Hemorrhoid Treatment and Surgery

About This Treatment

Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and painful. But relief is possible. We offer the full range of hemorrhoid treatments, including topical medications and surgery.

Hemorrhoid banding

Hemorrhoid banding, or rubber band ligation, is a common procedure that treats persistent bleeding or pain caused by hemorrhoids. During this office procedure, your doctor puts a rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid. The band cuts off its blood supply so it shrivels and dies.

This procedure does not require anesthesia. You typically recover in one to two days.

Hemorrhoid surgery

If hemorrhoid banding or other treatments don't relieve your symptoms, your doctor may recommend a hemorrhoidectomy. During this outpatient procedure, your surgeon removes the swollen veins causing your symptoms.

Hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective and complete way to treat severe or recurring hemorrhoids. Most patients recover within two to six weeks.

Treating hemorrhoids at home

When hemorrhoids first appear, some home remedies can help symptoms go away quickly. If they don't or you have severe pain or bleeding, call your doctor immediately. Once a hemorrhoid reaches a certain size, prescription medication or other treatments may be necessary.

Try one or more of these effective hemorrhoid home remedies.

Take over-the-counter pain relievers, topical creams or suppositories

• Make sure to use a cream that contains hydrocortisone, which can soothe pain and itch with minimal side effects.
• Don't use hydrocortisone cream for more than a week unless your doctor approves it.
• Try pain relievers, such as acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen.

Soak the area

• Soak the anal area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, two to three times daily.
• You can use a sitz bath, which is a plastic tub that fits over the toilet.
• You do not need soap, which can aggravate the area.

Use soothing wipes

• Use moist towelettes or wet toilet paper after bowel movements.
• Avoid wipes that contain perfume or alcohol.

Use cold compresses

• Apply a cold pack on the affected area several times a day to help reduce pain and swelling.