20 ways to get rid of Hemorrhoids without Surgery

Nobody wakes up thinking, You know what would make today great? A hemorrhoid! Yet here you are, wondering if you can get rid of hemorrhoids without surgery. The good news? Yes, you can. While severe cases may require medical intervention, most hemorrhoids can shrink, heal, and even disappear with the right approach—no scalpel required.
But before you start Googling questionable home remedies, let’s talk about real, science-backed treatments that work. Whether you’re dealing with prolapsed hemorrhoids, painful flare-ups, or chronic irritation, this guide covers the best ways to treat hemorrhoids without surgery, including lifestyle changes, home remedies, and medical treatments that don’t involve cutting you open.
Can You Get Rid of Hemorrhoids Without Surgery?
Yes! Most hemorrhoids can be treated non-surgically—even some Grade 3 or Grade 4 hemorrhoids, depending on the severity. Here’s how:
- Early-stage hemorrhoids: Respond well to home treatments, lifestyle changes, and over-the-counter medications.
- Moderate hemorrhoids (Grade 2-3): May require minimally invasive medical procedures but still no surgery.
- Severe or prolapsed hemorrhoids (Grade 4): Often need medical treatment but can sometimes be managed without surgery using advanced non-invasive techniques.
The key to shrinking hemorrhoids without surgery is knowing what works for your specific case. So, let’s break it all down.
How to Remove Hemorrhoids Without Surgery
The idea of removing hemorrhoids without surgery might sound too good to be true, but it’s entirely possible—especially if caught early. The goal is to shrink, heal, and prevent them from worsening through targeted treatments.
1. Home Remedies for Hemorrhoid Relief
For mild to moderate hemorrhoids, home remedies can be highly effective in reducing inflammation, stopping pain, and shrinking hemorrhoids naturally.
Sitz Baths (Warm Water Soaking)
- Soaking in warm water for 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day reduces swelling, irritation, and discomfort.
- Epsom salt baths can help relieve itching and inflammation faster.
Cold Compresses
- Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth directly to the hemorrhoid for 10-15 minutes can help shrink swollen tissue and numb pain instantly.
- This works best for external hemorrhoids that are swollen and painful.
Witch Hazel & Natural Astringents
- Witch hazel is a natural anti-inflammatory that shrinks hemorrhoids and relieves irritation.
- Use witch hazel pads or apply it directly with a cotton ball for relief.
Aloe Vera Gel
- Aloe vera has cooling and healing properties that can reduce itching and swelling when applied directly to external hemorrhoids.
Coconut Oil & Tea Tree Oil
- Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that reduces irritation.
- Tea tree oil has anti-inflammatory properties—mix a few drops with coconut oil for an effective home treatment.
2. Lifestyle Changes to Shrink Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids often flare up due to poor diet, lack of movement, or excessive straining. Making small changes in daily habits can help heal hemorrhoids naturally and prevent them from coming back.
Increase Fiber Intake
- Eating fiber-rich foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and legumes makes stools softer, reducing strain during bowel movements.
- Fiber supplements like Metamucil or psyllium husk can also help.
Stay Hydrated
- Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily to keep stools soft and easy to pass.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, which can dehydrate and worsen constipation.
Stop Straining on the Toilet
- Avoid prolonged sitting—if you’re on the toilet for longer than 5 minutes, you’re putting unnecessary pressure on your hemorrhoids.
- Use a squatty potty or elevate your feet while sitting to allow for a more natural bowel movement.
Regular Exercise
- Physical movement improves circulation and prevents blood from pooling in the rectal veins, which contributes to hemorrhoid formation.
- Walking, yoga, and pelvic floor exercises can prevent and shrink hemorrhoids naturally.
3. Non-Surgical Medical Treatments
If home remedies aren’t working, but you still want to avoid surgery, there are minimally invasive procedures that can remove hemorrhoids without a scalpel.
Rubber Band Ligation
- A small rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid’s base, cutting off its blood supply.
- The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a week—no surgery needed.
Sclerotherapy
- A chemical injection shrinks the hemorrhoid, reducing symptoms quickly.
- Best for small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids.
Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
- Heat is applied to the hemorrhoid, sealing off its blood supply and causing it to shrink over time.
- Effective for internal hemorrhoids that bleed but are not prolapsed.
Can Grade 4 Hemorrhoids Go Away Without Surgery?
- Grade 4 hemorrhoids (severely prolapsed, cannot be pushed back in) almost always require medical treatment.
- Rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and infrared coagulation can help avoid surgery in some cases.
- If the hemorrhoid is too large or thrombosed (has a blood clot), surgery may be the best option.
How to Get Rid of Prolapsed Hemorrhoids Without Surgery
A prolapsed hemorrhoid is an internal hemorrhoid that has fallen outside the anus, making it more painful and difficult to ignore. While some cases require surgical removal, mild to moderate prolapsed hemorrhoids can often be treated without surgery using these methods:
- Push it back in (if possible) – If your prolapsed hemorrhoid is Grade 2 or 3, gently pushing it back inside can help prevent irritation. Wash your hands, apply a little lubricant, and carefully push it back into place.
- Use anti-inflammatory treatments – Apply witch hazel, hydrocortisone creams, or aloe vera to reduce swelling.
- Try sitz baths – Warm water can help relax the rectal muscles and reduce inflammation.
- Strengthen the pelvic floor – Kegel exercises can improve rectal muscle tone, helping to prevent hemorrhoids from prolapsing further.
For larger prolapsed hemorrhoids, non-surgical procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy may be necessary.
Can You Heal Hemorrhoids Without Surgery?
Yes! Hemorrhoids can heal naturally if you take the right approach. The key is to reduce inflammation, improve bowel habits, and make lifestyle adjustments to prevent them from returning. While some cases may require minimally invasive medical treatments, the majority of hemorrhoids can be managed and eliminated without surgery.
How to Get Rid of Painful Hemorrhoids Without Surgery
If your hemorrhoids are causing significant pain, focus on reducing swelling and relieving pressure with these steps:
- Apply a numbing hemorrhoid cream – Look for one containing lidocaine or hydrocortisone for fast relief.
- Take warm sitz baths – Soaking the affected area multiple times a day helps reduce inflammation.
- Use pain relievers – Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help.
- Avoid irritating the area – Wipe gently with wet wipes or use witch hazel pads instead of toilet paper.
Can Hemorrhoids Go Away Without Surgery?
The answer depends on severity and treatment methods:
- Small hemorrhoids: Often shrink and heal on their own within a few days.
- Medium-sized hemorrhoids: Usually go away with home remedies and over-the-counter treatments.
- Large or prolapsed hemorrhoids: May take weeks to shrink and may need medical intervention.
Removal of Hemorrhoids Without Surgery: What Works?
If you’re looking for non-surgical hemorrhoid removal, the most effective options include:
- Rubber Band Ligation – The most common procedure for internal hemorrhoids.
- Infrared Coagulation – Uses heat to shrink hemorrhoids.
- Sclerotherapy – A chemical injection that shrinks and removes hemorrhoids.
- Lifestyle changes – Fiber, hydration, and exercise can eliminate mild cases without medical treatment.
Is It Possible to Cure Hemorrhoids Without Surgery?
Yes, but prevention is key. If you change your diet, improve your bowel habits, and avoid excessive straining, you can prevent hemorrhoids from coming back. Here’s what to do:
- Increase fiber intake – Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily.
- Stay hydrated – Drink at least 8 glasses of water per day.
- Exercise regularly – Keeps blood circulation flowing and prevents constipation.
- Avoid prolonged sitting – Standing and stretching frequently prevents pressure buildup.
Final Thoughts
Getting rid of hemorrhoids without surgery is possible—but only if you take action. Early treatment and lifestyle adjustments can shrink hemorrhoids before they become severe. While home remedies and medical procedures like rubber band ligation and sclerotherapy can eliminate most cases, severe hemorrhoids may still require surgery.
If you’re experiencing persistent pain, bleeding, or prolapsed hemorrhoids that won’t go away, talk to a doctor about your non-surgical treatment options. And remember:
✅ Fiber is your best friend
✅ Straining is your worst enemy
✅ Your phone does NOT belong in the bathroom!
Find more expert-backed health tips.