Version July 2025
Please read the Disclaimer at the end of this page.
What are discharge instructions? —
Discharge instructions are information about how to take care of yourself after getting medical care in the emergency department ("ED").
What should I know? —
You came to the ED for hemorrhoids. These are swollen veins in the rectum. They can cause itching, bleeding, and pain. Hemorrhoids are very common.
You might be able to see or feel your hemorrhoid around the outside of your rectum. Or it might be hidden inside your rectum.
Try to avoid getting constipated (when your bowel movements are too hard, small, or difficult to get out). This can make your hemorrhoid worse.
How do I care for myself at home? —
Ask the doctor or nurse what you should do when you go home. Make sure you understand exactly what you need to do to care for yourself. Ask questions if there is anything you do not understand.
You should also do the following:
●Call your regular doctor and tell them you were in the ED. Make a follow-up appointment if you were told to.
●Take sitz baths. This is when you soak your bottom in 2 to 3 inches (5 to 8 cm) of warm water. Soak for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. You can do this 2 to 3 times each day. Do not add soap, bubble bath, or anything else to the water.
●Use over-the-counter medicines to treat your hemorrhoid. These include ointments and creams to help with pain and swelling. You can also use a product like witch hazel to help dry out your skin in the area.
●To help with constipation:
•Use stool softeners if needed.
•Eat high-fiber foods. These include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
•Drink plenty of water and other fluids each day. This helps keep your bowel movements soft.
•Set a regular schedule to try and have a bowel movement. Do not ignore the urge to go to the bathroom or hold it in.
•Give yourself plenty of time to have a bowel movement, but do not linger on the toilet when you're finished.
•Try to get some mild exercise every day, like walking.
●Avoid heavy lifting or straining while your hemorrhoid is healing.
When should I get emergency help?
●Return to the ED if:
•You have a lot of bleeding from your rectum.
•Your bowel movement looks like tar.
When should I call the doctor? —
Call for advice if:
●You have a fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or chills.
●You cannot have a bowel movement because of pain from your hemorrhoid.
●Your pain gets worse and is not helped with treatment.
●You have new or worsening symptoms.
Patient education: Hemorrhoids (The Basics)
Patient education: Hemorrhoid removal (The Basics)
Patient education: How to take a sitz bath (The Basics)
Patient education: Constipation in adults (The Basics)
Patient education: High-fiber diet (The Basics)
Patient education: Hemorrhoids (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: Constipation in adults (Beyond the Basics)
Patient education: High-fiber diet (Beyond the Basics)
