Home Remedies and Medical Treatments for Hemorrhoids (Piles)

Hemorrhoids (piles) are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Most cases improve with conservative measures.

Home Remedies (First-Line)

• Sitz Baths: Warm water (10–15 cm deep) for 15 minutes, 2–3× daily. Reduces pain, itching, and sphincter spasm.
• Topical Witch Hazel: Astringent, anti-inflammatory; apply with pad or cotton ball 3–4× daily.
• Cold Compresses: Ice pack wrapped in cloth, 10–15 minutes, several times daily. Reduces swelling.
• Oral NSAIDs: Ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain.
• High-Fiber Diet: 25–35 g/day (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes). Softens stool.
• Hydration: 2–3 L water daily.
• Fiber Supplements: Psyllium husk, methylcellulose if diet insufficient.
• Good Hygiene: Gentle cleansing with water; avoid harsh soaps/wipes. Pat dry.
• Don't Strain or Delay Bowel Movements.

Medical Procedures (If Conservative Fails)

• Rubber Band Ligation: Most common office procedure; band cuts off blood supply; pile sloughs off in ~1 week.
• Sclerotherapy: Inject sclerosant to shrink pile; best for small internal hemorrhoids.
• Infrared Coagulation / Bipolar Coagulation: Heat seals vessels.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical excision for large, thrombosed, or prolapsed piles. Higher pain, longer recovery.
• Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: Staples prolapsed tissue back; less pain than excision, but higher recurrence.

When to See a Doctor

• Bleeding persists >1 week despite home care.
• Significant pain, thrombosis (acute painful lump).
• Prolapse that doesn't reduce.
• Rectal bleeding with weight loss, change in bowel habits, or age >45 (rule out colorectal cancer).
• Fever or signs of infection.

Most hemorrhoids resolve with fiber, fluids, and time. Don't suffer silently—effective treatments exist.