A hemorrhoid is a swollen vein in the rectum or anus. Its duration varies, and understanding how long it might persist is a common concern.
Typical Duration and Influencing Factors
Most uncomplicated hemorrhoids improve within a few days to a week with self-care. The type of hemorrhoid influences this timeline. Internal hemorrhoids, inside the rectum, may cause painless bleeding and often resolve unless they prolapse.
External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and are prone to pain and swelling. If an external hemorrhoid develops a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid), it causes sudden, intense pain and swelling lasting several days or weeks, though the clot often shrinks. Size and inflammation also play a role; smaller, less inflamed hemorrhoids heal faster than larger, more swollen ones.
Lifestyle factors impact how long a hemorrhoid lasts. Chronic constipation or excessive straining increases pressure on rectal veins, prolonging healing and potentially worsening the condition. A diet low in fiber, insufficient fluid intake, and prolonged sitting, particularly on the toilet, contribute to hemorrhoid persistence by promoting poor bowel habits and increased venous pressure.
Self-Care for Faster Resolution
Dietary adjustments promote faster resolution and prevent recurrence. Increasing high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps soften stools, reducing straining. Consuming adequate fluids, eight glasses of water daily, aids in maintaining soft, easily passable stools.
Maintaining proper anal hygiene is beneficial. Gently cleaning the area with soft, moist toilet paper or a bidet after bowel movements prevents irritation. Avoiding harsh wiping or scented products protects sensitive skin and promotes healing.
Warm sitz baths offer relief from discomfort and encourage healing. Soaking the anal area in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times a day, reduces swelling and soothes irritated tissues. Over-the-counter treatments provide symptomatic relief; creams and ointments with hydrocortisone reduce inflammation and itching, while those with witch hazel offer astringent properties. Oral pain relievers, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), manage associated pain.
When to Seek Professional Help
Consult a healthcare professional if hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve within a week of consistent self-care. Persistent or severe pain interfering with daily activities requires medical evaluation. Any significant bleeding, especially if continuous or accompanied by dark, tarry stools, requires immediate medical attention to rule out serious conditions. A hemorrhoid that prolapses and cannot be gently pushed back into the rectum, or one that becomes thrombosed and causes intense, sudden pain, also indicates a need for professional assessment. If there is uncertainty regarding the diagnosis, or if new or unusual symptoms develop, consulting a doctor provides clarity and guidance.