Hemorrhoids often improve with high-fiber diets, hydration, topical treatments, and proper hygiene.
Understanding Hemorrhoids and Their Causes
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located around the anus or lower rectum. They’re similar to varicose veins that form in the legs but occur in a sensitive area that can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. Hemorrhoids develop when increased pressure causes these veins to stretch and swell.
Several factors contribute to hemorrhoid formation. Straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, sitting for long periods, pregnancy, obesity, and aging all increase pressure in the rectal veins. Even heavy lifting or intense physical exertion can play a role.
Knowing what causes hemorrhoids helps target effective treatments. The key is reducing pressure on the veins and soothing inflammation to encourage healing.
Dietary Changes: The First Line of Defense
One of the most effective ways to help hemorrhoids go away is by improving your diet. A diet rich in fiber softens stools and promotes regular bowel movements without straining. This reduces pressure on swollen veins.
Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily from sources like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds. Foods such as apples with skin, berries, broccoli, carrots, oats, brown rice, lentils, and beans are excellent choices.
Drinking plenty of water is equally important. Staying hydrated helps fiber work better by keeping stools soft and bulky. Adults should aim for at least 8 glasses (about 2 liters) of water daily unless otherwise directed by a healthcare provider.
Fiber supplements like psyllium husk or methylcellulose can help if dietary intake is insufficient. However, increasing fiber should be gradual to avoid gas or bloating.
Fiber Sources and Their Benefits
| Food Type | Fiber Content (per serving) | Additional Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Oatmeal (1 cup cooked) | 4 grams | Lowers cholesterol; heart-healthy |
| Lentils (1/2 cup cooked) | 8 grams | High protein; stabilizes blood sugar |
| Raspberries (1 cup) | 8 grams | Rich in antioxidants; anti-inflammatory |
Hydration’s Role in Healing Hemorrhoids
Water keeps everything moving smoothly through your digestive tract. Dehydration makes stools hard and difficult to pass—leading to straining that worsens hemorrhoids. Drinking enough fluids prevents constipation and allows natural healing.
Besides plain water, herbal teas without caffeine are good options. Avoid excessive caffeine and alcohol since they can dehydrate you.
Maintaining adequate hydration also supports overall skin health around the anus. This reduces irritation and itching often linked with hemorrhoids.
Topical Treatments That Provide Relief
Topical remedies offer quick comfort by reducing pain, swelling, and itching caused by hemorrhoids. Over-the-counter creams containing hydrocortisone reduce inflammation effectively but should not be used longer than one week without a doctor’s advice.
Witch hazel pads or ointments are natural alternatives that soothe irritated skin gently and reduce swelling. Aloe vera gel also calms inflammation when applied carefully to the affected area.
For severe discomfort or bleeding, medicated suppositories may be recommended by healthcare providers to deliver relief internally.
How to Apply Topical Treatments Properly
- Clean the area gently with warm water after bowel movements.
- Pat dry with soft tissue—avoid rubbing.
- Apply a thin layer of cream or ointment using clean hands.
- Use witch hazel pads as needed for soothing relief.
- Avoid scented soaps or harsh wipes that irritate sensitive skin.
The Importance of Proper Hygiene Habits
Keeping the anal area clean but not overly dry is crucial for healing hemorrhoids. Washing with warm water after bowel movements removes irritants without harsh scrubbing that worsens symptoms.
Avoid using rough toilet paper; instead opt for soft or moist wipes free from alcohol and fragrances. Sitz baths—soaking the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes—several times a day promote circulation and relieve pain.
Wearing loose cotton underwear allows airflow which prevents moisture buildup that can cause itching or infection.
Avoiding Strain: Lifestyle Adjustments That Matter
Straining during bowel movements is a major culprit behind hemorrhoid flare-ups. To prevent this:
- Don’t delay going when you feel the urge.
- Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods.
