hemorrhoids A condition in which the veins in the anus or rectum become swollen due to pressure. External hemorrhoids occur in the veins outside and around the anus, while internal hemorrhoids occur in the veins in the lining of the rectum. Hemorrhoids often improve on their own within a few weeks, but sometimes medical intervention may be necessary.
Learn about home treatments that may relieve symptoms and prevent hemorrhoid formation and recurrence.
home remedies for hemorrhoids
Home remedies are suitable for most hemorrhoid patients, but only if an accurate diagnosis is made. If you have hemorrhoid symptoms such as itching, pain, or rectal bleeding, consult your doctor before starting treatment.
warm bath
Taking a warm bath, either in a tub full of hot water or in a sitz bath, can help relieve itching, irritation, and inflammation. sphincter Muscle spasms.
A sitz bath is a shallow pot filled with warm water that often fits over the toilet seat. You can find it at many pharmacies. You can also fill a bathtub with a few inches of water and sit in it.
Try to sit in a sitz bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement, and also two to three times a day.
It is important to keep the perianal area (around the anus) dry. After each bath, pat dry without rubbing.
aloe
Aloe vera can be used topically to reduce symptoms of skin diseases. Usually well tolerated, but occasionally burning, itching, eczema has been reported.
For most people, it’s safe to try aloe vera for hemorrhoid symptom relief, but excess moisture in the area can cause further irritation.
Witch hazel
Witch hazel is bitterness (It shrinks skin cells and other body tissues) It has anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used topically in the anal area to reduce itching, pain, and irritation associated with hemorrhoids.
Witch hazel is found in products such as tuck pads.
coconut oil
A 2020 study investigated the use of coconut oil to reduce symptoms of mild hemorrhoids during pregnancy. I found that applying coconut oil twice a day for two weeks improved my symptoms more than just changing my lifestyle.
Further research is needed into the use of coconut oil as a treatment for hemorrhoids.
ice pack
Applying ice to the anal area for a few minutes can reduce pain, discomfort, and swelling.
This can be done using a small ice pack or cold compress. Be sure to wrap the ice in a towel or cloth. Do not apply ice directly to your skin.
Over-the-counter drugs
Many over-the-counter (OTC) topical hemorrhoid treatments are available. For some people, these provide temporary symptom relief. Most products have not been studied for safety and effectiveness with long-term use and should be used for short periods of time.
These treatments may contain one or more of the following ingredients:
- Astringent (witch hazel)
- protective agent (zinc oxide)
- nasal decongestant (Phenylephrine)
- corticosteroid
- local anesthetic
Consult your health care provider before using over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments.
damp baby wipes
Cleaning the anus after each bowel movement will reduce symptoms such as itching.
It’s important to be gentle when cleaning. Use damp toilet paper or unscented baby wipes and pat dry.
breathable clothing
Wearing comfortable, breathable clothing, such as cotton underwear rather than nylon, can help prevent sweat and moisture buildup. Keeping the area around your anus dry can help prevent anal itching.
When should home treatment begin?
Do not assume that symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, or itching are caused by hemorrhoids. Before starting any treatment, including home remedies, consult your health care provider to rule out other symptoms that may be more serious.
Lifestyle changes for hemorrhoids
The most commonly suggested method for treating and preventing hemorrhoids is lifestyle changes.
Diet rich in dietary fiber
Increasing your fiber intake can help prevent constipation (a common cause of hemorrhoids) and soften stools, making them easier to pass.
Fiber supplementation has been shown to reduce bleeding from hemorrhoids by 50%, but does not seem to improve symptoms of prolapse, pain, and itching.
To increase your fiber intake, add more fiber-rich foods to your diet. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
This can also be achieved with fiber supplements such as:
- psyllium Shell fiber supplement (metamucil)
- wheat dextrin (Benefiber)
- methylcellulose (Sitol Cell)
Typically, the recommended fiber intake for adults is 20 to 35 grams per day. Start slowly and work your way up to this amount to avoid indigestion.
drink lots of liquids
Along with increasing your fiber intake, it’s important to drink plenty of caffeine-free, non-alcoholic fluids (ideally water) to prevent constipation and soften stools. 8 to 10 cups per day is common, but the amount needed varies from person to person.
exercise
Moderate exercise helps stimulate intestinal function. According to the current Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, adults should aim for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity and two days of strength-strengthening activity each week.
When should you see a health care provider?
Consult your health care provider if:
- There may be rectal bleeding, especially if it is your first time.
- Your symptoms are new or getting worse.
- I see more blood than usual.
- Symptoms remain after a week of home treatment.
- There are systemic symptoms such as loss of weight and appetite.
- I have a question or concern.
Seek medical attention immediately in the following cases:
- I have severe anal pain.
- You are losing blood or losing a lot of blood.
- Symptoms include abdominal pain or discomfort, diarrhea, and fever.
- You may feel dizzy, light-headed, or faint, especially if bleeding occurs.
- You think it’s an emergency.
Prevention of hemorrhoids
Although it is not always possible to prevent hemorrhoids, the following measures can be effective.
- eat a high fiber diet
- Drink plenty of caffeine-free, non-alcoholic fluids
- Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to defecate (instead of holding back)
- Avoid straining when defecating
- avoid routine heavy lifting
summary
Hemorrhoids often get better on their own, but some home treatments can help manage symptoms and prevent hemorrhoids from coming back. At-home treatments include a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, exercise, sitz baths, ice packs, witch hazel, and/or other topical treatments. However, further research is needed to confirm the benefits of these treatments.
If you have hemorrhoid symptoms, especially rectal bleeding, be sure to consult your health care professional before starting treatment.
A word from Berrywell
If you are diagnosed with hemorrhoids, it is usually a good idea to start treating them at home to reduce symptoms. Hemorrhoids often go away on their own, but lifestyle changes and home treatments can sometimes help. Try different methods to find what works best for you. If your symptoms do not improve, consult your doctor.