How to Shrink Hemorrhoids

Apply Witch Hazel Extract. This is a natural plant extract with astringent properties, helping to shrink hemorrhoids and alleviate itching. Witch hazel extract is available at most pharmacies. You can also find creams that contain witch hazel extract.

• After a bowel movement, clean the anal area, then dip a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it to the hemorrhoids.
• If the hemorrhoids become itchy, you can apply more witch hazel extract as needed.

Try over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams. These creams can help alleviate pain. Hemorrhoid ointments like Preparation H contain phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor that works to shrink blood vessels in the anal area. Be sure to follow the directions on the packaging closely to effectively shrink hemorrhoids.

• The active ingredients in these creams and ointments can cause skin damage if used too long, so avoid using them beyond the recommended time on the label.

Apply Ice Packs. Place a small ice pack on the anal area for a few minutes. This technique causes the veins to constrict, helping reduce pain and swelling. Do not apply ice for more than 20 minutes at a time.

Sitz Baths. A sitz bath involves soaking your hips and buttocks in warm water. Pour a sufficient amount of warm water into a large basin (it can fit over the toilet) or sit in a regular bathtub with about 10 cm of warm water. Experts recommend soaking for about 20 minutes after each bowel movement and 2-3 times a day. This method can help relieve itching, reduce irritation, and ease muscle spasms.

• Be sure to gently pat the anal area dry after the sitz bath. Avoid rubbing or scrubbing, as this can cause bleeding and irritation.
• Some people find that adding Epsom salt to the sitz bath further soothes the area. Follow the instructions on the package for the correct amount of salt and dissolve it completely in the water.

Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements. Try to refrain from straining when sitting on the toilet. Straining is a leading cause of hemorrhoids. Don't attempt to defecate unless you feel the urge, and avoid sitting on the toilet for more than 5 minutes.

• Straining, also known as the Valsalva maneuver, increases pressure in the peripheral veins, causing them to dilate and worsen pain.
• Try placing a cushion on the toilet (available at most pharmacies). Sit on the cushion instead of the hard seat to help reduce swelling and prevent new hemorrhoids from forming.

Prevent Constipation. Aim for a bowel movement once a day or every other day to avoid constipation. Constipation often leads to straining, which makes it difficult to shrink hemorrhoids. To prevent constipation, drink plenty of water and increase fiber intake to help regulate bowel movements.

• A high-fiber diet combined with adequate water intake softens stools and makes them easier to pass, reducing pain in hemorrhoids.
• High-fiber foods include broccoli, beans, whole wheat, oatmeal bran, whole grains, and fresh fruits.
• Fiber supplements can also be beneficial. According to Harvard Health, you can start with a small amount and gradually increase to 25-30 grams of fiber per day.
• Take stool softeners like magnesium milk at night to help you have a bowel movement in the morning. Be sure the stool softeners do not interfere with your daily routine.

Try Unverified Natural Remedies. Some herbs and supplements are believed to help shrink hemorrhoids and prevent recurrence. While scientific evidence supporting these remedies is limited, many people report relief using these methods:

• Take triphala capsules available at health food stores. This supplement contains herbs known to support digestive health.
• Use horse chestnut and butcher's broom. These herbs are commonly found in hemorrhoid creams, or you can drink them as teas.
• Use aloe vera. Consume one teaspoon of aloe vera after meals and apply aloe vera gel to hemorrhoids for soothing relief.

Seek Medical Care for Severe Cases. If moderate rectal pain persists for more than a week after trying home remedies, consult a doctor. Also, seek medical attention if you experience severe pain or if external hemorrhoids remain enlarged after 3-7 days of home treatment.

• Use a mirror to check external hemorrhoids. If the hemorrhoids are larger than a coin, seek medical care immediately. Also, consult a doctor if the hemorrhoids are large enough to interfere with bowel movements.
• In older adults, hemorrhoids tend to be more severe and less responsive to home remedies. If you're older, it's best to consult a doctor for proper treatment.

Talk to Your Doctor About Non-Surgical Treatment Options. Hemorrhoids that do not shrink after home treatment can be managed with various procedures. Discuss the following options with your doctor to determine the best approach for your condition:

• Rubber Band Ligation. A rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, gradually causing it to fall off.
• Sclerotherapy. This is the most common hemorrhoid treatment. A liquid is injected into the hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink.
• Infrared Coagulation. A probe is used to target hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments.

Consider Hemorrhoidectomy. This procedure involves the removal of hemorrhoids and surrounding blood vessels, which may reduce the risk of recurrence. Recovery time after surgery typically takes just a few days.

• Seek medical attention in the following situations:
  • External hemorrhoids.
  • Excessive bleeding.
  • Family history of colorectal cancer.
  • Changes in bowel habits.