Some hemorrhoids treatments relieve symptoms immediately, while others require you to modify your diet and exercise habits. These changes can relieve constipation and prevent the return of your hemorrhoids’ symptoms.

How to relieve symptoms:

Your doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve symptoms. The following tips will also help reduce pain and swelling.

- Take sitz baths. Taking a sitz bath means sitting in a tub containing a few inches of warm water. Soak the area for 15-20minutes twice a day can mean a big relief for painful hemorrhoids and can help you maintaining clean the area.

- Change your bowel habits. Go to the bathroom when your body needs it; do not ignore the urge to go, since postponing the evacuation can cause constipation, hard stools and straining. Also, avoid reading while on the toilet. Sit just as long as necessary, and wipe gently with soft toilet paper or unscented baby wipes.

- Use ice packs. Apply an ice pack to a thrombosed external hemorrhoid can relieve pain immediately and reduce blood clot. Use the ice for 15-20 minutes at a time; to avoid skin damage, place a cloth between the ice and the application area.

- Take other measures. Although laxatives and enemas can relieve constipation, use them only if your doctor recommends them. To ease symptoms, try to apply pads soaked in witch hazel solution that you can get at most pharmacies. Ointments for hemorrhoids (OTC over-the-counter) and petroleum jelly can also relieve discomfort.