How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last? Find Out Here !

Andy Paras

2 Feb, 2025

Hemorrhoids are a common health concern that can cause discomfort and pain. While many people experience hemorrhoids once in their lifetime, they can sometimes return.

Understanding the causes of recurring hemorrhoids is essential for preventing future flare-ups.

How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last?

In this article, you will find out How Long Do Hemorrhoids Last?

We'll explore the factors that contribute to the reappearance of hemorrhoids and the treatment options available, including rubber band ligation and hemorrhoidectomy.

We'll also discuss when it's important to consult a healthcare professional for the best course of action.

Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can be very uncomfortable and very irritating. They usually happen because of repeated pressure on the veins in the rectal or anal area.

When this pressure increases, blood starts to build up, causing the veins to swell and the surrounding tissue to stretch. This leads to hemorrhoids.

If you have hemorrhoids, you are not alone. Between 60% and 70% of Canadians will experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.

So, how long do hemorrhoids last? Keep reading to find out!

Unfortunately, there is no exact time frame for how long hemorrhoids last, as the duration varies from person to person.

If you have a small hemorrhoid, it may go away on its own in a few days, and changes in your diet and lifestyle could help.

However, if the hemorrhoid is larger, it may take several days or weeks before you stop feeling symptoms.

As shown in the chart above, hemorrhoids with prolapse can take longer to heal and may require medical treatment.

It's important to note that if you experience bright red rectal bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or dark or tarry stools (which may be a sign of bleeding), you should see your doctor.

If you regularly suffer from hemorrhoids, making changes to your diet and lifestyle can help reduce the pain.

Dietary changes to help with healing and prevention include:

Drink more fluids
Eat fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and beans to reduce bleeding and improve overall symptoms.

Lifestyle changes that aid in healing and prevention are:

Avoid straining during bowel movements
Regular exercise
Warm sitz baths

Over-the-counter remedies can help relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, including:

Flavonoids (e.g., HemovelMD): These bioactive compounds help reduce pain, swelling, and bleeding.
Topical treatments (e.g., Nitroglycerin): Nitroglycerin reduces rectal pain caused by dilated hemorrhoids (hemorrhoids filled with blood clots).
Astringents (e.g., Witch hazel): Help treat mild hemorrhoid symptoms.
Decongestants (e.g., Phenylephrine): Shrink blood vessels to relieve burning sensations and swelling.

Can Hemorrhoids Come Back?

For some people, hemorrhoids can return. Hemorrhoids may reappear due to the following reasons:

Poor diet (lack of fiber)
Obesity
Straining during bowel movements
Diarrhea
Pregnancy
Sitting on the toilet for long periods

While some people experience mild hemorrhoids, those with more severe symptoms may require surgical intervention, such as rubber band ligation.

Rubber Band Ligation is a common procedure for internal hemorrhoids. A small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to shrink it and the surrounding tissue.

This procedure is typically done every four to six weeks and is effective in 8 out of 10 patients.

In rare cases, if hemorrhoids return after rubber band ligation, patients may need a hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal of blood vessels around both internal and external hemorrhoids).

Hemorrhoidectomy has a low complication rate and heals well in 95% of cases.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Hemorrhoid symptoms may indicate other underlying health issues, like colorectal cancer. See a healthcare provider if you experience:

Significant or prolonged rectal bleeding
Dark brown or black blood in your stool
Weakness or fatigue
Unexplained weight loss
Abdominal cramps or pain

Larger hemorrhoids may require medical intervention if they do not resolve on their own.

It’s important to consult a healthcare professional to avoid complications. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your age, health condition, and medical history.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids are very common. While they are generally not serious, they can be extremely irritating and often painful.

The duration of hemorrhoids varies from person to person, but rest assured, there are over-the-counter remedies and medical options available to treat them at any stage.