When to go to the emergency room (ER)

If you have severe pain or excessive bleeding, get medical care right away.

What to expect in the ER

A healthcare provider is likely to check your anus and rectum using a thin, lighted tube (anoscope or proctoscope). You'll get a local pain reliever (anesthetic) to ease any mild pain.

Treatment

Treatment recommendations include:

• If the blood clot has formed within the past 48 to 72 hours, your healthcare provider may remove it from within the hemorrhoid. This is a simple procedure that can ease pain. You'll have a local anesthetic to keep you pain-free during the procedure. The provider makes a small cut (incision) in the skin and removes the blood clot. Stitches are generally not needed.

• If more than 72 hours have passed, your healthcare provider will suggest home treatments. Simple home treatments can ease your pain. These may include warm baths, ointments, suppositories, and witch hazel compresses. Many thrombosed hemorrhoids go away on their own in a few weeks.

• If you have bleeding that continues or painful hemorrhoids, talk with your healthcare provider. Possible treatment may include banding, ligation, or surgical removal (hemorrhoidectomy).

Tips for preventing hemorrhoids

Tips include:

• Eat high-fiber foods and use fiber supplements to help prevent constipation.

• Drink plenty of liquids.

• Get regular exercise to help prevent constipation and promote good bowel function.