How long do hemorrhoids last? Treatment and recovery
Some people may need medication or medical procedures to minimize their symptoms and shrink the hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoids can cause pain and make simple activities, such as sitting or walking, uncomfortable or challenging.
In this article, learn more about how long hemorrhoids last and how to get relief.
Duration
There is no set duration for hemorrhoids. Small hemorrhoids may clear up without any treatment within a few days.
Large, external hemorrhoids may take longer to heal and can cause significant pain and discomfort. If hemorrhoids have not resolved within a few days, it is best to see a doctor for treatment.
Risk factors for severe or recurrent hemorrhoids include:
- not getting enough fiber
- being overweight or obese
- being pregnant
- having chronic constipation
- having chronic diarrhea
- aging muscles
- sitting on the toilet for too long
- straining while having a bowel movement
- having anal intercourse
- overusing or abusing enemas or laxatives
Some of the above factors can also make it difficult for hemorrhoids to heal, allowing the problem to persist for longer.
Straining during bowel movements is a common cause of hemorrhoids, but people can make dietary adjustments to reduce their need to strain.
Including plenty of fiber-rich foods in the diet is generally beneficial. Plant fibers from fruits, vegetables, nuts, and grains help collect water in the stool, making it softer and easier to pass.
Supplementing the diet with soluble fiber, such as methylcellulose (Citrucel) or psyllium (Metamucil), may reduce constipation.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps ensure that the body has enough water for healthy digestion, which can also ease constipation.
Lifestyle
Making a few small lifestyle changes can help minimize the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Some tips include:
- Using a small stool to prop up the legs while having a bowel movement. This will change the position of the anal canal, which may make it easier to pass stool.
- Avoiding delaying a bowel movement when the need arises.
- Taking regular showers.
- Gently washing the anus in the shower after each bowel movement or using moist toilet wipes or water from a bidet.
- Taking a warm sitz bath to relieve symptoms.
- Sitting on an ice pack to reduce pain or discomfort.
- Exercising regularly to help stimulate bowel movements.
Spending too much time on the toilet can cause the blood to pool in the veins in the rectum or put unnecessary pressure on them.
While making dietary changes can reduce toilet time, people should also avoid taking a smartphone, newspaper, or book into the restroom.
Hemorrhoids are a common problem during pregnancy. The extra weight that a woman carries during pregnancy may place a strain on the veins in the anus and rectum.
As the uterus grows, it also puts pressure on the veins near the rectum.
Hormonal changes may relax the veins in this area, which can also make hemorrhoids more likely.
Hormonal and physical changes can also cause gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation or diarrhea, which increase a person’s risk of hemorrhoids.
Outlook
Hemorrhoids are usually not severe, but they can be bothersome and make daily life difficult.
How long hemorrhoids last can vary from person to person, but a range of OTC remedies and medical options are available to treat them.
There are also some simple changes that people can make to their diet and lifestyle to achieve symptom relief and prevent new hemorrhoids from forming.
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