Hemorrhoid Treatments

Also known as piles, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anal area and lower rectum. Straining too hard during bowel movements, staying on the toilet for long periods of time, chronic constipation and diarrhea, anal sexual intercourse and pregnancy, for example, can cause hemorrhoids. People with low fiber diets and obese individuals are typically at an increased risk for hemorrhoids. Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include itching inside or outside the anus, small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper after bowel movements and swelling or lumps around the anus. There are both external hemorrhoids as well as internal hemorrhoids. Consult your doctor to learn which type of hemorrhoids you may have as well as the proper way to treat them.

If you suspect that you have hemorrhoids but have yet to receive an official diagnosis, it is wise to see a medical professional before using any type of hemorrhoid treatment. While many over the counter treatments are offered, you should still consult your health care provider before using any new hemorrhoid treatment or hemorrhoid relief product for the first time. To ensure best results, only use over-the-counter hemorrhoid products as directed by the manufacturer or your medical provider.

Home treatments for hemorrhoids usually contain one or more ingredients that soothe irritation from the condition. Many products, such as Preparation H y CVS Health Hemorrhoidal Cream, include a numbing agent that can help reduce pain temporarily to keep you comfortable throughout healing. Combining these ointments with a high-fiber diet and other pain-relief medications, such as Tylenol o Motrin, may help mild hemorrhoids heal quickly at home. 

Soaking the affected area in warm water for 10 to15 minutes, up to three times a day, is another way to aid the healing process. You can combine regular soaks with external hemorrhoid treatment creams and other medications as recommended by your doctor.

A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when you experience a blot clot in the area, leading to swelling and pain. This kind of hemorrhoid usually still responds to conservative treatments, such as medicated wipes y lidocaine creams, but may take longer to resolve. Consider seeing your doctor first before treating the symptoms at home as they can determine whether over-the-counter products are suitable for your condition.

Treatment for a thrombosed external hemorrhoid consists of managing the pain and other symptoms until your body heals. As the condition is associated with swelling, anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofeno o naproxeno are often effective for the pain. Hydrocortisone creams and other topical options may be a better choice if you're sensitive to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, but you shouldn't use these treatments for more than a few days unless recommended by your doctor. 

If you're struggling with the symptoms or your hemorrhoid doesn't respond adequately to over-the-counter treatments, your doctor may suggest sclerotherapy or laser coagulation. These minimally invasive treatments cause the thrombosed hemorrhoid to shrink, speeding up its resolution. Little pain occurs afterward, but it may still take a few days before the symptoms resolve completely.

Most people don't require surgery, but your doctor may recommend it if other hemorrhoid treatments fail. Recovery is usually quick, and you can expect to start easing back into your regular activities after a day or two. Taking painkillers and other medications prescribed by your doctor can help keep you comfortable while you heal.