- Keep anal area clean
- Soak in warm bath or sitz bath several times a day (a warm, shallow bath that cleanses the perineum)
- Apply ice packs or cold compresses to area
- Apply petroleum jelly inside the anus to allow stool to pass less painfully
- Apply witch hazel on irritated hemorrhoids to reduce pain
- Increase high fiber foods
- Increase fluid intake
- Limit salt intake
- Avoid using dry toilet paper
- Avoid straining
- Avoid standing for long periods of time
- Avoid sitting for long periods
- Have bowel movement when urge is felt
Over-the-counter medicines for pain (refer to manufacturer’s recommendations for dosage):
- Acetaminophen
- Ibuprofen
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Diphenhydramine
- AVOID Aspirin and Ibuprofen
SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION IF:
- You have bleeding with bowel movements
- You have black, tarry stools, or blood clots
- You have a change in bowel habits
- Your hemorrhoids cause pain
- Your hemorrhoids don’t improve with home treatment
SEEK EMERGENCY MEDICAL ATTENTION IF:
- You have a large amount of rectal bleeding, dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness