Have you been dealing with pain, itching, or bleeding down there and wondering if it’s something serious? You’re not alone. Hemorrhoids can sneak up on anyone, and though they’re common, they’re also annoying and painful. But here’s the good news: hemorrhoids self-care at home can be surprisingly effective. You don’t always need a hospital visit to get relief.
In this blog, we will break down everything you need to know about hemorrhoids self-care, from symptoms and causes to proven at-home remedies, lifestyle changes, and when it’s time to see a doctor. Dr. Nivedita Pandey, a US-trained, board-certified Senior Gastroenterologist, brings you medically sound advice in simple language you can trust.
What are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum. They can cause pain, itching, and rectal bleeding. These are a natural part of our bodies. They might grow bigger and hurt, becoming hemorrhoids. Learning what types and what causes them helps manage this issue.
About one in every 20 Americans gets hemorrhoids. This makes them a common health problem.
How can I tell if I have hemorrhoids or something else?
It starts with symptoms that might feel mild but get worse if ignored.
Types:
- Internal hemorrhoids: Usually painless but may bleed
- External hemorrhoids: Painful, itchy, may form hard lumps
Read: Internal and External Hemorrhoids
Common signs:
- Pain or discomfort while sitting or passing stools
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet
If these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s time to seek medical advice to rule out other issues like fissures, polyps, or cancer.
What are the main causes and risk factors for hemorrhoids?
Understanding what causes them is the first step in hemorrhoids self-care.
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Low-fiber diet
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Pregnancy (due to pressure on pelvic veins)
- Aging (veins weaken over time)
Stat check: Over 75% of people experience hemorrhoids at some point in their life. (Harvard Health)
10 Hemorrhoids Self-Care Tips That Actually Work: Doctor-Approved At-Home Treatments
Let’s break down the most effective, research-backed treatments and daily habits you can start today to relieve your symptoms and prevent flare-ups.
1. Soothing Sitz Baths: Instant Relief for Itching and Pain
A sitz bath is a warm, shallow soak designed specifically to ease hemorrhoid symptoms.
How to do it:
- Fill a tub or a sitz basin with 2–3 inches of warm water
- Sit in it for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times a day, especially after a bowel movement
- Add Epsom salt or baking soda to reduce inflammation further
Pro Tip: You can purchase a sitz bath kit designed to sit on your toilet seat, convenient, mess-free, and easy to use.
2. Hemorrhoid Creams: Targeted Relief from Swelling and Pain
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams provide immediate but temporary relief by reducing inflammation, numbing pain, and protecting irritated skin.
Key ingredients to look for:
| Ingredient | Action |
|---|---|
| Hydrocortisone | Anti-inflammatory |
| Lidocaine | Pain relief |
| Witch hazel | Natural astringent |
| Zinc oxide | Skin protectant |
| Product Type | Example | Pros | Cons |
| Lidocaine Cream | Lignocaine gel | Fast pain relief | Temporary relief only |
| Hydrocortisone Ointment | Preparation H | Reduces inflammation & itching | Long-term use thins skin |
| Suppositories | Anusol | Treats internal hemorrhoids | Can be uncomfortable to insert |
Look for FDA-approved ingredients when choosing hemorrhoid self-treatment options.
3. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is one of the most effective natural remedies for hemorrhoids. It reduces swelling, itching, and pain through its tannin content, which shrinks blood vessels.
How to use:
- Apply pre-moistened witch hazel wipes
- Dab a few drops of witch hazel liquid onto cotton and apply gently
- Use witch hazel creams for longer-lasting comfort
Safe to use multiple times a day. No prescription needed.
4. Ice Packs: Quick Pain Relief and Swelling Reduction
Applying a cold compress or ice pack constricts blood vessels, reducing inflammation and dulling sharp pain.
Instructions:
- Wrap ice in a clean towel (never apply directly to skin)
- Apply for 10–15 minutes, 3–4 times daily
- Use specialized hemorrhoid ice packs if preferred
5. High-Fiber Diet: The Core of Hemorrhoids Self-Care
Fiber softens stools, making bowel movements less painful and reducing strain (a key cause of hemorrhoids).
Fiber-rich foods to add:
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Fruits | Apples, pears, berries, prunes |
| Vegetables | Broccoli, spinach, carrots |
| Whole grains | Oats, quinoa, brown rice |
| Legumes | Lentils, beans, chickpeas |
Aim for 25–35 grams of fiber/day. Introduce fiber gradually to avoid bloating or gas.
Sample 1-Day Hemorrhoid-Friendly Meal Plan:
| Time | Meal |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Oatmeal with chia seeds & banana |
| 12:00 PM | Brown rice, dal, sautéed spinach |
| 3:00 PM | Apple slices with peanut butter |
| 6:00 PM | Quinoa salad with veggies, olive oil |
| 8:00 PM | Warm water + handful of soaked raisins |
Supplement if needed: Use psyllium husk (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel).
6. Stay Hydrated: Water + Fiber = Hemorrhoid Prevention
Water works hand-in-hand with fiber. It helps soften stools and keeps your digestive system moving smoothly.
