Hemorrhoid Pain Relief: 7 Fast Ways to Stop the Pain (Including Nighttime Tips)

Hemorrhoid pain can be debilitating — making sitting, walking, and even sleeping unbearable.

The good news? Relief is possible — often within minutes to hours.

Here are the 7 most effective, doctor-recommended methods to stop hemorrhoid pain fast — including special tips for nighttime relief.

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1. Cold Compress (Ice Pack)

How it works: Numbs nerve endings, reduces swelling.

How to use:

• Wrap ice pack in thin towel
• Apply to area for 10–15 minutes
• Repeat every 1–2 hours

✅ Pro tip: Use a bag of frozen peas — molds to the area.

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2. Sitz Bath with Epsom Salt

How it works: Warm water relaxes muscles, Epsom salt (magnesium) reduces inflammation.

How to use:

• Fill basin with warm water + 2 tbsp Epsom salt
• Soak for 10–15 minutes
• Pat dry — apply lidocaine cream if needed

✅ Do this after bowel movements and before bed.

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3. Lidocaine Cream or Spray

How it works: Topical anesthetic — blocks pain signals.

Top picks:

• Preparation H Rapid Relief (cream)
• Americaine Hemorrhoidal (spray — easier application)

⚠️ Don’t use >7 days — can cause skin thinning.

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4. Donut Cushion or Memory Foam Seat

How it works: Reduces pressure on anal area.

Best for: Office, car, plane, or home office.

✅ Look for gel or memory foam — more comfortable than cheap plastic.

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5. Positional Changes

Avoid: Sitting upright for long periods
Try:

• Lying on your side (reduces pelvic pressure)
• Standing desk (if WFH)
• Kneeling chair (reduces anal pressure)

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6. Loose, Breathable Clothing

Why: Tight pants or synthetic underwear trap heat/moisture → worsens pain and itching.

Choose: Cotton underwear, loose pajamas, breathable fabrics.

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7. Nighttime Relief Routine

Many report worse pain at night — here’s how to sleep better:

1. Take a sitz bath 30 min before bed
2. Apply lidocaine cream
3. Sleep on your side — place pillow between knees
4. Use breathable cotton sheets
5. Keep water by bed — hydration reduces morning constipation

✅ Bonus: Place ice pack wrapped in towel near bed — use if pain wakes you.

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What NOT to Do

❌ Action	✅ Better Alternative
Sitting on hard chairs	Use cushion or stand
Using scented wipes	Use witch hazel pads or wet toilet paper
Scratching	Apply cold compress or cream
Delaying bowel movements	Go when you feel the urge

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FAQs

Why do hemorrhoids hurt more at night?

Possible reasons: increased awareness when lying down, muscle relaxation causing prolapse, or nighttime constipation.

Can I take painkillers like ibuprofen?

Yes — ibuprofen or acetaminophen can reduce pain and inflammation. Avoid aspirin — can increase bleeding.

Is heat or cold better for hemorrhoid pain?

Cold for acute pain/swelling. Heat (sitz bath) for chronic discomfort or muscle tension.

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Want to prevent future flare-ups? See our complete Hemorrhoid Prevention Guide.

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