Treating Hemorrhoids at Home

You can treat hemorrhoids at home using sitz baths and products that contain witch hazel in combination with other inexpensive remedies. If you feel very sensitive, you can use baby wipes to clean the area.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a great way to treat the discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. This natural ingredient also helps to dramatically shrink the size of hemorrhoids and brings temporary relief. You can apply witch hazel through a sitz bath or directly, using a cotton ball for at least a few minutes.

Olive Oil

Olive oil is another inexpensive home treatment for hemorrhoids. This oil helps reduce itching and swelling. Never apply olive oil internally, only to hemorrhoids that are considered external.

Sitz Bath

Many people are surprised to learn that simple water can soothe many of the discomforts of hemorrhoids. Soak the rectum for 10 minutes every day. After soaking, use cold compresses on the area to reduce swelling. To properly soak the area, you may need to invest in a sitz bath basin.

If you are suffering from a flare up of symptoms, soak in a sitz bath for 10 minutes several times per day, then apply a cold compress to the inflamed area for additional relief. Another option is to sit in a warm bath while keeping the knees elevated. The warm water can help ease inflammation and irritation. Slightly warm water increases blood flow to the area, which in turn keeps pain and swelling to a minimum. This combination keeps symptoms under control to allow healing.

In many cases, you can treat hemorrhoids at home. In some cases, it is not even necessary to see a doctor, especially if your symptoms are minor. However, if you have chronic hemorrhoids, keep remedies on hand; this lets you treat symptoms as soon as they begin. Starting treatment right away increases the chances to successfully treat your specific hemorrhoid needs at home.