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The Best Way to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids

A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein located in the anus or rectum, much like a varicose vein. It is possible to have hemorrhoids without any symptoms, but most people experience irritation--resulting in itching, burning, swelling, and pain. It's essential for comfort to deal with hemorrhoids when you notice symptoms.

  1. Types

    • Hemorrhoids may occur externally or internally. Internal hemorrhoids are less likely to cause symptoms than external hemorrhoids, but either can become uncomfortable. If the blood supply to the hemorrhoid gets clogged, the result is a thrombosed vein. This can become extremely painful and needs a doctor's care.

    Treating the Symptoms

    • Often, the hemorrhoid itself doesn't need treatment and will go away on its own. However, you'll want to relieve your symptoms as soon as possible. You can treat the itching, burning and swelling with over-the-counter medications specially designed for hemorrhoids and/or an anti-inflammatory.

    Treating the Vein

    • The best way to treat the hemorrhoid itself depends on how severe your symptoms are. For very mild cases, hemorrhoid creams may reduce irritation adequately. You may also try a Sitz Bath, which is a small seat you place in your bathtub that allows you to soak the hemorrhoid while taking a bath. Sitz Baths are available at most pharmacies.

      You will need to see a doctor if the hemorrhoid is very painful or bothersome, is bleeding, or if you think it may be thrombosed. The doctor may get rid of the hemorrhoid through rubber band ligation, which involves wrapping a rubber band around the vein until it falls off; infrared coagulation, which involves burning the hemorrhoid with infrared light until the tissue comes off; and as a last resort, a hemorrhoidectomy, which means surgically removing the hemorrhoid.

    Prevention

    • Hemorrhoids may go away, but there is always the risk that they will come back again. It is wise to do everything you can to avoid new hemorrhoids. The best way to do this is to get plenty of fiber. You should also avoid sitting or standing for long periods of time, anal intercourse, and heavy lifting.

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