How long do hemorrhoids last?
Medically reviewed by Dr. Robert William, MD · Written by Kevin Schwaner · Updated July 2026
Quick Answer
Mild hemorrhoids often clear within a few days to two weeks with conservative care. External and thrombosed hemorrhoids can take one to two weeks to settle, and larger or recurring internal hemorrhoids may persist or return until the underlying causes (straining, low fiber, prolonged sitting) are addressed. Symptoms lasting beyond a couple of weeks should be evaluated by a doctor.
There is no fixed timeline, because it depends on grade and habits. A mild flare treated promptly, more fiber and water, less straining, sitz baths, and a symptom-matched topical, often calms within a few days to two weeks. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid is painful for the first couple of days and typically resolves over one to two weeks.
Larger internal hemorrhoids (Grade III to IV) and recurrent cases behave differently: they may persist or keep returning until the drivers, straining, low fiber, prolonged sitting, and vein weakness, are addressed. That is why prevention (fiber, hydration, internal support) shortens both the current flare and the gap before the next one. Symptoms lasting beyond a couple of weeks, or any ongoing bleeding, warrant evaluation.
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Sources
- NIH / NIDDK: Hemorrhoids
- ASCRS Clinical Practice Guidelines for the Management of Hemorrhoids
Related Questions
Can hemorrhoids go away on their own? →How do you prevent hemorrhoids? →What is a thrombosed hemorrhoid? →*Informational only, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Any rectal bleeding should be evaluated by a doctor. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA.