Treatment of hemorrhoids consists of first eliminating the symptoms and secondly, shrinking the hemorrhoids. Pain medication can be used to reduce the aching, but topical hemorrhoid creams and suppositories are best to stop the burning and itching. Sitting in a warm shallow bath several times a day should be helpful in both reducing burning itch and reducing the size of the hemorrhoid. A bulk fiber laxative or stool softener will make bowel movements more comfortable and eliminate straining. Be sure to cleanse the rectal area thoroughly with warm water after each bowel movement. Pain relievers like naproxen sodium contain anti-inflammatory ingredients to lessen pain and swelling and the application of a hemorrhoid cream containing hydrocortisone is effective for further reducing the itch, burning, and swelling. Fast, aggressive treatment should improve hemorrhoids in two to three days, but several weeks of treatment may be needed to completely calm the hemorrhoids.

If you cannot successfully treat your hemorrhoids at home, consult a physician immediately. More serious conditions like bowel infection or inflammatory bowel disease can cause symptoms similar to hemorrhoids and need professional treatment to prevent serious complications. Thrombosed hemorrhoids also require immediate medical attention. These hemorrhoids feel like a hard growth in the anus and are black or purple in color. They cause severe pain and your physician can make a small incision to remove the clot and eliminate bulging and pain instantly. Left untreated, thrombosed hemorrhoids can take weeks to go away.