A person's hand is holding a tube of hemorrhoid cream in front of a light blue background

How to Get Rid of a Hemorrhoid

Published on June 18, 2025

Written by Kathleen Morrison
Medically Reviewed by Andrea Sleeth WHNP-BC, MSCP

So… That’s not fun.

Hemorrhoids are way more common than most people think, and yeah—they can be super uncomfortable. We’re talking itching, soreness, maybe even a little bleeding. Not cute, but thankfully treatable.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to just grit your teeth and wait it out. There are prescription treatments that can help soothe the irritation and actually speed up healing. Whether it's a cream or a suppository (yep, those are a thing), a targeted prescription can bring serious relief—and fast. These treatments work directly where you need them, so you can stop stressing every time you go to the bathroom.

And look, it’s not just about comfort—it’s about taking care of your body and feeling good in it. You deserve that.

Wisp treatment options are available only after consultation with a licensed medical professional. You should consult with your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement or treatment regimen. Individual results may vary.

Why do I have a hemorrhoid?

Honestly? It happens. Hemorrhoids are basically swollen blood vessels or veins hanging out in places you’d really rather they didn’t—either inside your rectum or around your booty. And while that might sound intense, they’re actually really common and nothing to be embarrassed about.

They usually show up thanks to extra pressure down there—like when you’re straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods of time (thanks, desk jobs), going through pregnancy, or just life with a constipated gut can mess with the blood supply to the veins in your bum, causing them to swell up into what we call hemorrhoids. Your body’s just doing its best, even when the results feel... annoying.

Types of hemorrhoids

There are two main kinds:

  • Internal hemorrhoids: These live inside your rectum, but sometimes they can push through the opening of your bum during a bowel movement. That’s called a prolapsed internal hemorrhoid. It sounds intense, but it’s actually super common and treatable. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless, but they can cause rectal bleeding when you go (eek).
  • External hemorrhoids: These hang out in the area around your anus. External hemorrhoids can be itchy, sore, or swollen. If a blood clot forms (aka a thrombosed hemorrhoid), it might feel like a lump and get extra uncomfortable.

What to watch for

If a hemorrhoid is showing up, you might notice:

  • Mild pain or pressure when you sit down
  • Itching or irritation around your butt
  • Swelling or a lump near your anus
  • Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the bowl after you go

How to treat hemorrhoids (fast, please)

Sure, warm baths and fiber-filled smoothies can sometimes help soothe a hemorrhoid—but let’s be real: when your butt’s on fire, you want something that actually works. Fast.

That’s where prescription treatment comes in. It’s important to go with an option that works for you, whether that’s a targeted cream or suppository for hemorrhoids—you do you.

So how do you know when it’s time to call in some extra support? If you're dealing with hemorrhoid symptoms like:

  • Rectal pain that’s getting in the way of sitting, walking, or living your life
  • Swelling that won’t quit
  • Bleeding that keeps showing up
  • A painful lump that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere
  • Or a fever along with those symptoms

…it’s time to talk to a provider.

Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum, so you might not even know they’re there—until they start causing symptoms like bleeding or a bit of bulging. That’s because internal hemorrhoid tissue is made of swollen veins that live a little deeper up your bum and can get irritated over time.

Certain signs might mean you need to take a deeper look, too. For example, if you’re experiencing heavy bleeding and weight loss with no signs of external hemorrhoids? Definitely time to see your healthcare provider—ASAP, please.

Next step treatment options

If you've got recurring hemorrhoids and prescription hemorrhoid creams or suppositories aren’t enough—or if your provider recommends something more—there are other medical treatments that can help take care of things once and for all. You might need a physical exam to figure things out, but depending on what’s going on, here’s what might come up:

  • Rubber band ligation: A tiny elastic band is placed around the base of an internal hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood flow so it shrinks and falls off (don’t worry, it’s not as dramatic as it sounds).
  • Sclerotherapy: A quick injection that helps shrink the hemorrhoid from the inside.
  • Infrared coagulation: A quick zap of infrared light helps create scar tissue that cuts off circulation and shrinks the hemorrhoid.
  • Hemorrhoid stapling: This option is often used for prolapsed internal hemorrhoids. It works by blocking blood flow to internal hemorrhoid tissue—basically helping the swollen veins shrink down and stop causing trouble. It’s less invasive than full surgery and comes with a shorter recovery time.
  • Hemorrhoidectomy: In more intense cases, surgical removal might be the move. It’s the most thorough option, especially if you have severe pain or if things have been sticking around for a while.

How to support your body when you have hemorrhoids

Let’s be honest—when hemorrhoids are flaring up, you want relief yesterday. While prescription treatment is your best bet for helping discomfort, there are a few simple, supportive things you can do at home to help ease the burn while you wait.

These tricks won’t make hemorrhoids disappear on their own (and they shouldn’t have to carry the whole load), but they can help your body feel a little less cranky in the meantime.

Warm baths or compresses

A cozy sitz bath is like a spa moment for your butt—warm, relaxing, and surprisingly effective at calming that irritated hemorrhoid tissue. Just fill a tub (or a plastic sitz bath if you’ve got one) with warm water, sink in for 10–15 minutes, and let the heat do its thing. Gently pat yourself dry after.

