Hemorrhoids occur from pressure placed on the rectum. They can occur as a result of poor diet, such as one with limited fiber or fluids. The weight of a growing baby during pregnancy can also put pressure on the rectum and lead to hemorrhoids. Symptoms of hemorrhoids include pain, burning, itching and bleeding. A hemorrhoid may seem to disappear and then reappear during a bowel movement or strenuous activity. They can be painless when they are no longer inflamed. Home remedies to treat them can be simple pain relief methods. Bleeding hemorrhoids may require medical attention to ensure they are not the result of a more serious health concern. Home treatment may be effective in reducing discomfort until a medical professional can be seen.
Step 1
Take an oral pain reliever according to the directions. This may mean one or two pills every four to six hours.
Step 2
Pour a cup or more of epsom salts into a warm bath of about 2 to 3 inches of water. Soak in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes to provide soothing relief to the affected area and to assist in cleansing the area gently. This can be repeated as often as relief is desired.
Step 3
Dry off after the bath. Be sure to gently pat the sore area. Keeping it clean is imperative, as any open sores from the hemorrhoid may become infected without proper hygiene practices.
Step 4
Wipe or blot the hemorrhoid with a cotton ball soaked in witch hazel or use a commercial hemorrhoid pad product. This can be repeated up to four times per day for seven days unless specified otherwise by a doctor or the product packaging. Repeat this process after a bowel movement to provide relief and help cleanse the area.
Step 5
Apply a thin layer of hydrocortisone cream or commercial hemorrhoid cream to the area. Be sure that the skin is dry before application. This can be repeated up to four times daily unless directed differently by a doctor or the product's specifications.
Step 6
Apply an ice pack to the area as often as needed to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Tips and Warnings
- Avoid heavy lifting when hemorrhoids are inflamed. Lifting can lead to hemorrhoids and may aggravate existing ones as well.
- Some commercial products may not be suitable for use if the hemorrhoids are bleeding. Contact a doctor right away if you notice bleeding with hemorrhoids. Small dots on toilet tissue are common but if blood can be seen in the toilet or in the stool this can be a more serious condition. If the hemorrhoid is black contact your doctor immediately. This can be a sign of blood clot or thrombosed hemorrhoid.
Things You'll Need
- Oral pain reliever
- Stool softener
- High-fiber foods
- Epsom salts
- Cotton balls
- Witch hazel or commercial hemorrhoid pads
- Hydrocortisone cream or commercial hemorrhoid cream
- Ice pack
