Hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting millions of people around the world. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), hemorrhoids affect 1 in every 20 Americans, and the condition becomes more common with age. They develop when the veins in the lower rectum or anus swell and inflame. While they can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful, the good news is that most hemorrhoids resolve on their own. But how long do hemorrhoids last?
Identifying the Types of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus. There are two distinct types:
- Internal hemorrhoids grow inside the rectum and are normally painless but can bleed.
- External hemorrhoids form under the skin near the anus and can be painful, itchy, and inflamed.
Hemorrhoid Symptoms to Watch For
Common signs include:
- Pain or discomfort near the anus
- Itching or irritation.
- Swelling around the anus.
- Blood from bowel movements
- External hemorrhoids cause a bulge at the anus.
How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last
If you’re wondering how long it takes for a hemorrhoid to shrink or heal, the healing time depends on the type and severity of the hemorrhoid, as well as individual health factors.
General Duration
Mild hemorrhoids often go away in a few days to a week with home care, such as eating more fiber and staying hydrated.
Moderate to severe hemorrhoids may take several weeks to heal. If symptoms last longer than two weeks, it’s best to see a doctor.
Healing Time Based on Type
External hemorrhoids usually clear up within a week but can take longer if they develop a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoids), which may last two to three weeks.
Internal hemorrhoids often improve within a few days but may last longer if they become prolapsed (bulging out of the rectum).
Factors That Affect Healing
Here are some factors that affect how long for hemorrhoids to go away:
Severity
The more painful or swollen the hemorrhoids are, the longer they may take to heal. Larger or more irritated hemorrhoids may require medical treatment if they do not improve with home care.
Treatment
Home remedies and over-the-counter medications might hasten recovery, although untreated hemorrhoids may last longer. Creams, warm baths, and pain medicines can assist in alleviating discomfort and swelling.
Lifestyle Choices
Eating fiber-rich foods, drinking enough water, and staying active help prevent and heal hemorrhoids faster. A sedentary lifestyle and bad diet might exacerbate symptoms and lengthen healing time.
Hormonal Changes
Hemorrhoids can remain longer due to pregnancy and other hormonal changes. Increased pressure on veins during pregnancy or hormonal shifts can make hemorrhoids more frequent and harder to heal.
If symptoms don’t improve or worsen, a doctor can recommend treatments to help.
Ways to Manage Hemorrhoid Discomfort
Knowing how long a hemorrhoid flare-up lasts can help you manage symptoms better. Flare-ups might occur as a result of straining during bowel motions, sitting too long, or eating specific foods.
Here are some tips to manage flare-ups:
- Eat More Fiber – Add fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to your diet to make stools softer and reduce straining.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
- Keep Moving – Regular exercise helps keep your digestion healthy.
- Use Over-the-Counter Creams – Hemorrhoid creams or ointments can relieve itching and discomfort.
- Take Warm Baths – Sitz baths can soothe irritation and speed up healing.
Effectively Manage Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are a common issue, but they also highlight the importance of gut health and daily habits. Most heal with time and care, but persistent cases show the need for lifestyle changes. Eating healthier, staying active, and controlling stress can help avoid future flare-ups. Instead of simply treating symptoms, implementing these little changes can result in long-term alleviation and improved overall health.