Yes, hemorrhoids can shrink back to normal with proper treatment and self-care. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum, and they can be internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, while external hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus.
In some cases, hemorrhoids may shrink back to normal on their own without any treatment. However, this may take a long time, and it’s important to practice good self-care habits to help speed up the healing process.
Some self-care measures that can help shrink hemorrhoids include:
- Soaking in a warm bath for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day
- Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the affected area to reduce swelling
- Using over-the-counter creams or ointments that contain witch hazel or hydrocortisone to relieve itching and pain
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen
- Eating a high-fiber diet and drinking plenty of water to help prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements
- Avoiding sitting for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces
If self-care measures aren’t effective, your doctor may recommend other treatments such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgery to remove the hemorrhoids. With proper treatment and self-care, most hemorrhoids will shrink back to normal within a few weeks.
