Never put ice or an ice pack directly on your skin. The skin around your anus is particularly delicate and the ice can damage it. Follow up with a warm washcloth to calm your skin, if you like.
The water should be warm, not hot. Check the temperature to ensure the water is between 99 and 102 °F (37 and 39 °C). [4] X Research source If your hemorrhoids itch, add 1 tbsp (15 g) of baking soda to the water. [5] X Research source You can buy a sitz bath online or at a pharmacy or medical supply store.
These remedies are safe to use as often as you need them.
Try a fiber supplement, like Metamucil, if you’re having trouble eating enough fiber-rich foods. You can buy fiber supplements online or at your local drugstore or supermarket. [8] X Research source
Washing the area with mild soap and warm water after every bowel movement works, too.
Eating plenty of foods that are high in fiber, including whole grains and raw fruits and vegetables, will also help you avoid constipation. Avoid chocolate, dairy, bananas, and red meat, which can dehydrate you and make constipation worse. [12] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
To reduce strain, try propping your feet on a low stool when you’re on the toilet. This lifts your knees above your hips, putting you in a more natural position so you don’t have to strain as much. [14] X Expert Source Wendy PowellMaternal Health & Exercise Specialist Expert Interview. 24 September 2020.
The toilet might very well be the only place you have to get a little quiet time to yourself, but avoid watching videos or reading while sitting on the toilet, as these activities can cause you to sit too long. While watching TV, reading, or sleeping, lie on your left side to increase blood flow to the lower half of your body. [16] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Kegel exercises can also reduce the severity of bleeding and prolapse if you currently have hemorrhoids. [18] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
There are many over-the-counter creams and other treatments for hemorrhoids. However, while they may help ease the associated pain and itching, they don’t do anything to treat the underlying problem. Your doctor might also recommend a rectal suppository. These usually require a prescription and help relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids. [21] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source
Fiber supplements are typically available over-the-counter at pharmacies, grocery, and discount stores (or online). Stool softeners, on the other hand, might require a prescription. Don’t take laxatives unless your doctor specifically tells you to. They can be dangerous if you’re pregnant. [23] X Research source
Doctors typically don’t consider other more aggressive treatments, including sclerotherapy and cryotherapy, which are less invasive than surgery, unless you’ve had severe symptoms for over a month. [25] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Your doctor won’t normally consider surgery until after delivery. [26] X Trustworthy Source Mayo Clinic Educational website from one of the world’s leading hospitals Go to source Until then, do everything you can to help relieve your pain and discomfort.