- Use a footstool to elevate your feet while sitting on the toilet—this position straightens the rectum making elimination easier.
- Engage in regular physical activity like walking to stimulate bowel function.
Weight management also reduces abdominal pressure contributing to hemorrhoid development.
The Role of Exercise in Hemorrhoid Recovery
Gentle exercise improves blood flow throughout your body—including your pelvic area—to speed healing of swollen veins. Activities such as walking, swimming, yoga, or cycling support digestive health without strain.
Avoid heavy lifting or intense workouts until symptoms improve since these can worsen vein pressure temporarily.
When Medical Intervention Becomes Necessary
Most hemorrhoids respond well to home care within a few days to weeks. However, if symptoms persist despite treatment—or if bleeding is heavy—you should see a healthcare professional promptly.
Procedures such as rubber band ligation (cutting off blood supply), sclerotherapy (injection), infrared coagulation (burning tissue), or surgical removal may be required for severe cases.
Doctors will also rule out other causes of rectal bleeding like polyps or colorectal cancer before proceeding with invasive treatments.
Summary Table: Home Remedies vs Medical Options for Hemorrhoids
| Treatment Type | Description | When Used |
|---|---|---|
| Diet & Hydration | Aim for high-fiber foods + plenty of fluids. | First step; ongoing prevention. |
| Topical Creams & Sitz Baths | Creams reduce swelling; baths soothe pain. | Mild-to-moderate symptoms. |
| Surgical Procedures | Bands/surgery remove persistent lumps. | If home remedies fail or bleeding worsens. |
Key Takeaways: What Helps Hemorrhoids Go Away?
➤ Increase fiber intake to soften stools and reduce strain.
➤ Stay hydrated to promote easier bowel movements.
➤ Avoid prolonged sitting to reduce pressure on veins.
➤ Use warm sitz baths to soothe irritation and pain.
➤ Practice good hygiene to prevent infection and discomfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
What helps hemorrhoids go away naturally?
Hemorrhoids often improve with a high-fiber diet and proper hydration. Eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains softens stools and reduces straining, which helps swollen veins heal. Drinking plenty of water is also essential to keep stools soft and promote regular bowel movements.
How does diet help hemorrhoids go away?
A diet rich in fiber helps hemorrhoids go away by preventing constipation and reducing pressure during bowel movements. Fiber sources like oats, lentils, and berries bulk up stools, making them easier to pass without straining the rectal veins.
Can hydration help hemorrhoids go away faster?
Yes, staying well-hydrated helps hemorrhoids go away faster by keeping stools soft and preventing constipation. Drinking at least eight glasses of water daily supports digestive health and reduces the need for straining during bowel movements.
Do topical treatments help hemorrhoids go away?
Topical treatments can soothe inflammation and reduce discomfort, helping hemorrhoids go away more comfortably. Creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel relieve itching and swelling but should be used alongside dietary changes for best results.
What lifestyle changes help hemorrhoids go away permanently?
Lifestyle changes such as avoiding prolonged sitting, exercising regularly, and managing weight help hemorrhoids go away by reducing pressure on rectal veins. Combined with a fiber-rich diet and hydration, these habits support long-term prevention and healing.
Conclusion – What Helps Hemorrhoids Go Away?
What helps hemorrhoids go away boils down to reducing pressure on swollen veins while soothing inflammation and irritation. A high-fiber diet paired with ample hydration forms the backbone of effective treatment by preventing hard stools and straining during bowel movements.
Topical applications like hydrocortisone creams or witch hazel provide fast relief from pain and itching while proper hygiene practices keep the area clean without irritation. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding prolonged sitting on toilets and incorporating gentle exercise enhance recovery further.
If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or worsen with heavy bleeding or severe pain, medical evaluation becomes essential for targeted intervention through minimally invasive procedures or surgery.
By following these proven steps patiently yet consistently, most people find significant relief from hemorrhoid discomfort—and often complete resolution—without complications.