10 Natural Remedies to Stop Hemorrhoid Bleeding

Nicholas Foster

Hemorrhoids can be quite uncomfortable and embarrassing to discuss, but they’re a common problem many people face. Luckily, there are natural remedies that can help alleviate the symptoms and reduce bleeding. Here, we’ll explore ten such remedies that can be used to manage hemorrhoid symptoms effectively. Remember, these are general recommendations and it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.

Discover ten natural remedies to stop hemorrhoid bleeding, from soothing aloe vera to dietary changes. Learn when to seek professional help and explore the next steps if natural remedies aren’t enough.

1. Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is widely known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This makes it an excellent remedy for hemorrhoids.

Apply pure aloe vera gel directly to your hemorrhoids for instant relief.

2. Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce inflammation and bleeding caused by hemorrhoids.

Soak a cotton ball in witch hazel and apply it directly to the affected area.

“Witch Hazel can significantly reduce discomfort, itching, and bleeding associated with hemorrhoids.” – Healthline

3. Warm Bath with Epsom Salt

A warm bath with Epsom salt can help soothe the itchiness and discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.

Add a cup of Epsom salts to a warm bath and soak for at least 20 minutes.

4. Dietary Changes

A diet high in fiber can help reduce the strain caused by constipation, a common cause of hemorrhoids.

Eat foods rich in fiber, like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

5. Over-the-Counter Creams

While not a natural remedy, over-the-counter creams can help provide relief.

Creams with hydrocortisone can reduce inflammation and symptoms.

6. Cold Compress

Applying a cold compress to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.

Apply a cold compress for 15 minutes at a time to the affected area.

7. Stool Softeners

Stool softeners can make bowel movements easier, reducing the strain and further damage to the hemorrhoids.

Use over-the-counter stool softeners to assist with bowel movements.

8. Exercise

Regular physical activity can help reduce the pressure on veins, which is often what causes hemorrhoids.

Engage in regular physical activity such as walking or cycling.

9. Hydration

Staying well-hydrated is crucial in preventing constipation and maintaining soft stools.

Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.

10. Herbal Supplements

Certain herbal supplements are known to reduce inflammation and have soothing properties.

Supplements like horse chestnut and butcher’s broom have been used to treat hemorrhoids.

While these remedies can provide relief, it’s essential to remember that they aren’t cures. If your hemorrhoid symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek medical attention. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new treatment regimen to ensure it’s safe and suitable for your needs.

“Remember: If your hemorrhoid symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to seek medical attention.“

Treating Hemorrhoids: Next Steps

While natural remedies can often provide relief for hemorrhoid symptoms, it’s essential to remember that these treatments may not be effective for everyone or for more severe cases. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand when professional help is required.

When to Seek Medical Attention

Despite using the remedies listed above, if you experience the following symptoms, it’s important to seek immediate medical attention:

Persistent or severe pain
Heavy or continuous bleeding
Hemorrhoids that don’t improve after a week of home treatment
Blood in your stool or toilet paper appearing bright red

“Do not ignore these signs. Hemorrhoid bleeding could also be a symptom of a more serious condition.“

Professional Treatment Options

If your hemorrhoids are persistently causing discomfort or bleeding, professional treatment options are available. These include:

Topical Treatments for Hemorrhoids

Topical treatments can provide immediate relief for hemorrhoid symptoms such as pain, swelling, and itching. These treatments are typically available over-the-counter, but stronger versions may be available via prescription from a healthcare provider. Below are some common topical treatments for hemorrhoids.

1. Hemorrhoid Creams

These creams often contain hydrocortisone, a steroid that helps reduce inflammation and itching. They can be applied directly to the affected area for immediate relief.

2. Ointments

Ointments for hemorrhoids usually contain a protective barrier that can soothe the inflamed area and protect it from further irritation. Some ointments may also contain ingredients that help to shrink the hemorrhoid.

3. Suppositories

Suppositories are inserted directly into the rectum. They usually contain ingredients such as hydrocortisone or a local anesthetic to relieve pain and inflammation.

