How Long Does It Take for a Hemorrhoid to Go Away?

Quick Answer

How long a hemorrhoid takes to go away depends entirely on the type and severity. Small external or internal hemorrhoids often resolve within 7–14 days with conservative home treatment. Thrombosed hemorrhoids (those containing a blood clot) are more painful and typically take 2–4 weeks to resolve. Large or prolapsed hemorrhoids may require medical procedures and take 2–6 weeks for full recovery afterward.

Healing Timeline by Hemorrhoid Type

Hemorrhoid Type	Typical Resolution Time
Small external hemorrhoid	7–14 days
Mild internal hemorrhoid (Grade I)	7–14 days
Thrombosed external hemorrhoid	2–4 weeks (pain peaks at 48–72 hours)
Prolapsing internal hemorrhoid (Grade II–III)	May not resolve without treatment
Large prolapsed hemorrhoid (Grade IV)	Requires procedural treatment

Recovery After Medical Procedures

Procedure	Recovery Time	Best For
Rubber band ligation	1–2 weeks	Grade I–III internal hemorrhoids
Sclerotherapy injection	1–2 weeks	Small internal hemorrhoids
Infrared coagulation	1–2 weeks	Grade I–II internal hemorrhoids
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy	2–3 weeks	Prolapsing internal hemorrhoids
Traditional hemorrhoidectomy	3–6 weeks	Severe or recurrent hemorrhoids
THD (transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization)	2–3 weeks	Grade II–III internal hemorrhoids

Home Treatment for Faster Healing

Conservative home treatment is the first line of approach for most hemorrhoids and can significantly speed up healing:

• Sitz baths: Soak in warm (not hot) water for 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily. This reduces swelling and relaxes the sphincter muscles.
• Fiber supplementation: Aim for 25–30 grams of fiber daily through diet or supplements like psyllium husk. Soft, bulky stools reduce straining.
• Hydration: Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily to keep stools soft.
• Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams or suppositories containing hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine can provide temporary relief.
• Avoid straining: Never push or strain during bowel movements. If it doesn't come easily, get up and try again later.
• Don't sit too long: Limit toilet time to 5 minutes or less. Prolonged sitting on the toilet increases pressure on hemorrhoidal veins.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. Common causes include:

• Chronic constipation and straining — the most common cause
• Prolonged sitting — especially on the toilet
• Pregnancy — increased abdominal pressure and hormonal changes
• Obesity — excess weight increases pelvic pressure
• Heavy lifting — repeated Valsalva maneuver strains pelvic veins
• Aging — the supporting tissues weaken over time
• Low-fiber diet — leads to hard stools and straining

When to See a Doctor

While hemorrhoids are rarely dangerous, you should seek medical evaluation if you experience rectal bleeding (to rule out more serious conditions), a hemorrhoid that does not improve after 2 weeks of home treatment, severe pain from a thrombosed hemorrhoid (especially within the first 48–72 hours when excision is most effective), a hemorrhoid that prolapses and cannot be pushed back in, or signs of infection such as fever, increasing redness, or pus.

Preventing Recurrence

Hemorrhoids have a tendency to recur. The most effective prevention strategy centers on maintaining soft, regular bowel movements through a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and regular physical activity. Avoid prolonged sitting, respond promptly to the urge to have a bowel movement, and never strain. These lifestyle modifications are more effective at preventing recurrence than any medication.