5 Ways to Ease Hemorrhoid Pain

Up to 50% of people in the United States experience hemorrhoids in their lifetimes. Hemorrhoids can cause discomfort, itching, and pain — and thankfully, there are ways to relieve the symptoms and speed up healing.

Home remedies can be very effective, but when that’s not enough, Elvira Klause, MD, FACS, and our team can help. We offer incisionless hemorrhoid treatment in Laguna Hills, California. Here are five methods to try to ease the pain associated with hemorrhoids.

Use warm sitz baths

Soaking in a warm sitz bath, which covers just your buttocks and hips, is one of the best ways to relieve hemorrhoid pain and reduce swelling. Fill your bathtub with a few inches of warm water and sit for about 15–20 minutes up to a few times a day to soothe the affected area and boost blood flow.

Apply cold compresses

Along with warm sitz baths, applying a cold compress or ice pack to the area for a few minutes can minimize pain and reduce swelling. Cold compresses are particularly helpful for painful, swollen hemorrhoids. Use a cloth and avoid placing ice directly on your skin.

Increase your fiber and water intake

Constipation and straining are major contributors to hemorrhoids, and increasing fiber in your diet can help soften stools and promote regular bowel movements to reduce strain and pressure on hemorrhoids. Foods high in fiber include vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. 

Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water also helps make stools easier to pass, which alleviates discomfort.

Try over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments

Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and medicated wipes designed specifically for hemorrhoids can offer significant relief from discomfort. 

These products often contain hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine to reduce common hemorrhoid symptoms like pain, itching, and inflammation.

Always read the package and dosing instructions carefully. In most cases, you can apply creams and wipes externally for relief.

Seek professional hemorrhoid care

If you’ve tried home remedies but you’re still dealing with hemorrhoid pain, it may be time to consider professional treatment. Dr. Klause and our team offer two different minimally invasive procedures to shrink hemorrhoids and eliminate discomfort.

Professional treatment can be a good option for persistent or severe cases of hemorrhoids, and many people find significant relief afterward. If hemorrhoid pain has become a regular problem, we might recommend:

Rubber band ligation

In this procedure, Dr. Klause places a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid to  cut off its blood supply. Within a few days, the hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off naturally. This technique is highly effective for internal hemorrhoids, and recovery is usually quick with minimal discomfort.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid that makes it shrink and harden. Over time, the hemorrhoid shrivels and disappears. Sclerotherapy is typically quick, with minimal discomfort and no downtime.

With these five strategies, you don’t have to keep living with hemorrhoid pain. Learn more about your treatment options and schedule a consultation with Dr. Klause today. Request your appointment online or call our office at 949-245-6910.