How to treat internal hemorrhoids
Dec 12, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Feng
Introduction
Treatment for internal hemorrhoids mainly includes general management, medication, sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, and surgical intervention, with the appropriate approach selected according to disease severity. Prompt medical attention is required if symptoms such as worsening rectal bleeding, prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue that cannot be reduced, or severe pain occur. For mild internal hemorrhoids, treatment involves adjusting diet by increasing dietary fiber intake and establishing regular bowel habits.
Internal hemorrhoids are mainly treated through general management, medication, sclerotherapy, rubber band ligation, and surgical treatment, with the appropriate approach chosen based on disease severity. Immediate medical attention is required if symptoms such as worsening rectal bleeding, prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue that cannot be reduced, or severe pain occur.
1. General Management: Suitable for mild internal hemorrhoids. Symptoms can be relieved by adjusting diet to include more dietary fiber, establishing regular bowel habits, avoiding prolonged sitting or standing, and taking warm sitz baths, all of which help reduce congestion in the anal veins.
2. Medication: Topical suppositories, creams, or oral medications may be used to reduce swelling and pain, stop bleeding, and relieve inflammation. These help alleviate discomfort caused by internal hemorrhoids such as rectal bleeding, itching, and a feeling of heaviness, while also controlling disease progression.
3. Sclerotherapy: A sclerosing agent is injected into the submucosal layer of the hemorrhoid to induce shrinkage and necrosis. This method is suitable for grade II and III internal hemorrhoids, with advantages of simple operation, minimal invasiveness, and rapid recovery.
4. Rubber Band Ligation: A special rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to wither and fall off. This is effective for grade II and III internal hemorrhoids, with reliable outcomes and relatively few complications.
5. Surgical Treatment: Includes hemorrhoidectomy and stapled hemorrhoidopexy. These are indicated for severe internal hemorrhoids or cases unresponsive to conservative therapy, effectively removing hemorrhoidal tissue and resolving problems such as prolapse and massive bleeding.
During treatment, patients should maintain a light diet avoiding spicy and irritating foods, keep the anal area clean and dry, perform moderate pelvic floor exercises (such as Kegel exercises) to strengthen pelvic floor muscles, and maintain regular sleep patterns avoiding late nights, all of which support recovery and reduce the risk of recurrence.
