How long can hemorrhoids last?

Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins that can occur inside of the anus, or they may protrude from the anus in some cases.

Hemorrhoids can last from a few days to a lifetime.

Hemorrhoids may cause itching, bleeding, pain or lumps around the anus. Most cases of hemorrhoids are mild and resolve within a week by themselves or with simple lifestyle changes and over-the-counter hemorrhoid remedies. However, severe cases of hemorrhoids may not go away without treatment.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the hemorrhoids altogether. If your symptoms persist for more than a week or if they're severe, consult a healthcare professional.

Published March 2022.