You’re going about your day and suddenly feel an uncomfortable itch or a lump near your backdoor — a hemorrhoid — and your top priority is getting rid of it. We’re here to answer your burning question: “Will my hemorrhoid go away on its own?”
Hemorrhoids are just swollen veins in your lower rectum and anus, kind of like varicose veins. They can pop up when there’s too much pressure down there, causing them to swell and inflame.
These pesky clusters of bulging veins, sometimes called piles, can ruin your day and last for weeks or months. They bug you with itching, discomfort, bleeding during bathroom breaks, or a noticeable lump near your anus.
While these symptoms can be a pain in the behind (literally), they’re usually not a sign of anything serious. However, if things get really uncomfortable or persist for more than a week, it’s time to call in the pros.
Our expert team at Newtown Gastroenterology helps people battle hemorrhoids from our offices in Elmhurst in Queens, Sunset Park in Brooklyn, and Chinatown in Manhattan, New York.
Here’s the lowdown on hemorrhoids.
There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
Internal hemorrhoids hang out inside the rectum, and you can’t usually see or feel them.
External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are under the skin around your anus, and you can definitely see and feel them.
Sometimes, hemorrhoids gradually subside and disappear on their own, especially if temporary things like constipation or pregnancy cause them. But if they keep coming back, or if they’re causing a lot of pain or heavy bleeding, you’ll need some medical backup.
If your hemorrhoid is mild, there are plenty of ways to give it the boot right at home. Here are some top tips from our team.
Applying topical treatments such as lidocaine, hydrocortisone, or witch hazel can immediately relieve the irritated area. These products reduce inflammation and discomfort, making daily activities more bearable.
Laxatives can be a valuable tool in your fight against hemorrhoids. By softening your stools, they can help prevent straining during bowel movements, one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids. Remember to use them responsibly and under the guidance of a health care professional.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be highly effective for pain relief. They reduce the body’s production of substances that cause inflammation and pain. Always follow the recommended dosage to ensure safe and effective use.
Staying well-hydrated is crucial in preventing constipation, a common trigger for hemorrhoids. Drinking ample water helps soften your stools, making them easier to pass and reducing the pressure on your rectal veins.
Aiming for a daily fiber intake of 20-35 grams can significantly improve your digestive health. Fiber adds bulk to your stool, helping it move smoothly through your digestive tract. You can get more fiber by changing your diet or adding fiber supplements.
A warm sitz bath for 10-20 minutes daily can significantly relieve hemorrhoid discomfort. The warmth helps soothe the irritated tissue and promote healing. It’s a simple yet effective method of self-care during hemorrhoid flare-ups.
After a bowel movement, cleaning gently with wet wipes or lotion-infused tissue can help prevent further irritation to your hemorrhoids. It also promotes cleanliness and comfort.
If your hemorrhoid is stubborn and won’t go away or is causing severe symptoms, it’s time to seek medical help — and you’ve come to the right place.
Our board-certified gastroenterologists specialize in diagnosing and treating complicated hemorrhoids with advanced technology and techniques.
Depending on the type and severity of your hemorrhoids, we may recommend rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, hemorrhoidectomy, or hemorrhoid stapling.
Whichever treatment suits you best, you can rest assured that your hemorrhoids —and their annoying symptoms — will be behind you.
Book an appointment online or call Newtown Gastroenterology to find out if your hemorrhoids need professional help.