Daily goal:
- Drink 1.5–2 liters (50–68 ounces) of water per day
- Spread your intake evenly across the day
- Consider prune juice for natural laxative effects
7. Stool Softeners: Short-Term Constipation Relief
If constipation is a major trigger for your hemorrhoids, stool softeners offer immediate help.
Recommended:
- Docusate sodium (100 mg once or twice daily)
- Start using as you increase fiber intake
- Taper off once your bowel habits improve
Avoid long-term dependence. Use only as a bridge while your diet improves.
8. Move Your Body: Physical Activity Supports Digestion
Regular movement promotes intestinal motility, helping prevent constipation and straining.
Best exercises:
| Type | Frequency |
|---|---|
| Brisk walking | 20–30 minutes daily |
| Yoga | Gentle stretching daily |
| Avoid heavy lifting | Can worsen hemorrhoid flare |
9. Adopt Hemorrhoid-Friendly Toilet Habits
How and when you go matters. The wrong habits can worsen hemorrhoids.
Follow these bathroom best practices:
| Habit | What to do |
|---|---|
| Limit toilet time | No more than 5 minutes |
| Don’t strain | Let the urge come naturally |
| Use moist wipes | Prefer alcohol-free baby wipes |
| Elevate your feet | Use a toilet stool (squat position) |
Try the “squatty potty” method — it aligns your body better for easier bowel movements.
10. Wear Breathable Cotton and Avoid Irritants
Simple clothing changes can reduce irritation and support healing.
Do’s:
- Choose cotton underwear
- Keep the anal area dry and clean
- Use unscented, gentle soap when washing
Don’ts:
- Avoid scratching the area
- Skip synthetic, tight-fitting fabrics
- Don’t use perfumed toilet paper
What NOT to Do During Hemorrhoid Flare-Ups
Here are common mistakes that worsen hemorrhoids:
| Mistake | Why It’s Harmful |
|---|---|
| Adding too much fiber fast | Causes bloating or gas |
| Holding in bowel movements | Leads to hard stools and straining |
| Sitting too long | Increases pressure in anal area |
| Lifting heavy weights | Promotes internal pressure and flare-ups |
| Ignoring symptoms | May delay diagnosis of more serious issues |
Preventing Hemorrhoids
In addition to curing hemorrhoids, you can stop new ones from forming. Eat lots of fiber, drink plenty of water, and stay active. This helps keep your bowel movements easy and regular. It stops you from putting too much pressure on your bottom, which can cause hemorrhoids. Try not to sit or stand for a long time. When nature calls, go to the bathroom right away. This is important for stopping hemorrhoids from forming. Keeping your bowels healthy and living well is the main way to do this.
| Lifestyle Changes to Prevent Hemorrhoids | Benefits |
|---|---|
| High-Fiber Diet | Softens stool and reduces straining during bowel movements, lowering the risk of hemorrhoids. |
| Adequate Hydration | Prevents constipation and makes bowel movements more comfortable, helping to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. |
| Regular Exercise | Improves bowel function and circulation, which may help prevent the development of new hemorrhoids. |
| Avoiding Prolonged Sitting or Standing | Reduces the strain and pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, thereby lowering the chances of hemorrhoids. |
Make these changes part of your daily life. This will help you avoid getting hemorrhoids and stop them from coming back. It’s all about keeping your bowel health in check and living a balanced lifestyle.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should consult a gastroenterologist for hemorrhoids if:
- Symptoms last more than a week
- There’s persistent bleeding
- You experience severe pain
- Home care is not helping
Your doctor will check you and might do some tests. They could suggest treatments like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or even surgery. A small number of people with hemorrhoids might need surgery. Remember, always seek help if your hemorrhoid symptoms are severe or if home treatments don’t work.
Diagnosing Hemorrhoids
The first thing doctors do is find out if you have hemorrhoids. They use several ways to do this.
Digital Examination
Doctors sometimes do a digital rectal exam. They wear a glove and use lubrication. They check inside for any lumps or swelling. This tells them if you might have hemorrhoids. They also find out how bad they are.
Visual Inspection
Doctors also look inside with tools like an anoscope. Or a sigmoidoscope may be used. This helps them see if you have internal or external hemorrhoids. It’s a way for them to make sure of the diagnosis. They can also see if other problems are happening.
Getting a correct diagnosis of hemorrhoids is the start. It helps figure out the best treatment plan. By doing a careful digital rectal exam and visual inspection, doctors know more. They can suggest how to best manage your hemorrhoids.
Medical Treatments for Hemorrhoids
If simple home or store treatments don’t work, or if a person has severe or often coming back hemorrhoids, other medical treatments might be needed. These can involve using small rubber bands, injecting a solution, or applying heat to the affected area.
Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation is a simple process. It involves a small rubber band placed around the hemorrhoid’s base. This band stops its blood flow, making it shrink and fall off in about a week. It’s a good way to treat tougher or advanced clots.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy shrinks the hemorrhoid by injecting a solution. It’s done outside the hospital and is useful for more serious or repeating cases. This treatment can be very effective.
