Hemorrhoids can often be effectively dealt with by dietary and lifestyle changes.

• Eat plenty of fruit, leaf vegetables, and whole-grain breads and cereals
• Use bulk-forming laxatives and fiber supplements such as Metamucil, Fiberall, or Citrucel
• Exercise regularly
• Lose excess weight
• Drinking six to eight glasses a day of water or another liquid (not alcohol) also helps
• Avoid sitting and straining too long while using the restroom
• Reading in the bathroom adds to the time one spends on the toilet and may increase the strain placed on the anal and rectal veins
• Avoid using soap or toilet paper that is perfumed which may irritate the anal area
• Avoid excessive cleaning, rubbing, or wiping of the anal area