To treat hemorrhoids, you can follow these approaches:
Home Treatments
- Increase fiber intake: Eat more high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements. Fiber supplements like psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) may also help
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or nonalcoholic fluids daily to keep stools soft
- Avoid straining and long toilet sitting: Do not strain during bowel movements and avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods
- Use topical treatments: Apply over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, ointments (e.g., Preparation H), or suppositories to relieve pain, swelling, and itching
- Warm baths (sitz baths): Soak in warm water several times a day for about 10-15 minutes to ease discomfort
- Cold compresses: Apply ice packs or cold compresses to reduce swelling and pain
- Pain relief: Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen to alleviate pain and swelling
Medical Treatments
If home remedies do not relieve symptoms or if hemorrhoids are severe, doctors may recommend:
- Rubber band ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of internal hemorrhoids to cut off blood supply, causing them to shrink and fall off
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a solution into hemorrhoids to form scar tissue and shrink them
- Infrared photocoagulation or electrocoagulation: Use of heat, infrared light, or electric current to create scar tissue and reduce hemorrhoids
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of large or persistent hemorrhoids, often under anesthesia. This is the most effective treatment for severe or recurring hemorrhoids
- Hemorrhoid stapling: A surgical procedure that blocks blood flow to hemorrhoidal tissue, mainly for internal hemorrhoids
Prevention Tips
- Eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid straining and prolonged sitting on the toilet.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid heavy lifting
In summary, start with lifestyle changes and home remedies for mild hemorrhoids, and consult a healthcare provider if symptoms persist or worsen to consider medical or surgical options
