To get rid of hemorrhoids, you can try a combination of lifestyle changes, home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, and in severe cases, medical procedures:
Lifestyle and Home Remedies
- Increase fiber intake: Eat more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and consider fiber supplements to soften stools and reduce straining during bowel movements
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help keep stools soft
- Exercise regularly: Moderate aerobic exercise like brisk walking helps stimulate bowel function
- Avoid straining and sitting too long on the toilet: Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge and avoid prolonged sitting
- Warm sitz baths: Soak the anal area in warm water for about 20 minutes several times a day to relieve pain and itching
- Use cold compresses: Applying ice packs can reduce swelling and discomfort
- Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams or wipes containing ingredients like witch hazel, lidocaine, or hydrocortisone can temporarily relieve pain and itching
Over-the-Counter and Medical Treatments
- Stool softeners: These can help ease bowel movements and reduce irritation
- Hemorrhoid creams and ointments: Temporary relief from pain and inflammation
- Medical procedures for persistent or severe hemorrhoids:
- Rubber band ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood flow, causing it to shrink
* Sclerotherapy: Injection of a chemical to shrink hemorrhoids
* Infrared coagulation: Uses infrared light to burn hemorrhoidal tissue
* Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids, effective for large or recurring cases but involves recovery time and possible complications
* Hemorrhoid stapling: Blocks blood flow to hemorrhoids, less painful than hemorrhoidectomy but with some risks
Prevention Tips
- Maintain a high-fiber diet and adequate hydration.
- Exercise regularly.
- Avoid prolonged sitting and straining during bowel movements.
- Use cotton underwear and avoid irritating soaps or detergents
If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare provider for evaluation and possible referral to a specialist such as a gastroenterologist or colorectal surgeon
. In summary, start with dietary and lifestyle changes plus home remedies and OTC products. For severe or persistent hemorrhoids, medical procedures may be necessary to fully resolve the condition