Treatment
An over-the-counter or prescribed hemorrhoid cream or suppository is the usual first line treatment for hemorrhoids. The medication slowly reduces the swelling. In more severe situations, a doctor may have to place bands at the base of the protruding veins to reduce their size gradually. Hemorrhoid banding requires no special prior preparation and can be performed as a quick outpatient procedure in your gastroenterologist’s office with remarkable results avoiding the need for surgery. A hemorrhoidectomy is a traditional surgery, where the tissue is removed while a hemorrhoidopexy staples the tissue in a particular position so that hemorrhoids no longer form around the anus.
You may be able to manage most hemorrhoid pain without going to the doctor with natural solutions. Try sitting in a bath of warm water (also called a sitz bath) for about a half an hour. Do not sit on hard surfaces or even on chairs that are firm — sit on a pillow or a doughnut. If possible, do not sit at all — lay down on your side instead while dealing with a hemorrhoid. Avoid excessive time on the toilet, straining when going to the bathroom, and to prevent problems with constipation eat foods high in fiber, use a daily fiber supplement like Metamucil or Benefiber and exercise more.