Hemorrhoids can be one of those uncomfortable, painful issues that many people quietly suffer from. If you’re reading this, you might look for practical, easy ways to relieve your symptoms or avoid getting haemorrhoids again. The good news? Plenty of natural home remedies and smart lifestyle changes can make a big difference — without rushing to expensive treatments or surgeries.

In this article, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about haemorrhoids — what causes them, how to spot the symptoms early, effective home treatments, and lifestyle habits that can prevent them from coming back. Let’s dive in!

What Are Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Basics

Before we jump into solutions, we must understand what haemorrhoids are.

Haemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins located in the lower part of your rectum and anus. Think of them as varicose veins but in that sensitive area. When these veins get irritated or stretched, they can cause unpleasant symptoms, such as itching, pain, swelling, and sometimes bleeding.

Common Causes of Hemorrhoids: Why Do They Develop?

Several factors can increase pressure in your abdomen and pelvic area, leading to haemorrhoids. Here are the most common culprits:

• Straining during bowel movements: Often caused by constipation or hard stools.
• Sitting for long periods: Especially on the toilet or at a desk without breaks.
• Low-fiber diet: Fiber helps soften stools, making them easier to pass.
• Pregnancy: Increased pressure on pelvic veins during pregnancy contributes to haemorrhoid development.
• Heavy lifting or intense physical exertion: These activities can strain veins in the lower body.
• Chronic coughing or sneezing: This repeatedly raises abdominal pressure.
• Obesity: Extra weight adds pressure to pelvic veins.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

If you notice any of these, it might be haemorrhoids:

• Pain or discomfort around the anus, especially during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation in the anal region
• Visible lumps or swelling near the anus
• Bright red bleeding during or after a bowel movement
• Mucus discharge or feeling like your bowel isn’t empty

How to Relieve Hemorrhoid Symptoms at Home: Tried-and-Tested Remedies

Fortunately, many people find significant relief using natural remedies. Here’s what you can do today to soothe irritation and reduce pain:

1. Warm Sitz Baths — The Ultimate Soothing Trick

Sitting in warm water for 15-20 minutes several times daily can work wonders. It relaxes the muscles, reduces swelling, and eases pain.

Tips for a perfect sitz bath:

• Use warm (not hot) water.
• Sit in the bath or use a sitz bath kit over your toilet.
• Do this, especially after bowel movements.

2. Gentle Cleaning Techniques

Harsh toilet paper can worsen irritation. Instead, use:

• Unscented baby wipes or moist wipes
• A soft cloth dampened with water
• Natural astringents like witch hazel are applied gently with a cotton ball

These methods clean the area without causing more pain or itching.

3. Use Over-the-Counter Creams or Suppositories

Hydrocortisone creams, lidocaine gels, or witch hazel-based products can calm inflammation and numb pain. Remember to follow directions carefully and don’t overuse steroid creams.

4. Ease Bowel Movements with Stool Softeners

Hard stools and straining make haemorrhoids worse. To prevent this:

• Increase fibre intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
• Stay hydrated
• Consider mild stool softeners if recommended by your doctor
• Avoid laxatives as they may cause diarrhoea and worsen symptoms

Lifestyle Habits to Prevent Hemorrhoids From Coming Back

Once you feel better, the goal is to keep haemorrhoids away. These lifestyle tweaks can help:

Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet Every Day

Fibre helps bulk and soften stool, so you don’t have to strain. Include:

• Fresh fruits like apples, berries, oranges
• Vegetables like broccoli, carrots, spinach
• Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, quinoa
• Legumes like lentils, beans, chickpeas

Stay Hydrated Throughout the Day

Aim to drink at least eight glasses (about 2 litres) of water daily. Proper hydration keeps stools soft and easier to pass.

