How to Prevent Hemorrhoids with Home Remedies

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are caused by any straining that puts pressure on the veins in your anus and rectum, which makes them swollen and inflamed.² As a result, pushing too hard for bowel movements or straining to lift heavy objects are some common causes of hemorrhoids.² Hemorrhoids also often develop in people who are pregnant or have gained weight because they both result in increased pelvic pressure.²

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoid symptoms differ based on the type of hemorrhoids you have. Swollen veins in the rectum are internal hemorrhoids, and swollen veins that form underneath the skin around the anus are external hemorrhoids.² Internal hemorrhoids are often painless, and the only symptom you may experience is rectal bleeding.² On the other hand, external hemorrhoids can cause itchiness and pain in the anus as well as rectal bleeding.²  Hemorrhoid symptoms typically last for about a week and rarely lead to more serious problems.²

What Are Some Home Remedies for Preventing Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoid symptoms can be prevented with several different home remedies and lifestyle changes. Here are some effective home remedies to help with your symptoms:

1. Drink Plenty of Water

Staying hydrated is a good way to prevent hemorrhoids. Not drinking enough water can lead to constipation, and people with chronic constipation are more likely to get hemorrhoids.^2,3 Water also helps your body get rid of wastes and keeps it at a normal temperature.⁴ Eating foods with high water content and drinking water are both good ways to keep your body hydrated and reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.^3,4 Make an effort to drink around six to eight glasses of water per day, or keep a water bottle on you at all times to remind yourself.⁴ You may need to drink more water if you are in a hot climate, are more physically active or are running a fever.⁴

2. Eat High-Fiber Foods

Eating foods that are high in fiber can soften stool and make it easier to pass, which in turn helps to prevent hemorrhoids.⁵ Try to consume around 28 grams of fiber a day on a 2,000-calorie diet.5 Some high-fiber foods include beans, grains, vegetables and fruits.⁵ Apples and pears also have fiber in their skin, so make sure to skip the extra step of peeling these fruits.⁵

Avoiding low-fiber foods that can exacerbate your hemorrhoid symptoms might also help with preventing hemorrhoids.⁵ Some of these foods include cheese, fast food, ice cream, processed foods and frozen meals.⁵

3. Take Psyllium Husk Supplements

Another way to increase your fiber intake is to take psyllium husk supplements.⁶ Psyllium husk supplements can also soften your stool and make your bowel movements more regular.⁶ Be cautious of taking psyllium husk along with other high-fiber foods, as too much fiber can cause gas or stomach cramping, and drink plenty of water along with this supplement.⁶

4. Use Aloe Vera

While aloe vera is not a proven way to treat hemorrhoids, the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant may help soothe inflammation from hemorrhoids.⁶ If you decide to try aloe vera as a treatment method, stick to pure aloe and avoid using aloe products that contain other ingredients.⁶

5. Exercise

A few minutes of exercise can go a long way when treating hemorrhoids. Moderate exercise can help stimulate bowel function and help with your symptoms.⁷ Going for a quick 20-30 minute walk every day is a good start.⁷

Relieving Your Symptoms with Over-The-Counter Products for Hemorrhoids

Home remedies for preventing hemorrhoids may not work immediately, and over-the-counter products can help symptoms when they come. Over-the-counter products that contain lidocaine, witch hazel or hydrocortisone can help with hemorrhoid symptoms. When it comes to treating hemorrhoid symptoms, Preparation H has your back with a wide variety of products for any flare-up. Use Preparation H Rapid Relief with Lidocaine Spray to numb the burning and itching, or feel the soothing relief of witch hazel with Preparation H Soothing Relief Cleansing & Cooling Wipes. For on-the-go relief, grab a handful of Preparation H Rapid Relief Totable Wipes for the road.

With these simple treatment methods, you can keep your most bothersome hemorrhoid symptoms at bay. Find more hemorrhoid treatment tips on the Preparation H website.

Source Citations:

1. Definition & Facts of Hemorrhoids. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/definition-facts  Accessed 9/21/2022.
2. Hemorrhoids. Cleveland Clinic. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/15120-hemorrhoids  Accessed 9/21/2022.
3. Natural remedies for hemorrhoids. Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/natural-remedies-for-hemorrhoid-2021022321942  Accessed 9/21/2022.
4. Water and Healthier Drinks. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/healthy_eating/water-and-healthier-drinks.html  Accessed 9/21/2022.
5. Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Hemorrhoids. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/eating-diet-nutrition  Accessed 9/21/2022.
6. 5 Best and Worst Home Remedies for Your Hemorrhoids. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-hemorrhoids/  Accessed 9/21/2022.
7. Hemorrhoids and what to do about them. Harvard Health Publishing. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-get-rid-of-hemorrhoids/  Accessed 9/21/2022.