Hemorrhoids are caused most often by excessive straining during a bowel movement or other activities that weaken or cause inflammation of anal tissue. No matter how the hemorrhoids started, it is usually a short-term problem and can be remedied at home. If the problem cannot be fixed at home, seek medical attention because other conditions, such as abscesses, fistulae and cancer, can cause similar symptoms.
Topical Treatments
According to the the Mayo Clinic, home treatment usually starts with a topical cream containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel. Both of these ingredients will work to reduce inflammation, pain and itching. According to the Mayo Clinic, most of these creams should not be used for more than a week without a doctor's recommendation because of possible side effects.
Sitz Baths
The Medical Encyclopedia recommends sitz baths. This can be done at home in a bathtub or a sitz tub can be purchased. Either way, soak the anus in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day to help decrease symptoms. The water needs to be high enough to reach the tissue around the anus.
Stool Softeners and Diet
Over-the-counter stool softeners that contain psyllium husk or methycellulose will help to bulk up the stool and cause looser, softer stools to decrease the strain of a bowel movement. The National Institutes of Health recommends that you first try natural stool softeners, such as drinking six to eight glasses of water a day, eating more fruits and vegetables, and cardio exercise. The fruits and vegetables contain natural forms of fiber as well as whole grains and might be easier on the digestive system compared with stool softeners. Additionally, eating well and exercising regularly will help prevent the recurrence of hemorrhoids.
In-Office Procedures
Several options can be pursued in a doctor's office. One involves blocking the blood flow to the irritated tissue with the use of small rubber bands, called rubber band ligation. Another method involves injecting the hemorrhoid with a chemical that will cause the tissue to shrink. The last in-office procedure is called infrared coagulation. This involves the use of an infrared heat lamp, similar to those used in fast food restaurants or a laser to harden and shrink the hemorrhoid. The most effective procedure with the least likelihood of recurrence is the rubber band ligation, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Surgery
According to the National Institutes of Health, severe internal or external hemorrhoids can require surgical intervention. The hemorrhoid can be removed through a hemorrhoidectomy or the blood supply can be cut off with the use of surgical staples. Both of these surgeries have complications ranging from difficulty voiding the bladder, infections, risk of recurrence and anal prolapse. The Mayo Clinic indicates that these procedures are painful and the risk of side effects might make it more worthwhile having an in-office procedure.
