Reviewed by the HemRid Medical Team | Last updated: April 2026
If you're Googling "how to get rid of hemorrhoids fast," you're probably in pain right now and need answers — not a medical textbook. Here are the 9 most effective methods, organized by how quickly they work, based on clinical evidence and real patient outcomes.
The Honest Truth First
No treatment makes hemorrhoids disappear overnight. But the right combination can provide significant relief within 24-48 hours and full resolution within 1-4 weeks. Here's how to accelerate the process.
1. Take Ibuprofen Immediately
Why it works: Ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin) is both a pain reliever AND anti-inflammatory. It reduces the swelling that makes hemorrhoids painful. Take 400-600mg with food every 6-8 hours.
Speed: Pain relief in 20-45 minutes; inflammation reduction builds over 1-3 days.
Avoid aspirin (increases bleeding risk).
2. Apply Ice, Then Heat
Why it works: Ice constricts swollen blood vessels and numbs pain. Heat promotes blood flow and healing. Alternating between them (contrast therapy) gives you both benefits.
The protocol:
- Ice pack for 10 minutes (wrapped in cloth)
- 5-minute break
- Warm sitz bath for 15-20 minutes
- Repeat 2-3 times daily
Speed: Immediate pain relief; visible swelling reduction in 24-48 hours.
3. Start a Hemorrhoid Supplement
Why it works: HemRid Max contains clinically studied ingredients that work from the inside to support vein health and improve circulation. While topical treatments mask symptoms, an oral supplement addresses the root cause — weakened veins.
Speed: Most users report noticeable improvement within the first few days.
Why start now: The sooner you begin, the faster your veins start healing. Backed by a 120-day money-back guarantee and over 8,000 reviews.
4. Use a Topical Treatment
Why it works: Different topicals serve different purposes:
- For pain: Lidocaine cream (Preparation H Maximum Strength)
- For swelling: Preparation H Ointment (phenylephrine shrinks tissue)
- For itching: Hydrocortisone 1% cream (max 7 days)
- For cleansing: Tucks witch hazel pads
Speed: Pain relief in minutes; swelling reduction in 1-3 days.
5. Take Sitz Baths Religiously
Why it works: Warm water sitz baths are the #1 doctor-recommended home treatment. They relax the anal sphincter, increase blood flow, reduce pain, and promote healing.
The protocol: 15-20 minutes in warm water (100-105°F), 2-3 times daily, especially after bowel movements.
Speed: Immediate comfort; accelerates healing by days.
6. Fix Your Fiber (Today)
Why it works: Clinical studies show fiber supplementation reduces hemorrhoid symptoms by 50% and decreases the risk of recurrence. Soft, bulky stools mean zero straining — the #1 cause of hemorrhoids.
Quick fiber boost:
- Psyllium husk supplement (start today — easiest option)
- Chia seeds (10g fiber per 2 tablespoons)
- Black beans (15g per cup)
- Pears, raspberries, avocados
Target: 25-30g fiber daily + 8 glasses of water
Speed: Easier bowel movements within 1-3 days; hemorrhoid improvement in 1-2 weeks.
Full guide: Best Fiber Foods for Hemorrhoids
7. Stop Making It Worse
You can undo your progress with bad habits. Immediately stop:
- Straining on the toilet — If it doesn't come in 5 minutes, walk away
- Sitting on the toilet too long — No phone, no reading
- Using dry toilet paper — Switch to wet wipes or a bidet
- Sitting for hours — Stand or walk every 30 minutes
- Heavy lifting — Increases pressure on veins
- Eating low-fiber foods — Processed food = hard stools = straining
8. Stay Hydrated
Why it works: Dehydration leads to hard stools, which leads to straining. Drink 8+ glasses of water daily. Increase if you're also increasing fiber (fiber without water can actually cause constipation).
9. Consider Medical Treatment
If home treatment hasn't worked after 2-4 weeks, medical options include:
- Rubber band ligation — 70-97% effective, done in office ($750-$2,100)
- Infrared coagulation — Less painful, 60-80% effective
- Sclerotherapy — Injection that shrinks the hemorrhoid
- Hemorrhoidectomy — Surgery for severe cases (95%+ success rate)
The Fast-Track Plan: Your First 7 Days
| Day | Action |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Start ibuprofen + ice/heat rotation + topical cream + sitz bath. Order HemRid Max and fiber supplement. |
| Day 2 | Continue all treatments. Start increasing fiber and water intake. Stop all bad habits (straining, phone on toilet). |
| Day 3-4 | Begin HemRid Max when it arrives. Pain should be noticeably improving. Continue sitz baths 2-3x daily. |
| Day 5-7 | Significant improvement expected. Reduce ice, continue sitz baths and supplement. Maintain fiber + hydration. |
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get rid of hemorrhoids?
Mild hemorrhoids: 2-7 days with treatment. Moderate hemorrhoids: 1-2 weeks. Severe/thrombosed: 2-4 weeks. The timeline depends on hemorrhoid grade, treatment consistency, and lifestyle changes. Starting a supplement like HemRid Max alongside topical treatment can accelerate recovery.
Can hemorrhoids go away permanently?
Yes. Many hemorrhoids resolve completely and don't return — IF you maintain dietary changes, adequate hydration, and good bathroom habits. Recurrence is most common in people who return to the habits that caused them.
What shrinks hemorrhoids fast?
The fastest shrinkage comes from: ice packs (immediate swelling reduction), Preparation H ointment (phenylephrine vasoconstrictor, 1-3 days), and sitz baths (improved blood flow). For root-cause treatment, HemRid Max supports vein health from the inside.
