you cover your nose and also make sure to protect your skin. You need to maintain a healthy weight as there are chances of fatty liver damage as well. You should take only medicine that is prescribed to you and make sure that you do not take any medicine in excess or without talking to your doctor.
What Are The Causes And Symptoms Of External Hemorroids
Health & Wellness

What Are The Causes And Symptoms Of External Hemorroids

What are the causes and symptoms of external Hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoids, popularly known as ‘Piles,’ are enlarged or swollen blood vessels near the lower part of the rectum or anus. The inflamed veins are caused due to excessive pressure on the veins or extra strain during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are very common in men as well as women in their middle age. There are no major hemorrhoids – symptoms however these can be very painful and may cause severe itching and bleeding. What are the types of Hemorrhoids? There are various types of hemorrhoids that are classified based on the way they are caused: Internal hemorrhoids – In this type of condition, the swelling of the blood vessels is inside the rectum area. It may not cause discomfort however it may get painful during bowel movements and may cause bleeding. It may also at time protrude outside the anal opening and cause irritation. External hemorrhoids: In this condition, the swelling is around the skin of the anal area or the lower rectum area. It usually causes painful bowel movements and irritation due to itching. Thrombosed hemorrhoids: In this type of a situation there is generally a blood clot formation inside the hemorrhoid which is very distressing. What are the symptoms of external hemorrhoids? The external hemorrhoids – symptoms are: The bowel movements may not be very painful but contain blood every time you pass stool. It may even stain the tissue paper or undergarments. Severe and uncontrollable itching around the anal area. Intolerable pain in the rectum area during and after bowel movements. Discomfort while sitting or walking, along with pain and itching. Swelling of blood vessels in or around the anal fissure which may even protrude sometimes outside the anal opening. Lump in and around the anal area which is often sensitive, tender and painful may be a symptom of a thrombosed hemorrhoid. How is it caused? Every single person has hemorrhoids, it is only when they have swelling or inflammation it becomes troublesome and painful. The exact and precise cause for hemorrhoids is still not known. The increase in the pressure around the lower part of the rectum can cause swelling and inflammation in the blood vessels which may cause hemorrhoids and its symptoms. There are many other causes that lead to recurrent hemorrhoids which are: Strain or injury during bowel movements: This may happen due to constipation or pressure to pass the bowels. Diarrhea: It is also one of the causes of hemorrhoids. Chronic Constipation: The pressure put by the patient during constipation may lead to the swelling of the blood vessels. Injury to the spinal cord can also strain the veins leading to hemorrhoid formation. Pregnancy: Can lead to hemorrhoids as it tends to put pressure on the veins in the lower rectum area due to the enlarged uterus thereby causing swelling or inflammation. Sitting for prolonged periods in a place, plane, car or bus journey may put pressure on the lower rectum or anal area which may cause the blood vessels to get enlarged or swell thus leading to hemorrhoids. Irregular bowel movements: Can cause hemorrhoids due to strain or pressure during the bowel movements. Obesity can cause hemorrhoids Low fiber diet: Fiber in diet enables the smooth functioning of the digestive tract however low fiber may affect the smooth functioning of the digestive system which may lead to piles and enlarged veins in the rectum area. Inappropriate posture: Due to various reasons can lead to hemorrhoids as it may put pressure on the lower area of the rectum and anal opening. Family history: Many a times hemorrhoids are caused due to genetics as the person may have inherited it from his/her family. What are the treatment options? In most of cases of hemorrhoids, you can opt for self-treatment or home remedies as these aid in the problem going away. However, in the severe cases, medical intervention such as surgical procedures or medicines may be required for the person to recover fully. A medical intervention is the best way to manage the symptoms of hemorrhoids and nip the condition in the bud as soon as possible.
Home Remedies To Relieve Pain And Discomfort Due To Hemorrhoids
Health & Wellness

Home Remedies To Relieve Pain And Discomfort Due To Hemorrhoids

Home remedies to relieve pain and discomfort due to hemorrhoids Hemorrhoids are also known as “piles” as they are swollen or inflamed veins in and around the anus region of the body that cause severe pain, along with distress and bleeding. The swelling is caused due to increased pressure around the area or due to an injury during a bowel movement. It is a very common condition that may occur in the middle ages for both men and women. However, there are numerous options available to treat it. Many people can get relief from hemorrhoids by following major lifestyle changes and precautions; in severe cases, surgical intervention may be required. Who is at risk of hemorrhoids? People in their 50s are generally likely to get hemorrhoids; otherwise, people who can be at risk are as follows: Pregnant women Obese people Constipation Those sitting for long periods on the toilet seat Those who have low fiber intake in their regular diet Those with an injury caused by a bowel movement What are the symptoms? The various symptoms of hemorrhoids are these: Painless bleeding during bowel movements Severe itching around the anus Discomfort and unbearable pain while sitting Swelling or inflammation around the anal region How is hemorrhoids diagnosed? Hemorrhoids are generally diagnosed by looking at it visually. The other ways to test and detect hemorrhoids include those listed here: Digital rectal examination : In this test, the doctor will first check the anus canal and rectum visually and then decide to go for the digital rectal examination. The doctor will use their finger with gloves and insert it in the rectum to feel any abnormalities or growths for identification of hemorrhoids. Sigmoidoscopy : It is a test done by the doctor when the internal hemorrhoids are difficult to diagnose as they are often soft to be felt during the rectal exam. Sigmoidoscopy is done using a small camera around the anal canal area or the lower part of the rectum. Colonoscopy : This is done by the doctor to detect hemorrhoids in cases when the patient is detected with some other digestive disorders, when there is a risk of colorectal cancer, or when the patient has been through colonoscopy recently. In this test, the patient is given medicines before the test to feel drowsy and relaxed. The doctor inserts the camera with a tube into the lower end of the rectum right up to the other end to be able to see the internal parts in the camera for a specific examination. What are some prevention measures for hemorrhoids? There are various ways to avoid getting hemorrhoids, which include these: Sufficient amount of water intake Regular exercise Fiber included in the diet Active life Avoiding constipation Eating moderate food that is easy to digest What are the home remedies to treat hemorrhoids? Hemorrhoid cures and treatment can also be done using popular home remedies, which are as mentioned: Eating fiber-rich food : The regular diet should include fruits, vegetables, grains, and lots of liquids. This will help avoid acidity and will help in smooth digestion. This will also help avoid any injury to the blood vessels in the rectum area. Aloe vera : This is an incredible natural product that is beneficial to mankind in numerous ways, and it is also helpful in treating hemorrhoids. Application of aloe vera will help in reducing the irritation and itching in the rectum area. Sitz bath : This treatment is advised by the doctor to help the patient with hemorrhoids. It involves sitting in warm water for 15-20 minutes for 3-4 times a day to get relief from pain. Cleanliness : The physical practitioner will also give directives to keep the area clean and dry to avoid any further infections. Avoid perfumed or chemical-based products and keep the area dry as much as possible. Soothing wipes : Soft wet wipes can be used to clean and soothe the area from swelling. Stool softeners : In the form of liquids or tablets, these can be advised by the doctor to avoid constipation and help in easy and quick bowel movements, which will help in getting relief from pain. Cold compress : Ice packs or cold compresses to the rectum or anal area will help in relieving swelling and inflammation of the blood vessels. Witch hazel : This can be applied directly to the affected area to help reduce pain and itching.