Move Your Body Regularly

Physical activity improves digestion and bowel regularity. It also reduces pressure on pelvic veins. Try:

• Walking 30 minutes a day
• Light stretching or yoga
• Avoid sitting for hours without a break

Avoid Prolonged Sitting and Take Breaks

If you have a desk job or tend to sit a lot:

• Stand up every hour and walk around
• Use a cushion designed to relieve pressure on your lower body
• Avoid sitting on cold or hard surfaces for long periods

Consider Adding Probiotics

Probiotics promote healthy gut bacteria, which may help digestion and bowel movements. You can get probiotics from:

• Yogurt with live cultures
• Fermented foods like kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir
• Supplements (consult your doctor first)

When Should You See a Doctor?

Most mild to moderate haemorrhoids respond well to home treatments, but you should consult a healthcare professional if:

Warning Signs	Reason to See a Doctor
Heavy or persistent bleeding	Could indicate other conditions like fissures or cancer
Severe pain or swelling	May require medical intervention
Large lumps or prolapsed hemorrhoids	Possible need for procedures or surgery
No improvement after 1 week	Persistent symptoms need evaluation
Sudden change in bowel habits or weight loss	Needs prompt assessment

Your doctor might suggest treatments like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or, in rare cases, surgical removal.

Foods to Avoid if You Have Hemorrhoids

Certain foods can worsen symptoms by irritating your digestive system or causing constipation:

• Spicy foods
• Excessive caffeine (coffee, tea, energy drinks)
• Alcohol
• Processed and junk foods low in fibre
• Heavy dairy products in some people

Simple Daily Tips to Keep Hemorrhoids at Bay

• Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the need—don’t hold it in.
• Try not to strain or stay seated on the toilet for extended periods.
• Keeping your weight in a healthy range can help ease pressure on your veins.
• Wear breathable cotton underwear to prevent moisture buildup

Natural Remedies in Detail: What Works and How?

Witch Hazel: Nature’s Soothing Agent

Witch hazel is a plant extract that acts as an astringent. It helps shrink swollen veins and calms itching. To use:

• Dab a cotton ball with witch hazel and gently apply it to the affected area.
• Use 2-3 times a day as needed.

Aloe Vera Gel

Known for its healing properties, aloe vera can soothe burning and inflammation. Apply pure aloe vera gel directly.

Coconut Oil

It acts as a natural moisturizer and anti-inflammatory. Gently applying a small amount can relieve discomfort.

Exercises That Help Prevent Hemorrhoids

Kegel exercises strengthen pelvic muscles and improve blood flow. Here’s how to do them:

1. Tighten your pelvic floor muscles (as if stopping urine flow).
2. Contract the muscles for five seconds, then gently release them for five seconds.
3. Repeat 10 times, 3 times a day.

My Personal Experience With Hemorrhoids (Example)

I remember struggling with haemorrhoids during a stressful work period. Sitting long hours and skipping meals didn’t help. What worked for me was:

• Drinking more water
• Adding fibre-rich fruits daily
• Taking short breaks every hour to stretch
• Using witch hazel pads for relief

Within a week, the discomfort reduced dramatically, and I’ve kept it at bay ever since by sticking to these habits.

Summary Table: Quick Guide to Managing Hemorrhoids

Step	What to Do	Why It Helps
Diet	Eat high-fiber foods and drink plenty of water	Softens stool, reduces straining
Hygiene	Use gentle wipes, apply witch hazel or aloe vera	Prevents irritation and itching
Sitz Bath	Soak in warm water 15-20 minutes multiple times daily	Relaxes muscles, reduces swelling
Activity	Walk regularly, avoid prolonged sitting	Improves digestion and blood flow
Avoid Straining	Use stool softeners if needed, don’t delay bathroom visits	Prevents worsening hemorrhoids
Medical Help	See doctor if bleeding or severe pain persists	Ensures proper treatment

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts: Taking Control of Your Health

Haemorrhoids can be frustrating and embarrassing, but they are familiar and manageable. With simple changes in diet, hygiene, and daily habits, you can reduce discomfort and prevent flare-ups. Remember, don’t hesitate to get professional advice if symptoms persist or worsen.