3 Simple Ways to Ease Your Hemorrhoid Pain

Hemorrhoids are usually the result of increased pressure from straining during bowel movements, being overweight, or pregnancy. The risk of hemorrhoids also increases with age. Around half of the population experiences hemorrhoids by the age of 50. Symptoms include rectal pain, itching, and bleeding. Although hemorrhoids are rarely dangerous, they can cause pain and discomfort. 

Dr. Rodwan Hiba, MD has been serving the digestive care needs of the Brooksville, Florida, community for more than 20 years. Dr. Hiba cares for patients with a full range of gastrointestinal issues, including hemorrhoids, which are very common. 

When you’re dealing with hemorrhoid pain, you can do some things to get relief. If you have recurrent hemorrhoids, or at-home care fails to provide relief, it’s best to seek professional help.

Internal vs. external hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids develop when the cluster of veins right under the mucus membrane that lines the lower rectum and anus becomes swollen and distended. 

Internal hemorrhoids, which occur in the lower rectum, and external hemorrhoids, which develop under the skin around the anus, are the two primary types of hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are the most painful because the skin beneath them becomes irritated. 

When a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid, the pain can be excruciating. In this case you can usually feel a lump around the anus. Typically, the clot dissolves, leaving excess skin that may itch or become irritated.

Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless. The only sign for most patients is bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet. Internal hemorrhoids may also prolapse or extend beyond the anus, which increases the risk of complications. 

Here are some steps you can take to ease the pain from hemorrhoids:

No. 1 – Elevate your feet

When hemorrhoid pain strikes and you need fast relief, try lying down or elevating your feet. Lying down with a pillow beneath your knees, or putting your feet up on a stoo, relieves some of the pressure on the anal canal and reduces the load of your abdominal weight on the pelvic floor. The pressure from prolonged sitting and standing causes hemorrhoids to become more painful.

No. 2 – Take a sitz bath

Sitting in warm water is a common home remedy for hemorrhoid pain. A sitz bath is a round basin that holds a few inches of water. Once you fill it with lukewarm water, you can sit in it for about 15 minutes up to three times a day.

The warm water boosts blood flow, eases inflammation, and soothes irritation. It’s particularly helpful after a bowel movement. A sitz bath for hemorrhoids can usually be found at a local pharmacy. This small bowl fits perfectly over your toilet and provides an easy way to soak and soothe the area. Alternatively, you could also sit in a bathtub filled with warm water.

No. 3 – Bump up fiber intake

Along with remedies for sudden hemorrhoid pain, increasing your fiber intake can help in the long run. Psyllium husk is a supplement that increases fiber intake while softening stools to make them easier to pass. If you’re used to a lower fiber intake, try gradually adding psyllium. Listen to your body, and back off if you experience gas or stomach cramping. This can happen when you increase fiber intake too quickly.

Keeping the stool soft and easy to pass reduces hemorrhoid flare-ups. It’s important to drink plenty of water when taking a fiber supplement. Psyllium absorbs water, which helps add bulk to the stool. 

If you’re struggling with hemorrhoid pain and have tried self-care measures at home, it’s wise to visit Dr. Hiba for an evaluation. Call or message our team to schedule a visit. We offer in-person and telehealth visits at our Brooksville, Florida, office. Contact us to schedule a colonoscopy or consultation with Dr. Hiba.