What Shrinks Hemorrhoids Fastest? Home Remedies & Medications
The fastest way to shrink hemorrhoids is to reduce swelling and irritation with cold compresses, warm sitz baths, witch hazel, and aloe vera. Over-the-counter creams and suppositories also bring quick relief, while fiber and hydration support healing. Severe cases may need prescription treatment.
If you’re struggling with hemorrhoids, you’re probably wondering what shrinks them the fastest. The answer is a mix of simple home remedies and effective medications that ease swelling, calm irritation, and help tissue heal.
Hemorrhoids are uncomfortable, but you are not alone. Millions of people experience them at some point in their lives. The good news is, you don’t have to suffer in silence. Relief is possible, and in many cases, symptoms improve within a few days when you know what to do.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the rectum or around the anus. They can cause pain, itching, burning, and even bleeding during bowel movements. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum, while external hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus.1
Although they can feel alarming, hemorrhoids are rarely dangerous. They often improve with simple treatments at home, though sometimes medical care is needed if symptoms don’t go away.
The Fastest Ways to Shrink Hemorrhoids
If you want quick relief, focus on reducing inflammation, easing irritation, and improving blood flow in the affected area. A combination of remedies usually works best.
Cold Compress or Ice Packs
Cold helps shrink swollen veins quickly. Applying an ice pack wrapped in a clean cloth for 10 to 15 minutes reduces swelling and numbs pain. Repeat this several times a day, especially after bowel movements.
Warm Sitz Baths
A sitz bath involves sitting in warm water for about 15–20 minutes. Doing this two or three times a day relaxes the anal muscles, soothes itching, and improves circulation, which helps hemorrhoids shrink naturally.2
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that tightens tissue and reduces swelling. Applying witch hazel pads or liquid directly to hemorrhoids can bring fast relief. It also calms itching and irritation.3
Aloe Vera Gel
Pure aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory properties. Applying a thin layer to the hemorrhoid can soothe burning and discomfort while helping the area heal.
Fiber and Hydration
Constipation and straining make hemorrhoids worse. Drinking enough water and eating a fiber-rich diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans) softens stool and makes bowel movements easier. This prevents further irritation and allows hemorrhoids to shrink faster.
Medications That Help Shrink Hemorrhoids
Over-the-Counter Creams and Ointments
Creams with hydrocortisone or witch hazel (such as Preparation H) reduce swelling and itching. They can bring noticeable relief within hours.
Suppositories
For internal hemorrhoids, suppositories deliver medication directly inside the rectum. This helps shrink swollen tissue from the inside out while easing pain and irritation.
Pain Relievers
Non-prescription medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce discomfort while your body heals. They don’t shrink hemorrhoids directly, but they make recovery easier.
Prescription Treatments
If over-the-counter options aren’t enough, a doctor may prescribe stronger topical creams or recommend minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy to shrink hemorrhoids quickly.
Lifestyle Habits That Support Healing
Even the best remedies won’t last if the underlying causes of hemorrhoids aren’t addressed. Simple lifestyle adjustments can prevent flare-ups and help healing happen faster.
- Don’t strain on the toilet. Straining puts pressure on rectal veins, making hemorrhoids swell more.
- Go when you feel the urge. Holding in stool leads to harder bowel movements and worsens irritation.
- Stay active. Walking, light exercise, and stretching improve blood flow and reduce pressure in the lower body.
- Use moist wipes. Gentle, unscented wipes are less irritating than dry toilet paper.
- Limit long sitting. Sitting for extended periods increases pressure in the rectal area.
When to See a Doctor
Most hemorrhoids improve with home remedies, but you should seek medical attention if:
- You have heavy rectal bleeding.
- Symptoms last longer than a week.
- Pain is severe or worsening.
- You notice a hard lump that does not improve.
In these cases, your doctor may suggest stronger medications or quick, minimally invasive procedures to shrink hemorrhoids effectively.
Final Thoughts
The fastest way to shrink hemorrhoids often involves combining cold compresses, sitz baths, soothing remedies like witch hazel, and over-the-counter creams. With consistent care, most hemorrhoids begin improving within a few days. If symptoms do not get better, professional medical treatment can provide fast and lasting relief.
FAQs
1. How long does it take for hemorrhoids to shrink?
Mild hemorrhoids may shrink within a few days with proper care. More severe ones may take longer or require medical treatment.
2. Can hemorrhoids go away on their own?
Yes, small hemorrhoids often heal without treatment, especially with healthy lifestyle changes.
3. What foods should I avoid with hemorrhoids?
Spicy foods, processed snacks, and low-fiber diets can worsen irritation and constipation, making hemorrhoids more painful.
4. Is walking good for hemorrhoids?
Yes, walking improves blood flow and prevents constipation, which reduces pressure on hemorrhoids.
5. What is the best sleeping position for hemorrhoids?
Sleeping on your side with a pillow between your legs can reduce strain and make you more comfortable at night.
