How to Shrink Hemorrhoids Naturally at Home

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your lower rectum or anus that can cause pain, itching, and discomfort. While they can affect anyone, many people seek gentle, natural ways to relieve symptoms without medication or invasive procedures.

In this guide, we’ll explore how to shrink hemorrhoids naturally using home-based remedies and simple lifestyle changes.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure on the veins in your lower rectum and anus. This leads to swelling and inflammation. This pressure can result from several factors, often related to lifestyle, diet, or health conditions.

Here are the most common causes:

Straining During Bowel Movements

One of the leading causes of hemorrhoids is straining during bowel movements. This usually happens due to constipation or hard stools, which put pressure on the rectal veins.

Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea

Both long-term constipation and frequent diarrhea can irritate the rectal area. Constipation causes excessive straining, while diarrhea can lead to inflammation from repeated wiping and irritation.

Low-Fiber Diet Can Cause Hemorrhoids

A diet lacking in fiber leads to harder stools and more difficult bowel movements. Without enough fiber, your digestive system doesn’t function efficiently, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.

Prolonged Sitting, Especially on the Toilet

Sitting for long periods – especially on the toilet – causes blood to pool in the veins of the rectum and anus, increasing pressure and promoting swelling.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the pelvic veins, and hormonal changes can slow digestion. These factors make hemorrhoids common in pregnant women, especially in the third trimester.

Obesity

Excess body weight, particularly in the abdominal area, increases pressure on the rectal veins. Obesity also often correlates with poor diet and sedentary lifestyle, which are additional risk factors.

Aging & Hemorrhoids

As you age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken and stretch, making hemorrhoids more likely, especially if you’re over 50.

Heavy Lifting

Frequent or improper heavy lifting increases abdominal pressure, which can lead to the development of hemorrhoids over time.

Hemorrhoids Related to Genetics

Some people may inherit a tendency to develop hemorrhoids due to weaker vein walls or poor circulation in the lower rectum.

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids and Their Impact on Quality of Life

Hemorrhoids, whether internal or external, can significantly affect comfort, daily routines, and your emotional well-being. Recognizing the symptoms early can help with faster relief and better management.

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Rectal Bleeding

• Bright red blood, often noticed on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
• Usually painless but can be alarming.

Pain or Discomfort

• Especially common with external hemorrhoids or when internal hemorrhoids prolapse (bulge outside the anal opening).
• Pain may worsen while you’re sitting, walking, or during bowel movements.

Itching or Irritation

• Persistent itchiness around the anus due to inflammation or mucus discharge.
• Can lead to skin irritation or rashes if not properly managed.

Swelling or a Lump Near the Anus

• A hard, tender lump may develop (thrombosed hemorrhoid), especially with external types.
• May feel like a small grape or marble near the anal opening.

Mucus Discharge

• Internal hemorrhoids can cause a clear or yellowish mucus discharge, leading to further skin irritation and itching.

Feeling of Incomplete Evacuation

• You may feel like you still need to pass stool, even after finishing a bowel movement.

Impact of Hemorrhoids on Quality of Life

Although hemorrhoids aren’t life-threatening, they can have a profound impact on your physical, emotional, and social well-being:

Physical Discomfort of Hemorrhoids

• Constant pain or itching can interfere with your basic daily tasks like sitting, walking, or exercising.
• Your sleep may be disrupted due to pain or the need to reposition frequently.

Anxiety and Embarrassment

• Fear of visible bleeding, odor, or staining may lead to social withdrawal.
• People often delay seeking treatment due to embarrassment, which can worsen your condition.

Reduced Work Productivity

• Discomfort can make sitting for long periods at a desk difficult.
• Frequent bathroom trips or adjustments during work hours may decrease your focus and performance.

Limitations in Daily Activities

• Activities like biking, long walks, or travel may become painful or unmanageable.
• Even intimate relationships can be affected due to discomfort or self-consciousness.

Financial Stress Caused By Hemorrhoids

• Repeated doctor visits, over-the-counter treatments, or surgery for advanced cases can become expensive if not managed early.

Natural Remedies to Shrink Hemorrhoids at Home

Warm Epsom Salt Sitz Baths

Epsom salt sitz baths are a gentle and effective home remedy for relieving the pain, itching, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. This method is simple, affordable, and safe for most people.

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that cleanses and soothes the perineal area (the space between the rectum and genitals). When Epsom salt is added, it boosts the bath’s anti-inflammatory and healing properties.

Soaking in a warm sitz bath for 15–20 minutes, two to three times daily, can help reduce your inflammation and ease itching and burning.

