How to get rid of hemorrhoids fast

For some people, hemorrhoids can be an unwelcome surprise, while for others, they can be a common occurrence. Whether you’ve had a long day sitting at a desk or a recent bout of constipation, hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable experience. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause pain, itching, and even bleeding.

Hemorrhoids should be treated promptly, as they can lead to complications if left untreated. Various over-the-counter (OTC) treatments and at-home remedies can help alleviate the symptoms and quickly provide relief. In severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend certain procedures to shrink or remove them. Read on to learn some of the most effective ways to get rid of hemorrhoids fast.

How to get rid of hemorrhoids

There are different ways to help relieve hemorrhoids, from simple lifestyle changes to topical or oral medications. The most appropriate treatment will depend on the severity of the hemorrhoids and your overall condition. Consider consulting a healthcare provider for medical advice before using at-home treatments.

Increased fiber in the diet

Not eating enough fiber can lead to straining and harder stools. Straining can cause blood to pool in the pelvic area and weaken the blood vessels there. Increasing your fiber may help soften stools and alleviate strain during bowel movements, which may help reduce the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids. High-fiber foods include fresh fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Some examples of fiber-rich foods include:

• Whole wheat pasta
• Brown rice
• Apples
• Pears
• Broccoli
• Beans

The recommended amount of fiber depends on gender and age. Women are advised to consume 25 grams of fiber daily, while men should aim for a daily intake of 38 grams of fiber. In older adults over 50, the recommended amount is 21 grams per day for women and 30 grams for men.

Warm bath or sitz bath

A warm bath or sitz bath can help provide relief from hemorrhoid discomfort by relaxing the anal muscles and soothing the irritated skin. It involves sitting in a shallow basin of warm water that covers only the hips and buttocks or simply sitting in a regular bathtub with three to four inches of warm water. This can be done for about 15 to 20 minutes several times a day, especially after bowel movements. Adding Epsom salts to the water may also provide additional relief.

Lifestyle changes

Making certain lifestyle changes may help prevent and relieve hemorrhoid symptoms. Some suggestions include:

• Avoiding straining during bowel movements
• Drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated
• Exercising regularly to improve blood circulation
• Using the squat position while on the toilet seat

Topical medications

OTC topical medications can provide relief from itching, pain, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. They usually come in the form of creams, ointments, or suppositories and are applied directly to the affected area. Some contain ingredients like hydrocortisone and witch hazel, which help reduce inflammation, while others have local anesthetics to numb the area. Common examples of topical treatments for hemorrhoids include: 

• Preparation H (phenylephrine)
• Tucks (witch hazel)
• Anusol HC (hydrocortisone)
• RectiCare (lidocaine)
• Proctosedyl (hydrocortisone and cinchocaine)
• Tronolane (pramoxine)

Psyllium husk

Taking psyllium husk supplements can help increase fiber intake and soften stools. It works by absorbing water in the gut, making bowel movements softer and easier to pass. As a result, psyllium husk can help reduce straining that may be causing hemorrhoids. Be sure to drink plenty of water when using psyllium husk supplements to prevent constipation.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a natural remedy known for its soothing and healing properties. This plant’s gel has anti-inflammatory effects, which can help in reducing the irritation and swelling caused by hemorrhoids. Aloe vera can be applied topically to the affected area to provide relief.

Oral pain relievers

Oral pain relievers may be effective in managing the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. These medications may help reduce pain and inflammation, but they don’t directly treat the hemorrhoids themselves. NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are common oral pain relievers used for hemorrhoid discomfort. Examples include:

• Advil (ibuprofen)
• Aleve (naproxen) 
• Aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid)

You may need to avoid NSAIDs if you’re experiencing bleeding with hemorrhoids. NSAIDs have blood thinner effects and may increase the risk of bleeding.

What can my healthcare provider do for my hemorrhoids?

If you’re experiencing severe pain, itching, or bleeding from hemorrhoids, you may need to consult a healthcare provider to discuss potential treatment options. In severe cases, healthcare providers can perform various medical procedures to alleviate the discomfort and treat hemorrhoids quickly and effectively.

