


Frequently Asked Questions About Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids Questions and Answers

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  • Experiencing complications due to chronic constipation, being overweight, straining during bowel movement, sitting for long periods of time or having a family history of hemorrhoids can increase a person’s risk for this condition
  • Generally, patients with hemorrhoids are said to feel better after around two weeks of treatment

Q: What causes hemorrhoids to flare up?

A: While no exact causes have been determined, hemorrhoids usually manifest because of increased pressure that causes veins in your lower abdomen or rectum to be extensively stretched. Blood vessels in this area eventually bulge and swell, resulting in hemorrhoids.1,2

Q: How do you get hemorrhoids?

A: Different factors can contribute to your chances of being affected with hemorrhoids. Complications due to chronic constipation, being obese, straining during a bowel movement, sitting for long periods of time or having a family history of hemorrhoids can increase a person’s risk for this condition.3,4

Q: What does hemorrhoid pain feel like?

A: Pain depends on the type of hemorrhoid you have. Generally, discomfort or pain doesn’t manifest when you have internal hemorrhoids, although bleeding might occur. Meanwhile, prolapsed hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids that often bulge out of the anus are painful and may itch, crack or bleed. In some cases, a pinching sensation when you pass stool might also be felt.5

Q: How long do hemorrhoids last?

A: Most hemorrhoids may go away after a few days even without treatment. However, take note that if you or someone you know has severe or recurring hemorrhoids, expect a longer recovery time. In some instances, complications that can slow down recovery may manifest.6

Q: How do you cure hemorrhoids?

A: There are various natural remedies that can be done to alleviate hemorrhoid pain. Taking a warm bath or sitz bath, using a bidet instead of dry toilet paper to wipe your bottom after a bowel movement, and applying ice bags or aloe vera on the affected areas are natural, inexpensive and effective methods you may try.7,8,9

Q: Will coconut oil or essential oils work for hemorrhoids?

A: Certain oils could also work for treating hemorrhoids. Coconut oil is an example, as it’s said to help lessen irritation and swelling, and may make you less tempted to scratch the affected area.10 Other essential oils may potentially address hemorrhoids too, such as tea tree oil, lavender oil, cypress oil, dill oil, frankincense oil, chamomile oil and evening primrose oil.11

Q: How do you shrink hemorrhoids if natural treatments aren’t working?

A: If you notice that hemorrhoids are quite large, bleed frequently, trigger excessive pain, disrupt bowel movements, have become swollen and hard or weren’t successfully addressed by natural home remedies, surgical procedures might be considered  after a consultation with your physician.12,13,14 Three types of surgery may be done on hemorrhoids: hemorrhoidectomy, hemorrhoid stapling or hemorrhoidopexy or hemorrhoidal artery ligation.15,16,17,18

Q: Is hemorrhoid cream effective in treating this disease?

A: As much as possible, avoid using anti-itching hemorrhoid creams or lotions. Most of these products contain a local anesthetic that can cause side effects when used frequently.19

Q: Can you use hemorrhoid suppositories to help relieve pain?

A: You should refrain from using hemorrhoid suppositories, as they have been linked to rare but very serious side effects such as:20

Fast and irregular heartbeats




Sleeping difficulties

Serious allergic reactions with common indicators such as rashes, itching, swelling, severe dizziness and breathing difficulties


Hemorrhoids: Introduction

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids Causes

Hemorrhoids Types

Hemorrhoids Symptoms

Hemorrhoids In Pregnancy

Hemorrhoids Treatment

Hemorrhoids Surgery

Hemorrhoids Prevention

Essential Oils for Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids Diet

Hemorrhoids FAQ

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