Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. They can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum. Hemorrhoids are a common problem, affecting up to 50% of adults at some point in their lives.
There are a number of things you can do to shrink hemorrhoids fast, both at home and with medical treatment. Home remedies include applying cold compresses, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and using witch hazel wipes. Medical treatments include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and hemorrhoidectomy.
In this article, we will discuss the various ways to shrink hemorrhoids fast, including home remedies, medical treatments, and lifestyle changes. We will also provide tips on how to prevent hemorrhoids from coming back.
what shrinks hemorrhoids fast
Hemorrhoids can be a painful and embarrassing problem, but there are a number of things you can do to shrink them fast.
- Sitz baths
- Cold compresses
- Witch hazel wipes
- Over-the-counter pain relievers
- Rubber band ligation
- Sclerotherapy
- Hemorrhoidectomy
- Lifestyle changes
In addition to the above, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help prevent hemorrhoids from coming back, such as eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting regular exercise.
Sitz baths
A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that you sit in to relieve pain and inflammation in your anal and rectal area. Sitz baths can be especially helpful for hemorrhoids, as they can help to reduce swelling and itching.
To take a sitz bath, fill a bathtub or sitz bath basin with warm water (not hot). You can add Epsom salt or witch hazel to the water to help relieve pain and inflammation. Sit in the bath for 15-20 minutes, or until the water cools. You can take a sitz bath several times a day, as needed.
Sitz baths can also be used to help clean the anal area after a bowel movement. To do this, fill a squirt bottle with warm water and Epsom salt or witch hazel. Squirt the water onto the anal area and gently pat dry.
Sitz baths are a safe and effective way to relieve pain and inflammation from hemorrhoids. They can also help to clean the anal area and prevent infection.
If you have hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about whether sitz baths are right for you.
Cold compresses
Cold compresses can help to reduce swelling and pain from hemorrhoids. To make a cold compress, soak a clean cloth or paper towel in cold water. Wring out the excess water and apply the compress to the affected area for 15-20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this several times a day, as needed.
Cold compresses can also be helpful after a bowel movement. To do this, soak a cotton ball or gauze pad in cold water and apply it to the anal area. Hold the compress in place for a few minutes, or until the pain and swelling subside.
Cold compresses are a safe and effective way to relieve pain and swelling from hemorrhoids. They can also help to reduce itching and inflammation.
If you have hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about whether cold compresses are right for you.
In addition to sitz baths and cold compresses, there are a number of other things you can do to shrink hemorrhoids fast. These include taking over-the-counter pain relievers, using witch hazel wipes, and making lifestyle changes such as eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting regular exercise.
Witch hazel wipes
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce swelling and itching from hemorrhoids. Witch hazel wipes are a convenient way to apply witch hazel to the affected area.
- Relieve pain and itching: Witch hazel contains tannins, which have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Applying witch hazel wipes to the affected area can help to reduce pain and itching.
- Reduce swelling: Witch hazel also helps to reduce swelling by constricting blood vessels. This can help to shrink hemorrhoids and make them less noticeable.
- Cleanse the area: Witch hazel wipes can also be used to cleanse the anal area after a bowel movement. This can help to prevent infection and further irritation.
- Convenient to use: Witch hazel wipes are pre-moistened and disposable, making them easy to use. They are also available in a variety of scents and formulations, so you can find one that is right for you.
Witch hazel wipes are a safe and effective way to relieve pain, itching, and swelling from hemorrhoids. They can also help to cleanse the anal area and prevent infection.
Over-the-counter pain relievers
Over-the-counter pain relievers can help to relieve pain from hemorrhoids. These medications work by blocking pain signals from reaching the brain.
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Acetaminophen is a pain reliever that is safe for most people to take. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form.
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin): Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form.
- Aspirin (Bayer, Ecotrin): Aspirin is another NSAID that can help to reduce pain and inflammation. It is available in tablet, capsule, and liquid form.
- Witch hazel: Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce pain and itching from hemorrhoids. It is available in wipes, pads, and gels.
When choosing an over-the-counter pain reliever for hemorrhoids, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions for use. Some pain relievers may not be appropriate for people with certain medical conditions, such as liver or kidney disease.
Rubber band ligation
Rubber band ligation is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat hemorrhoids. The procedure involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. This cuts off the blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually fall off.
Rubber band ligation is a relatively simple and painless procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office or outpatient clinic. It typically takes about 15-30 minutes to complete. After the procedure, you may experience some mild pain or discomfort, which can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Rubber band ligation is a safe and effective treatment for hemorrhoids. It is typically successful in about 85% of cases. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, and anal fistula.
If you are considering rubber band ligation for hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Rubber band ligation is one of a number of medical treatments that can be used to shrink hemorrhoids fast. Other medical treatments include sclerotherapy and hemorrhoidectomy.
Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy is a minimally invasive procedure that is used to treat hemorrhoids. The procedure involves injecting a solution into the hemorrhoid, which causes it to shrink and eventually disappear.
Sclerotherapy is a relatively simple and painless procedure that can be performed in a doctor's office or outpatient clinic. It typically takes about 15-30 minutes to complete. After the procedure, you may experience some mild pain or discomfort, which can be relieved with over-the-counter pain relievers.
Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective treatment for hemorrhoids. It is typically successful in about 80% of cases. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, and anal fistula.
