How to Treat Hemorrhoids at Home

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or around the anus. They are common and often cause itching, pain, swelling, and rectal bleeding.

Many people want to know how to treat hemorrhoids at home before considering medical procedures. Fortunately, mild hemorrhoids often improve with simple home treatments that reduce inflammation and prevent further irritation.

Home care focuses on improving bowel habits, reducing pressure on rectal veins, and soothing irritated tissue.

Increase Fiber Intake

A high-fiber diet softens stool and reduces straining during bowel movements, one of the main causes of hemorrhoids.

High-fiber foods include:

• Whole grains
• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Beans and legumes
• Nuts and seeds

Most adults should aim for 25–35 grams of fiber per day. Fiber supplements such as psyllium may be used if dietary intake is insufficient.

Drink Plenty of Water

Adequate hydration keeps stool soft and easier to pass, reducing pressure on rectal veins.

Most adults benefit from drinking 6–8 glasses of water daily, but needs vary. Hydration works with fiber to prevent constipation.

Take Warm Sitz Baths

Sitz baths involve soaking the anal area in warm water for 10–15 minutes. Benefits include:

• Reducing pain
• Decreasing swelling
• Improving blood circulation
• Relaxing anal muscles

Perform sitz baths two to three times daily, especially after bowel movements.

Use Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Creams

Non-prescription creams and ointments can relieve symptoms like itching, swelling, and discomfort. Common ingredients include:

• Hydrocortisone – reduces inflammation
• Local anesthetics – relieve pain
• Witch hazel – soothes irritated tissue

Topical medications should be used only as directed by a healthcare professional.

Apply Cold Compresses

Cold therapy may reduce swelling and discomfort. Apply a cold pack for 10–15 minutes to the affected area.

• Especially effective for external hemorrhoids
• Always wrap ice packs in a cloth to avoid skin irritation

Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements

Straining increases pressure on rectal veins and worsens hemorrhoids. Healthy bowel habits include:

• Responding promptly to the urge to pass stool
• Avoiding prolonged toilet sitting
• Allowing bowel movements to occur naturally

Limit Time Spent Sitting

Prolonged sitting increases pressure on anal veins and can aggravate hemorrhoids.

Tips to reduce pressure:

• Stand and stretch regularly
• Walk a few minutes every hour
• Use cushions for comfort

Improve Bathroom Habits

• Avoid reading or using your phone on the toilet
• Limit toilet time to a few minutes
• Use soft toilet paper
• Gently clean the area after bowel movements

These practices help reduce irritation and pressure.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Excess weight increases pressure on rectal veins. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can reduce hemorrhoid risk and improve symptoms.

When Home Treatment May Not Be Enough

Home remedies often relieve mild hemorrhoids. Seek medical care if you experience:

• Persistent bleeding
• Severe pain
• A large lump near the anus
• Symptoms lasting more than a week
• Recurrent hemorrhoids

Medical Treatments for Persistent Hemorrhoids

If symptoms do not improve, medical treatments include:

Office Procedures

• Rubber band ligation
• Infrared coagulation
• Sclerotherapy

These procedures reduce blood flow to hemorrhoids, helping them shrink.

Surgical Procedures

Severe hemorrhoids may require:

• Hemorrhoidectomy – surgical removal of hemorrhoidal tissue
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy – repositions prolapsed hemorrhoids and reduces blood flow

Surgery is typically recommended for large, persistent, or prolapsed hemorrhoids.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Seek medical attention if you notice:

• Persistent rectal bleeding
• Severe anal pain
• A growing lump near the anus
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss

A colorectal specialist can determine whether symptoms are caused by hemorrhoids or another condition.

Learn More About Hemorrhoids

You may also explore these guides:

• Hemorrhoids Overview
• Hemorrhoids Symptoms
• Hemorrhoids Procedures
• Hemorrhoids FAQ
• Hemorrhoids Images & Diagrams