What Should You Do If You Have Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, frustrating, and sometimes even painful, but the good news is that there are several simple things you can do to ease the symptoms and prevent them from getting worse. Many people feel embarrassed talking about hemorrhoids, yet they are extremely common and often linked to everyday habits like diet, constipation, or spending too much time sitting on the toilet. Here's a simple and practical guide to understanding what to do if you're dealing with hemorrhoids.

What Should You Do If You Have Hemorrhoids?

People who frequently suffer from hemorrhoid flare-ups often try to hold back the urge to have a bowel movement because they fear the pain. 

Unfortunately, this usually leads to constipation, which makes hemorrhoids even worse and creates a vicious cycle. That's why it's important to keep bowel movements regular and soft.

Try to avoid spending long periods of time on the toilet, especially straining or pushing too hard. It's better to come back later than to force it.

When using toilet paper, choose plain, unscented paper without dyes or perfumes, since these ingredients may irritate sensitive skin. 

If external hemorrhoids are difficult to clean, dampen the toilet paper slightly or use a gentle wet wipe to reduce irritation, then dry the area carefully and gently.

What to Do When Hemorrhoids Occur

You should pay close attention to your symptoms and know when to seek medical advice.

See a doctor within the next few days if:

• You notice bleeding during bowel movements
• You experience chronic anal itching
• The pain becomes unbearable
• The pain continues for more than 48 hours despite self-treatment
• Your hemorrhoid pain has already been diagnosed before and was previously treated with a prescription

In some mild cases, self-care and over-the-counter treatments may help relieve symptoms. However, persistent or severe symptoms should never be ignored.

What Does the Doctor Do for Hemorrhoids?

A doctor will first examine you to make sure the bleeding is actually caused by hemorrhoids and not another medical condition. 

If necessary, they may perform a rectal examination, stool analysis, or an anoscopy, which is a simple procedure used to view internal hemorrhoids with a small, non-traumatic device inserted into the anus.

The doctor will also ask about your lifestyle habits and may recommend changes to help prevent future flare-ups.

Treatment options vary depending on the size and severity of the hemorrhoids. 

These may include medications (some available without a prescription), procedures such as rubber band ligation or sclerosis of swollen blood vessels, and in more severe cases, surgery.

Conclusion

Although hemorrhoids can be painful and inconvenient, they are usually manageable with the right habits and early care. Keeping stools soft, avoiding straining, maintaining good hygiene, and seeking medical advice when symptoms become severe can make a big difference. 

Most importantly, don't ignore persistent symptoms — getting proper treatment early can help you avoid complications and feel better much faster.

Medical Sources 

1. Hawkins AT, Davis BR, Bhama AR, et al. The American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hemorrhoids. Dis Colon Rectum. 2024;67(5):614–623. doi:10.1097/DCR.0000000000003276

2. Mounsey AL, Halladay J, Sadiq TS. Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis and Treatment Options. American Family Physician. 2018;97(3):172–179. Available at: https://www.aafp.org/pubs/afp/issues/2018/0201/p172.html

3. Mayo Clinic. Hemorrhoids — Symptoms and Causes. Updated 2025. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268

4. Mayo Clinic. Hemorrhoids — Diagnosis and Treatment. Updated 2025. Available at: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20360280

5. Devooght-Johnson A, et al. Improving Hemorrhoid Outcomes: A Narrative Review and Best Practices Guide for Pharmacists. PubMed Central / National Institutes of Health. 2025. Available at: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12389048/