The goal of hemorrhoids treatment is usually to relieve uncomfortable symptoms. Physicians may prescribe several treatments including ten-minute warm water baths several times per day or the use of a hemorroidal cream or special suppository.

The prevention of hemorrhoids usually requires relieving the straining common with constipation. Physicians often advise increasing the intake of fluid (usually 6-8 glasses of a non-alcoholic beverage per day) and fiber. Some good sources of fiber are vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. The physician will often suggest a bulk stool softener such as Citrucel or Metamucil. Softer stools makes it easier for the body to empty the bowels. This can lessen the pressure on hemorrhoids caused by excessive straining. By eliminating this straining, it will help prevent the hemorrhoids from protruding.

If non-invasive methods fail, it is sometimes necessary to endoscopically or surgically treat hemorrhoids. The goal of these treatments is to destroy or minimize hemorrhoidal tissue. The physician (often a gastroenterologist) performs the procedure on an outpatient basis.

Other techniques used to treat hemorrhoids include:

• Hemorrhoidectomy
  If the hemorrhoids are severe or particularly extensive, it may be necessary to perform a hemorrhoidectomy. This procedure involves using surgical means to remove hemorrhoids.
  
• Infrared coagulation
  This procedure uses a specialized device to burn hemorrhoidal tissue.
  
• Rubber band ligation
  Sometimes a physician may place a rubber band in the rectum around the base of the hemorrhoid. This rubber band works to cut off circulation to the hemorrhoid.
  
• Sclerotherapy
  Sclerotherapy involves using a special chemical solution that is used to shrink hemorrhoids. It is injected around the blood vessels in the affected areas.