If you are considering sclerotherapy for hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Sclerotherapy is one of a number of medical treatments that can be used to shrink hemorrhoids fast. Other medical treatments include rubber band ligation and hemorrhoidectomy.
Hemorrhoidectomy
Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure that is used to remove hemorrhoids. The procedure can be performed in a hospital or outpatient clinic. It typically takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.
- Closed hemorrhoidectomy: This is the most common type of hemorrhoidectomy. During a closed hemorrhoidectomy, the surgeon makes a small incision around the hemorrhoid and then removes it. This procedure is typically performed on external hemorrhoids.
- Open hemorrhoidectomy: This procedure is used to remove large or internal hemorrhoids. During an open hemorrhoidectomy, the surgeon makes a larger incision and removes the hemorrhoid. This procedure is typically more painful than a closed hemorrhoidectomy, but it is also more effective.
- Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: This is a newer type of hemorrhoidectomy that uses a stapling device to remove the hemorrhoid. This procedure is less painful than a traditional hemorrhoidectomy and it also has a shorter recovery time.
- Laser hemorrhoidectomy: This procedure uses a laser to remove the hemorrhoid. Laser hemorrhoidectomy is less painful than traditional hemorrhoidectomy and it also has a shorter recovery time.
Hemorrhoidectomy is a safe and effective treatment for hemorrhoids. However, there is a small risk of complications, such as bleeding, infection, and anal fistula. If you are considering hemorrhoidectomy, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of the procedure.
Lifestyle changes
In addition to medical treatments, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help shrink hemorrhoids fast and prevent them from coming back.
- Eat a high-fiber diet: Eating a high-fiber diet can help to soften stools and make them easier to pass. This can help to reduce straining and prevent hemorrhoids from forming. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans.
- Drink plenty of fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids can also help to soften stools and prevent constipation. Aim to drink eight glasses of water per day.
- Get regular exercise: Getting regular exercise can help to improve blood circulation and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
- Avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time: Sitting or standing for long periods of time can put pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, which can lead to hemorrhoids. If you have a job that requires you to sit or stand for long periods of time, take breaks to move around and get your blood flowing.
Making these lifestyle changes can help to shrink hemorrhoids fast and prevent them from coming back. If you have hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about what shrinks hemorrhoids fast:
Question 1: What are hemorrhoids?
Answer: Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. They can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum.
Question 2: What causes hemorrhoids?
Answer: Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. This can be caused by straining during bowel movements, sitting or standing for long periods of time, pregnancy, childbirth, and obesity.
Question 3: What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
Answer: The symptoms of hemorrhoids can include pain, itching, bleeding, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum. You may also see small, red bumps around the anus.
Question 4: How can I shrink hemorrhoids fast?
Answer: There are a number of things you can do to shrink hemorrhoids fast, including taking over-the-counter pain relievers, using witch hazel wipes, and making lifestyle changes such as eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and getting regular exercise.
Question 5: When should I see a doctor about hemorrhoids?
Answer: You should see a doctor about hemorrhoids if you have severe pain, bleeding, or if your hemorrhoids do not improve with home treatment.
Question 6: What are the treatment options for hemorrhoids?
Answer: There are a number of treatment options for hemorrhoids, including home remedies, medical treatments, and surgery. Your doctor will recommend the best treatment option for you based on the severity of your hemorrhoids.
Closing Paragraph for FAQ:
Hemorrhoids are a common problem, but they can be treated. If you have hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms.
In addition to the information provided in the FAQ, here are some additional tips for preventing and treating hemorrhoids:
Tips
Here are some additional tips for preventing and treating hemorrhoids:
Tip 1: Use moist toilet paper or wipes.
Dry toilet paper can irritate hemorrhoids and make them worse. Use moist toilet paper or wipes instead to help soothe and clean the area.
Tip 2: Apply a cold compress.
Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help to reduce pain and swelling. You can use an ice pack or a cold washcloth.
Tip 3: Take a sitz bath.
A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that you sit in to relieve pain and inflammation in your anal and rectal area. You can add Epsom salt or witch hazel to the water to help relieve pain and inflammation.
Tip 4: Wear loose, cotton clothing.
Tight clothing can irritate hemorrhoids and make them worse. Wear loose, cotton clothing to help keep the area clean and dry.
Closing Paragraph for Tips:
By following these tips, you can help to prevent and treat hemorrhoids. If you have hemorrhoids, talk to your doctor about the best way to manage your symptoms.
Hemorrhoids are a common problem, but they can be treated. If you have hemorrhoids, don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor. There are a number of effective treatments available.
Conclusion
Summary of Main Points:
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and rectum. They can cause pain, itching, bleeding, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum. Hemorrhoids are a common problem, affecting up to 50% of adults at some point in their lives.
There are a number of things you can do to shrink hemorrhoids fast, both at home and with medical treatment. Home remedies include applying cold compresses, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, and using witch hazel wipes. Medical treatments include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and hemorrhoidectomy.
In addition to medical treatments, there are a number of lifestyle changes you can make to help shrink hemorrhoids fast and prevent them from coming back. These include eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of fluids, getting regular exercise, and avoiding sitting or standing for long periods of time.
Closing Message:
Hemorrhoids can be a painful and embarrassing problem, but they can be treated. If you have hemorrhoids, don't be embarrassed to talk to your doctor. There are a number of effective treatments available.