Most hemorrhoids resolve on their own within a couple of weeks, but symptoms such as pain and itching can be managed with home remedies and lifestyle adjustments[2].
- Warm baths: Soaking in a tub with a few inches of warm water for 15 minutes, two or three times daily and after bowel movements, can soothe symptoms. A sitz bath can also be used for targeted relief[4].
- Hygiene: Gently wash the area with unscented soap—do not scrub—and pat dry or use a cool blow dryer if needed[4].
- Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams, wipes, or gels containing witch hazel or lidocaine can reduce pain and itching. Do not use hydrocortisone products for more than one week without a doctor’s approval[4].
- Increase fiber and fluid intake: Eating a high-fiber diet (25–35 g per day) and drinking more water softens stools and reduces straining, which helps both prevent and alleviate hemorrhoids[5][6].
- Stool softeners: These may help if constipation persists, reducing irritation during bowel movements[6].
- Coconut oil and witch hazel: These home remedies are popularly used to ease discomfort, though evidence supporting their effectiveness is limited[2][8].
If these approaches do not provide relief within a week, or if there is rectal bleeding, persistent pain, or suspicion of another condition, seek medical advice[2].
- For persistent or severe hemorrhoids, outpatient procedures such as rubber-band ligation (cutting off blood supply with a small band), sclerotherapy (injection to shrink hemorrhoids), and minimally invasive or surgical treatments may be recommended by a doctor[1][3][7].
In advanced or recurrent cases, surgical methods such as hemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy may be necessary. These are generally reserved for grade III and IV hemorrhoids when less invasive options have failed[1][5][7].
References
- [1] Types of Surgeries To Treat Hemorrhoids – WebMD
- [2] Home treatment and remedies for hemorrhoid relief – Medical News Today
- [3] The four tiers for fast and effective hemorrhoid treatments – Colorectal Associates
- [4] Home Treatment and Remedies for Hemorrhoid Relief – WebMD
- [5] Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options – AAFP
- [6] Treating Hemorrhoids at Home: 7 Self-Care Tips – GoodRx
- [7] Optimal Treatment of Symptomatic Hemorrhoids – PMC
- [8] Hemorrhoids Home Remedies and OTC Treatment – Healthline
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