Coagulation Techniques
Coagulation methods use laser, light, or heat to treat bleeding hemorrhoids. This technique is easy and can help when other treatments don’t work. It’s good for advanced cases.
Surgical Procedures
Sometimes, when other treatments don’t work, surgery might be needed for bad or repeating hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoidectomy is the surgery to remove extra hemorrhoidal tissue. It’s seen as the best and full way to treat severe hemorrhoid surgery. This surgery is usually done with the person asleep.
Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy removes extra hemorrhoidal tissue in a surgery considered the best for severe hemorrhoidectomy. It’s usually done under general anesthesia.
Hemorrhoid Stapling
Hemorrhoid stapling (stapled hemorrhoidopexy) is a different surgery. It uses a stapling tool to move hemorrhoids back into the body. It’s less painful than a hemorrhoidectomy. But it has a bigger chance of the problem coming back. Doctors use both surgeries when other treatments don’t work.
Preparing for a Doctor’s Appointment
If you have symptoms of hemorrhoids, making a doctor’s appointment is key. Remember any diet or prep instructions. Note your symptoms, their duration, normal diet, fiber intake, and meds. This info aids in a spot-on diagnosis and treatment plan.
Preparing questions is also smart. Ask about symptoms’ cause, treatment choices, and recovery time. Your prep will make your visit more informative. It helps with finding the best way to handle your hemorrhoids.
Heal Hemorrhoids Naturally And Know When to Seek Expert Help
Hemorrhoids can be frustrating, but with the right self-care strategies, you can get relief fast, and prevent future flare-ups. From fiber to sitz baths, hydration to hygiene, each small habit plays a big role in your healing journey.
But if your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t wait.
Book your consultation with Dr. Nivedita Pandey — South Delhi’s trusted, US-trained, board-certified Senior Gastroenterologist & Hepatologist.
Dr. Pandey specializes in:
- Digestive & liver disorders
- Fatty liver, NASH, viral hepatitis
- Cirrhosis and liver transplant care
- Obesity-related gut issues
- Hormonal gut health for women
As one of the few female gastroenterologists in South Delhi, Dr. Pandey offers a safe, compassionate space for women and families.
Take the first step toward better digestive health.
FAQ
What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins found in the anus and rectum. They cause pain, itching, and bleeding. They come in two types, internal and external.
What causes hemorrhoids?
The main causes are straining, constipation, pregnancy, obesity, and old age. Leading a sedentary life and not eating enough fiber can also lead to hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting or standing is another factor.
How can I treat bleeding from hemorrhoids at home?
Warm baths, cold compresses, witch hazel, and aloe vera are effective home treatments for hemorrhoids.
What over-the-counter treatments are available for hemorrhoids?
Over-the-counter products like Preparation H creams and ointments help with symptoms. Stool softeners and fiber supplements can ease discomfort as well.
How can dietary and lifestyle changes help with hemorrhoids?
Eating more fiber, drinking plenty of water, and staying active are beneficial. They can help soften your stool, improve your bowel movements, and lessen your hemorrhoid risk.
When should I seek medical attention for hemorrhoids?
If home care does not relieve your symptoms in a week, seek a doctor. Also, for severe pain, heavy bleeding, or blood clots, get medical help.
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
Doctors check by feeling inside the rectum and looking at it. This allows them to diagnose hemorrhoids and exclude other issues.
What are the medical treatments for hemorrhoids?
If simple treatments do not work, more advanced options like ligation, sclerotherapy, or coagulation are available.
When is surgery recommended for hemorrhoids?
Doctors suggest surgery for severe, persistent hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments.
How can I prepare for a doctor’s appointment for hemorrhoids?
Before your visit, note symptoms, bowel habits, diet, and medications. Also, include any supplements you might be taking. Your doctor will use this to help with your diagnosis and treatment.
Source Links
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- https://www.saintlukeskc.org/health-library/treating-hemorrhoids-self-care
- https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics
- https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies-for-hemorrhoids
- https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/hemorrrhoid-home-care
- https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/hemorrhoids/self-care
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/food-for-piles
- https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/mayo-clinic-q-and-a-try-self-care-steps-for-relief-from-hemorrhoids/
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/hemorrhoids-high-fiber-diet
- https://www.houstonmethodist.org/blog/articles/2022/apr/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-hemorrhoids/
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- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/procedures/hemorrhoidectomy
- https://www.healthline.com/health/hemorrhoid-surgery
- https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/treatment
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- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3342598/
- https://www.aarp.org/health/healthy-living/info-2024/hemorrhoids-home-remedies.html
About The Author
This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Nivedita Pandey, Senior Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, ensuring accurate and reliable health information.
Dr. Nivedita Pandey is a U.S.-trained gastroenterologist specializing in pre and post-liver transplant care, as well as managing chronic gastrointestinal disorders. Known for her compassionate and patient-centered approach, Dr. Pandey is dedicated to delivering the highest quality of care to each patient.
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