Can Hemorrhoids Go Away on Their Own?
Most resolve on their own but some need medical attention
Most resolve on their own but some need medical attention
Hemorrhoids are an irritating, often painful condition. They occur when the veins around the anus rectum become swollen and inflamed due to increased pressure.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, affect millions of Americans, about 1 in 20.
While they can be uncomfortable, they are usually not harmful. However, if home treatments do not help or symptoms worsen, you should see your doctor.
“If you still have symptoms after a week, or you have rectal bleeding, call your provider for an appointment,” says Allison Theberge, MD, a family medicine physician at Scripps Coastal Medical Center Eastlake.
“Most hemorrhoids go away on their own in a few days,” says Dr. Theberge. “But some may need medical intervention.”
If you need treatment, doctors may recommend certain procedures to shrink or remove the hemorrhoids.
What are types of hemorrhoids?
There are two main types of hemorrhoids: external and internal. External hemorrhoids occur under the skin around the anus and may cause significant pain and discomfort. Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and typically cause less pain unless they prolapse.
What causes hemorrhoids?
Several factors contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
Age matters. About half of adults over 50 will experience hemorrhoids. As we age, the tissues in the rectum and anus weaken, making them more likely to feel increased pressure.
Pregnant women often get hemorrhoids due to increased pressure on the pelvic area and lower digestive tract. The pressure comes from the growing fetus, along with hormonal changes and constipation.
Other causes include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Prolonged sitting on the toilet
- Frequently lifting heavy objects
Symptoms of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid symptoms vary depending on whether the inflamed veins are external or internal.
External hemorrhoids may cause anal itching and pain, especially while seated. Also, you may feel one or more tender lumps around the anal area. Scratching, rubbing or excessively cleaning the area can make symptoms worse.
With internal hemorrhoids, you may notice bright red blood when you have a bowel movement. Internal hemorrhoids are not usually painful unless they fall through the anal opening, which is called prolapsing.
While hemorrhoids are not dangerous, they can develop complications. An external hemorrhoid may become infected or develop blood clots. Internal hemorrhoid bleeding may lead to anemia, or a low red blood cell count.
Strangulation of a prolapsed hemorrhoid cuts off blood flow. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate attention.
How to treat hemorrhoids at home
Most hemorrhoids resolve within a few days with proper care.
Simple home treatments include:
- Eat more high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
- Drink plenty of fluids to soften stools and make them easier to pass.
- Limit coffee and alcoholic beverages as they may irritate the area.
- Avoid straining during a bowel movement to reduce pressure on the veins.
- Use a fiber supplement or a gentle stool softener. Add the fiber supplement gradually to prevent bloating.
- Take a warm bath or a sitz bath to ease irritation. Adding Epsom salt can help even more. After your bath, gently dry the area with soft toilet paper or a clean towel.
- Clean the anal area with a moist towel or baby wipe after a bowel movement. This can help reduce irritation.
- Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams or suppositories can help with mild symptoms. Make sure to follow the directions carefully.
When to see the doctor
If at-home remedies do not provide relief, it may be time to see a doctor.
“Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of bleeding, but we want to rule out other conditions that can cause bleeding, such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis and cancer,” Dr. Theberge says.
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, fever or abdominal pain.
Doctors can diagnose external hemorrhoids through visual examination and internal hemorrhoids through a digital rectal exam or an anoscopy.
“If medical treatment for hemorrhoids is needed, we may use various procedures to cut off the blood supply and/or cause scar tissue to form, both of which shrink the hemorrhoid,” Dr. Theberge.
One common treatment for hemorrhoids is rubber band ligation. In this procedure, a small rubber band is placed around the base of an internal hemorrhoid. This cuts off blood flow and helps the hemorrhoid shrink.
In severe cases, a hemorrhoidectomy may be performed to remove large external or prolapsed internal hemorrhoids.
How to prevent hemorrhoids
Some people get hemorrhoids more often than others, but lifestyle changes can help lower the risk.
You can reduce your risk by eating more fiber. Drink plenty of fluids and limit your time on the toilet. If you’re not ready to go, come back later.
Exercise regularly to keep your bowel movements regular. This can also help prevent constipation. Use proper techniques or avoid heavy lifting to reduce strain on your pelvic area.
“By taking these steps, you can manage and lower the risk of getting hemorrhoids in the future,” Dr. Theberge says. “If you have ongoing symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor for help.”