In-office procedures are often less invasive and can be performed by your healthcare provider during a regular visit. Some common in-office procedures include:

• Rubber band ligation: This involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off within a week.
• Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoidal tissue, causing scar tissue to form. The scar tissue causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually disappear.
• Infrared coagulation: Heat is applied to the hemorrhoidal tissue to create scar tissue, cutting off its blood supply and ultimately causing it to shrink and fall off.

If these in-office procedures don’t provide sufficient relief or the hemorrhoids are more severe, your healthcare provider might recommend surgical procedures such as:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: This surgical procedure involves the removal of external or prolapsing internal hemorrhoids. It is one of the most effective ways to treat large, recurring hemorrhoids.
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: This procedure involves using a circular stapling device to remove hemorrhoidal tissue and lift the remaining tissue back into its original position.

Everyone’s experience with hemorrhoids is different. Your healthcare provider can help determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your specific situation. If you suspect that you have hemorrhoids or are experiencing painful symptoms, consult your healthcare provider for the most appropriate treatment.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when the blood vessels become swollen and inflamed, which can cause discomfort and pain. Several potential causes and factors can increase the risk of hemorrhoids, including:

• Frequent straining during bowel movements
• A low-fiber diet
• Family history of hemorrhoids
• Prolonged sitting or standing
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Rectal surgery
• Inflammatory bowel disease

Some factors may worsen existing hemorrhoids. For example, insufficient water intake may negatively affect the digestive tract and cause hard stools. In some cases, certain conditions may lead to similar symptoms of hemorrhoids. For example, colorectal cancer can cause similar symptoms, such as rectal bleeding.

Types of hemorrhoids

Choosing the most appropriate treatment for hemorrhoids can depend on the type of hemorrhoid you have. There are four types of hemorrhoids that people may experience: internal, external, prolapsed, and thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum, above the dentate line, an area where you don’t feel pain. They are usually painless but can cause bleeding during bowel movements. When internal hemorrhoids become enlarged, they may become noticeable and can sometimes protrude outside the anus.

External hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids are found under the skin surrounding the anus, below the dentate line. They can cause pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding. In some cases, a blood clot can form, creating a painful and swollen lump called a thrombosed external hemorrhoid.

Prolapsed hemorrhoids

Prolapsed hemorrhoids are a type of internal hemorrhoid that extends outside the anus. When this occurs, the hemorrhoid’s blood supply may become constricted, causing increased discomfort and pain. Prolapsed hemorrhoids may appear as swollen red lumps or bumps, and you may be able to see them by using a mirror. They’re often graded based on the degree of prolapse or how far they extend out of the anus:

• Grade I: Hemorrhoids that bleed but do not prolapse
• Grade II: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and retract on their own (often during a bowel movement)
• Grade III: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and must be pushed back manually
• Grade IV: Hemorrhoids that are prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in; they may contain blood clots or pull much of the lining of the rectum through the anus

Thrombosed hemorrhoids

Thrombosed hemorrhoids occur when the blood vessels within an external hemorrhoid become clotted. It can look like a painful and swollen mass. This type of hemorrhoid generally needs to be treated quickly due to the risk of complications.

How can I speed up hemorrhoid recovery?

Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and painful, but speeding up the recovery process is possible. In addition to the treatment methods mentioned above, here are some other ways to speed up the recovery from hemorrhoids:

• Apply a cold compress: Using ice packs or cold compresses on the affected area may help reduce inflammation. Make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to avoid direct contact with the skin.
• Eat a high-fiber diet: Increasing fiber intake through high-fiber foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help soften stools and avoid constipation. Psyllium husk supplements can also be used to increase fiber intake.
• Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is key for maintaining a healthy lifestyle and easing bowel movements. Aim for at least four to six glasses of water or more per day, depending on your individual needs.
• Avoid heavy lifting: Heavy lifting can increase pressure on the pelvic floor and worsen hemorrhoids. Adjust your daily activities to prevent straining and worsening the condition.

The time it takes for a hemorrhoid to shrink completely depends on how large and severe it is; small hemorrhoids may heal within a few days, while larger ones might take longer. Pushing a hemorrhoid back in may provide temporary relief, but it is not a long-term solution and may not help with healing. While OTC hemorrhoid creams and home remedies can help treat a hemorrhoid, you should consult a medical provider if symptoms persist or worsen.