No time for a bath? Try a warm compress. Grab a clean washcloth, soak it in warm (not hot) water, and press it gently against the area for a few minutes. You can repeat this a few times a day when you need relief.

Other comforting aids:

  • Tucks pads (witch hazel = cooling, soothing goodness)
  • Cold compresses for quick relief
  • Fragrance-free, medicated wipes like Preparation H

Food that helps you go

Hemorrhoids and constipation? Not a cute combo. Helping your body stay regular can make a huge difference in how things feel down there.

Here’s what to lean into:

  • Fruits and veggies (berries, apples, spinach, and carrots)
  • Whole grains like oats, brown rice, and whole wheat bread
  • Legumes such as lentils, black beans, or chickpeas

Drink water like it’s your part-time job (aim for 8+ glasses a day). Fiber only works its magic if it’s got water to back it up!

And if your body’s not coping with spicy, fatty, or super-processed foods right now? It’s a good idea to hit pause on those while your treatment works.

Gentle topicals

While you're waiting for your prescription to start working, a few natural topicals can help ease the sting—just don’t expect miracles.

Some options that many folks find helpful:

  • Witch hazel (go for alcohol-free). Try Tucks pads or dab liquid witch hazel on a cotton round.
  • Aloe vera is soothing, cooling, and best used straight from the plant or in pure gel form.
  • Coconut oil is moisturizing and gentle on sore skin.

Quick tip: Always patch test on a small spot of skin before trying anything new, especially on sensitive areas.

Gentle bathroom habits

Listen—no one wants to talk about wiping techniques, but here we are. Being gentle after you go is key.

  • Clean with warm water (a squirt bottle works great), and pat dry.
  • Use unscented, dye-free wipes or toilet paper only.
  • Skip the harsh soaps and anything “cooling” unless it’s designed for that area.

Oh, and when you feel the urge to go? Don’t wait. The longer you hold it, the harder things get—literally. Try not to strain or sit on the toilet too long (we see you, scrolling TikTok on the loo).

Sometimes, internal hemorrhoid tissue doesn’t respond to home remedies, and that’s where medical treatments come in. If you're dealing with bleeding internal hemorrhoids or they keep coming back no matter how many fiber-packed smoothies you drink, it might be time to explore options like rubber band ligation or hemorrhoid stapling. These procedures are fast, effective, and help cut off blood flow to the swollen veins, so they shrink and calm down.

How to show your bum long-term love

Once your hemorrhoids have chilled out (yay), you might be wondering how to keep things feeling good down there.

While there’s no magic trick to guarantee they won’t pop up again, there are a few habits that can give your body some steady support and keep things moving in a happier direction.

Here’s how to set yourself up for success:

  • Load up on high fiber foods like fruits, veggies, and whole grains (you’re looking for about 25-30g of fibre a day)—and drink plenty of water so it can do its thing. Fiber supplements can also help.
  • Don’t delay the bathroom. When your body says go, try to listen.
  • Keep toilet time short and sweet. We love a good scroll, just maybe not while you're perched on the porcelain throne.
  • Move your body regularly. Daily movement = happy digestion = less drama.
  • Be gentle with cleanup. Use soft, fragrance-free wipes or just warm water and a clean cloth. Your booty deserves kindness.
  • Check in with your body. If things start to feel off again, it’s totally okay to revisit your comfort-care routine and reach out for support.

We’ve got your back(side)

Hemorrhoids are super common, totally normal—and yeah, annoying. But they don’t have to take over your day (or your toilet time).

If you're dealing with discomfort, the smartest move is to start with treatments that actually work. Medical care isn’t a last resort—it’s the most effective way to get real relief, fast.

From prescription creams to suppository treatments, there are solid, science-backed options that can ease symptoms and get you back to feeling good in your body. Once you’ve got things under control with treatment, supportive habits like upping your fiber, staying hydrated, and giving your bum a little TLC can help keep things feeling smooth.

Your body deserves care that’s effective, accessible, and judgment-free. That’s where Wisp comes in—you don’t have to suffer in silence or feel embarrassed to ask for help.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):


Do hemorrhoids go away on their own?

Yep—sometimes they do, especially if they’re on the mild side. A few supportive shifts in your routine can help your body do its thing. That said, if they’re sticking around or really cramping your style, it’s totally okay (and smart!) to reach out for medical treatment.

How do I get rid of hemorrhoids asap?

Prescription or medical treatment is your best bet for fast relief. Over-the-counter creams or ointments can also be great help, especially ones with hydrocortisone or witch hazel. Sitz baths can feel great, and staying hydrated and fiber-fueled will help keep things moving (literally).

What is a hemorrhoid caused by?

A bunch of totally normal stuff. Things like straining when you poop, sitting for long periods, pregnancy, or just life with a constipated gut can put extra pressure on the veins in your bum. You’re not doing anything wrong—your body’s just asking for a little extra care.

What shrinks hemorrhoids the fastest?

Prescription and topical treatments can work pretty quickly—look for products with hydrocortisone to help calm swelling and irritation. Cold compresses can also be super soothing, and sitz baths are like spa time for your butt.

This blog post is for informational and educational purposes only and should not be taken as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the information provided here.

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