Why Use Epsom Salt?

Epsom salt, also known as magnesium sulfate, helps:

• Reduce inflammation and swelling
• Relieve itching and discomfort
• Improve blood flow and relaxation
• Promote faster healing of hemorrhoids

How to Prepare an Epsom Salt Sitz Bath

• Clean your bathtub or use a plastic sitz bath basin (available at pharmacies).
• Fill the tub or basin with warm water (not hot).
• Add about ½ to 1 cup of Epsom salt to the bath.
• Stir to dissolve completely.
• Sit in the bath for 15–20 minutes, ensuring your anal area is fully submerged.
• Gently pat dry with a soft towel afterward.

You can take 2–3 sitz baths per day, especially after bowel movements, for relief and healing. Do not use hot water, as it may worsen symptoms.

Always dry the area gently to prevent irritation. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor.

Apply Witch Hazel to Hemorrhoids

Witch hazel is a natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties. Use alcohol-free witch hazel on a cotton pad and gently dab it on the affected area. This can relieve itching and shrink hemorrhoids naturally.

Use Pure Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory effects. Apply a thin layer of pure aloe vera gel directly to the hemorrhoid for natural relief. Ensure the aloe vera you’re using is 100% pure to avoid irritation.

Cold Compress or Ice Packs

Applying cold compresses can constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Wrap an ice pack in a soft cloth and apply it for 10–15 minutes. Repeat as needed throughout the day.

High-Fiber Diet relieves Hemorrhoids

A diet rich in fiber softens stools and reduces straining. Include foods like

• Oats
• Leafy greens
• Berries
• Lentils
• Apples

Gradually increase your fiber intake to avoid gas or bloating, and aim for 25–30 grams per day.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water (at least 8 cups per day) helps maintain regular bowel movements and prevents constipation, a major contributor to the condition.

Lifestyle Changes to Support Healing of Hemorrhoids

• Don’t delay going to the bathroom
• Use a footstool to simulate a squatting position
• Avoid prolonged sitting or standing
• Take short walks daily to stimulate digestion

Natural Supplements That May Help Manage Hemorrhoids

Some supplements have been shown to reduce hemorrhoid symptoms naturally:

• Psyllium husk: Adds bulk to stool
• Flavonoids: Found in citrus fruits, they strengthen blood vessel walls.

Always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements.

When to See a Doctor

If your symptoms persist, worsen, or include significant bleeding, consult your doctor. Some conditions may mimic hemorrhoids and require different treatment.

Warning Signs That Require Medical Attention

Persistent or Heavy Rectal Bleeding

• Bright red blood is common with hemorrhoids, but if your bleeding continues after multiple bowel movements or is excessive, consult your doctor.
• Dark or tarry stools may signal bleeding higher in your digestive tract and require immediate evaluation.

Severe or Unmanageable Pain

• Hemorrhoids usually cause mild to moderate discomfort. Sharp, intense, or constant pain may indicate a thrombosed hemorrhoid (a clot in a hemorrhoidal vein) or another anal condition.

A Lump That Doesn’t Go Away

• A persistent lump or swelling near your anus, especially if it’s hard and painful, may need to be drained or surgically removed.
• Not all lumps are hemorrhoids – some could be abscesses, polyps, or tumors.

Signs of Infection

• Redness, warmth, pus, or fever may signal an infection in your anal area.
• This can occur if a thrombosed hemorrhoid becomes infected or if there’s an abscess.

Loss of Bowel Control

• Your inability to control gas or stool is not a typical symptom of hemorrhoids and may suggest nerve damage, rectal prolapse, or other serious conditions.

No Improvement With Home Treatment

• If your symptoms persist longer than 7–10 days despite consistent at-home remedies, it’s time for a medical evaluation.

Unexplained Weight Loss or Fatigue

• These may be symptoms of a more serious gastrointestinal issue, such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Never assume hemorrhoids are the cause of bleeding without confirmation.

Why Medical Attention Matters

While hemorrhoids are common and usually manageable at home, ignoring warning signs can delay the diagnosis of more serious conditions. Your doctor can perform a physical exam or a colonoscopy to confirm the cause of symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment – whether it’s a prescription cream, a minor procedure, or further testing.

Final Thoughts

You can shrink hemorrhoids naturally with consistent care, soothing remedies, and healthy lifestyle choices. These gentle at-home treatments support healing and help prevent future discomfort. Remember, patience and routine are key.

Additional Reading:

How to Treat Constipation Naturally at Home

The Best Herbal Teas to Ease Bloating and Improve Digestion

Natural remedies for hemorrhoids