If you’ve ever experienced the discomfort, itching or pain of hemorrhoids, you’re not alone. Hemorrhoids are super common; millions of adults in the US experience them every year. Whether internal or external, mild or severe, one thing’s for sure – when a flare-up happens, you want fast relief.
At the Hemorrhoid Institute we specialize in long-term solutions but we also understand the importance of managing symptoms in the short term. Below are five quick fix ways to shrink hemorrhoids and ease discomfort – especially when you need a solution now.
1. Sitz Baths
A sitz bath is a shallow, warm water bath for the perianal area. It’s one of the easiest and most accessible ways to reduce inflammation and shrink hemorrhoids naturally.
How it helps:
- Warm water improves blood flow, which reduces swelling.
- It can soothe itching, irritation, and pain.
- Keeps the area clean, which prevents further irritation.
How to use it:
Fill a bathtub or sitz bath basin with 2-3 inches of warm water. Sit in it for 10-15 minutes, two to three times a day, especially after bowel movements. Don’t use soaps or bubble baths as these can irritate the area further.
Bonus tip: Add Epsom salts or witch hazel to enhance the anti-inflammatory effects.
2. Topical Hemorrhoid Creams and Ointments
Over-the-counter creams and ointments offer fast relief. They don’t cure hemorrhoids but can help temporarily shrink them by reducing inflammation.
Key ingredients to look for:
- Hydrocortisone: Reduces inflammation and itching.
- Witch hazel: A natural astringent that can shrink tissues.
- Lidocaine: Numbs the pain and discomfort.
Important note: Use these products for no more than one week unless otherwise directed by a doctor, as prolonged use of steroid creams can thin the skin.
3. Cold Compresses or Ice Packs
Cold therapy is an old remedy for inflammation, and it works wonders on swollen hemorrhoids.
How it helps:
- Shrinks blood vessels temporarily.
- Reduces swelling and pain.
- Numbs the pain.
How to use:
Wrap a few ice cubes in a clean cloth (never apply ice directly to the skin) and hold it against the affected area for 15-20 minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.
4. Witch Hazel Pads or Compresses
Witch hazel is one of the best natural remedies for hemorrhoids due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
Benefits of witch hazel:
- Soothes itching and burning.
- Shrink swollen tissues.
- Naturally cleans the area which reduces irritation.
You can use witch hazel with pre-moistened pads (often marketed as hemorrhoid pads) or by soaking a clean cotton pad with pure witch hazel extract and gently dabbing the area.
Pro tip: Store witch hazel pads in the refrigerator for added cooling relief.
5. Dietary Fiber and Hydration Boost
While it may not offer instant results, increasing your fiber and fluid intake can bring fast results within 24-48 hours by softening your stool and making bowel movements easier, reducing the strain that worsens hemorrhoids.
Try:
- Eat high-fiber foods like oatmeal, leafy greens, berries, lentils, and whole grains.
- Consider a fiber supplement like psyllium husk (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel).
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated and keep things moving.
Constipation is one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids. Managing your diet is key to both shrinking existing hemorrhoids and preventing future ones.
When Quick Relief Isn’t Enough: Know Your Treatment Options
While these five quick relief methods are great for managing symptoms and shrinking small hemorrhoids, chronic or severe cases may require more advanced care. That’s where we come in.
At the Hemorrhoid Institute, we offer a minimally invasive, safe, and effective procedure for long-term relief. Here’s a quick rundown of our most popular treatment:
Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
- Best for: Internal hemorrhoids
- Benefits: Quick, non-surgical and virtually painless
- Downtime: None
- Effectiveness: High for internal hemorrhoids
Your Next Steps
If you’re having a flare-up, these five quick relief methods can help. But if you’re having frequent episodes, pain, or worsening symptoms, it’s time to get evaluated.
At the Hemorrhoid Institute of Connecticut, we care and we have the treatment for you. Relief is available – and you don’t have to wait. Reach out today to schedule an appointment.
