Treatments may include:
If these measures don’t work, a healthcare provider can suggest other options.
In some cases, a medical procedure may be necessary to resolve hemorrhoids.
It also explains the types of procedures that may be needed if conservative measures fail to provide relief.
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Verywell / Cindy Chung
Natural Remedies
Home remediesare often very effective for managing the discomfort of hemorrhoids.
This can include changes in diet to promote healing and prevent complications by easing the passing of stools.
Baking soda or Epsom salts can be added to reduce inflammation.
Get our printable guide for your next healthcare provider’s appointment to help you ask the right questions.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazelis a naturalastringentthat can help relieve minor bleeding and prevent infection.
Anything longer can lead to frostbite.
Some may go away on their own.
A hemorrhoid, external or internal, should only be removed by a healthcare provider.
You should never attempt to remove, drain, or pop a hemorrhoid on your own.
This can cause infection and excessive bleeding.
Try using a squeeze bottle filled with warm water to rinse the anus after a bowel movement.
Then dab the anus gently with a disposable baby wipe and allow to air dry.
High Fiber Diet
A diet rich insoluble fibercan help relieveconstipationand prevent hemorrhoids from returning.
Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like goo that helps ease the passing of stools.
By making stools soft, there is less chance of rectal pain or bleeding.
venture to consume between 25 and 35 grams of fiber daily to keep your bowel movements regular.
Fiber supplementscontaining psyllium, methylcellulose, or calcium polycarbophil can also help.
OTC Medications
Over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medications can help relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids.
Some can also promote healing by easing bowel movements.
These include oral medications taken by mouth and topical medication applied to the skin.
Topical Creams
NSAIDs are a good, first-line defense against hemorrhoid pain and inflammation.
But if these fail to provide relief, hemorrhoid creams can be used to actively shrink inflamed tissues.
They are also commonly known asemollient laxatives.
Stool softeners take at least a couple of days to take effect.
The result is a softer stool that’s easier to pass.
Non-Surgical Procedures
Several minimally invasive in-office procedures can be used to treat larger or severe hemorrhoids.
If these don’t work, a medical procedure or surgery may be necessary.
Don’t be afraid to discuss your symptoms with your provider to get the best possible treatment.
American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.Hemorrhoids.
Harvard Health Publishing, Harvard Medical School.Hemorrhoids and what to do about them.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Eating, diet, and nutrition for hemorrhoids.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Treatment of Hemorrhoids.
Keck Medicine of USC.Is it hemorrhoids or colon cancer?
