Hemorrhoid therapies: simple, practical options that actually help
Got painful or bleeding hemorrhoids and want clear, no-nonsense options? Hemorrhoids range from mild and annoying to painful and disruptive. The good news: many cases get better with simple home steps. When they don't, there are several office procedures and surgeries that work well. Below I break down what helps now, what your doctor can offer, and the warning signs to watch for.
OTC and home treatments that work
Start with easy fixes: add more fiber (25–35 g daily) through fruits, oats, beans, or a psyllium supplement; drink water; and avoid straining. Softer stools reduce pressure during bowel movements and help hemorrhoids heal faster. Use a sitz bath (warm water for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily) to ease pain and spasms.
Over-the-counter creams and wipes with hydrocortisone or witch hazel can reduce itching and swelling. Use a topical ointment for short periods only and follow package directions. For quick pain relief, try acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Stool softeners (docusate) are useful during flare-ups to prevent re-straining.
Avoid long sitting on the toilet and heavy lifting until symptoms improve. Ice packs for 10–15 minutes can control swelling after activity. If bleeding is light and limited to the toilet paper or bowl, these measures are usually enough. If bleeding is heavy, continuous, or you feel faint, seek medical care right away.
Office procedures and surgery: what to expect
If home care fails or hemorrhoids are large and prolapsing, doctors can offer minimally invasive procedures. Rubber band ligation is common: a tiny band cuts off a hemorrhoid’s blood supply and it falls off in days. Sclerotherapy uses a chemical injection to shrink veins. Infrared coagulation applies heat to close off the vessel. These are quick office treatments with short recovery time.
For severe or recurring hemorrhoids, surgery may be needed. Hemorrhoidectomy removes the hemorrhoid tissue and works well for large, painful cases. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy lifts prolapsed tissue and often causes less pain after surgery. Recovery varies—expect a few days to a few weeks depending on the procedure.
Ask your provider about expected outcomes, risks, and recovery time. Tell them about blood thinners, bowel habits, and any previous anorectal issues. If you prefer to avoid surgery, ask if a repeat office procedure is possible.
Preventing return is key: keep a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, exercise, and avoid straining. If constipation is chronic, see a clinician for longer-term solutions rather than relying on stimulant laxatives.
Red flags: heavy bleeding, dizziness, fever, severe pain, or a mass that doesn't reduce after basic home care. Those need prompt medical attention. For most people, a combination of fiber, sitz baths, and targeted office procedures gives fast and lasting relief.
Want help picking the right next step? Note your symptoms, how long they’ve lasted, and whether home care helped—then discuss those specifics with your clinician. Clear details make the best treatment plans.
Exploring Alternative Therapies for Hemorrhoids: Acupuncture, Hypnotherapy, and Natural Remedies
Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable and often irritating condition that affects many people. Looking beyond conventional treatment options, alternative therapies such as acupuncture and hypnotherapy offer potential relief. This article delves into the benefits and methods of these therapies, along with additional natural remedies. By exploring these treatment options, individuals may find more personalized and less invasive ways to manage their symptoms.