4. Wipes and Pads

Hemorrhoid wipes and pads often contain witch hazel or aloe, which can soothe the inflamed area. They’re typically used after a bowel movement to clean the area and provide some relief.

“Topical treatments can provide immediate relief for hemorrhoid symptoms such as pain, swelling, and itching.“

5. Prescription Medications

If over-the-counter treatments aren’t providing enough relief, your healthcare provider may prescribe a stronger medication. These can include higher-strength creams, ointments, or suppositories.

Remember, while these topical treatments can provide relief, they don’t cure hemorrhoids. They can help manage symptoms, but they’re not a long-term solution. If your hemorrhoids persist or get worse despite using topical treatments, it’s important to seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can recommend more comprehensive treatments such as minimally invasive procedures or surgery.

Minimally invasive procedures

Minimally invasive procedures for hemorrhoids are non-surgical treatments that can be performed in a doctor’s office or a hospital under local anesthesia. These procedures are typically used when hemorrhoids are too large or persistent for home remedies or over-the-counter treatments. Here are some common minimally invasive procedures for hemorrhoids:

1. Rubber Band Ligation

This is one of the most common procedures used for treating hemorrhoids. A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. Without blood, the hemorrhoid will wither away, shrink, and eventually fall off within a week.

2. Sclerotherapy

In this procedure, a chemical solution is injected directly into the hemorrhoidal tissue. This causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and eventually dissolve. The injection might cause some discomfort and irritation.

3. Infrared, Laser, or Bipolar Coagulation

These procedures use laser or infrared light or heat treatments to cause small, bleeding, internal hemorrhoids to harden and shrivel. While coagulation has few side effects and typically causes little discomfort, it’s not as effective as rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy over the long term.

4. Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation

This procedure uses a device to locate the arterial blood flow to the hemorrhoid. Once found, the artery is stitched to cut off the blood supply. This procedure is more successful and has fewer complications compared to rubber band ligation.

Remember, while these procedures are less invasive than surgery, they still carry risks such as bleeding, infection, or a reaction to the anesthesia. Hence, it’s important to discuss these treatment options and their potential side effects with your doctor.

Hemorrhoid Surgery: A Detailed Look

When it comes to treating severe or persistently symptomatic hemorrhoids, professional medical interventions, including surgery, may be necessary. Surgical treatment options are typically considered when other treatments have not been effective or if the hemorrhoids are particularly large or severe.

Hemorrhoidectomy

Hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure used to remove excessive tissue causing the bleeding and protrusion. It’s the most effective method for the complete removal of hemorrhoids, but it also has the highest rate of complications.

During a hemorrhoidectomy, the patient is typically under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia. The surgeon makes small incisions around the hemorrhoid and removes the swollen blood vessels. After the procedure, the patient might experience pain and discomfort for a few days, but pain medication can be provided to manage this.

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, or stapled hemorrhoidectomy, is a less painful alternative to a conventional hemorrhoidectomy. This procedure involves using a special stapling device that lifts the hemorrhoid back into its normal position within the rectum. It also reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and eventually die off.

The procedure is less painful and involves less bleeding than a traditional hemorrhoidectomy. However, there’s a greater chance of recurrence and rectal prolapse, where part of the rectum protrudes from the anus.

Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation

Hemorrhoidal artery ligation is a procedure where a small ultrasound probe is inserted into the anus to locate the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. Once these arteries are located, they’re stitched closed to cut off the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoids to shrink.

Post-operative pain is minimal, and patients can usually return to their normal activities within a day.

While surgery can provide a more permanent solution to hemorrhoids, it also comes with risks and potential complications. Therefore, surgical options should be considered carefully and discussed in depth with a healthcare professional.

“Hemorrhoid surgery can provide a more permanent solution to hemorrhoids, but it also comes with risks and potential complications. Discuss in depth with a healthcare professional before deciding.” –

In general, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with a balanced diet and regular exercise can reduce the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids or reduce their severity.

Always remember, health is a personal journey, and while natural remedies can be very effective, they are not suitable for every individual or every situation. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure the best treatment plan for your individual needs.

Stay healthy and remember to take care of your body. With the right treatment and lifestyle modifications, you can alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids and improve your quality of life.