Can You Pop a Hemorrhoid? 2025
If you’ve got hemorrhoids, the pain, swelling, and discomfort can really be unbearable at times. You may even consider taking matters into your own hands, and think “for Can I pop a hemorrhoid some relief?” So let’s get this out of the way now: popping a hemorrhoid is not a good idea and popping hemorrhoids can pose serious health risks.
But don’t worry! I’m here to tell you why this method has, at best, limited safety and what you can do instead that will alleviate your symptoms quickly and effectively.
What Exactly Are Hemorrhoids?
Based on the above Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in your rectum or around your anus Imagine them like varicose veins, but in a far less advantageous spot. They’re extremely common—nearly half of adults will experience them at some point.
There are two main types:
Internal Hemorrhoids – Located in the rectum. These typically don’t hurt but can be bloody.
External Hemorrhoids – Located under the skin around your anus. These can itch, burn and hurt — especially when inflamed.
What Happens If You Pop a Hemorrhoid?
Popping a hemorrhoid sounds like an easy solution, but trust me, it’s not. Here’s why:
Risk of Infection
There is a lot of bacteria in your anal area, so popping a hemorrhoid creates an open wound and a perfect home for bacteria to thrive and cause infection. Think abscesses, or worse, a potentially life-threatening condition like sepsis.
Heavy Bleeding
Palpate — Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels. A pop can cause a lot of bleeding that may be difficult to stop.
More Pain, Not Less
Popping a hemorrhoid can make the swelling and irritation worse, and you’ll end up in more discomfort.
Delayed Healing
Rather than expedite things, however, rupturing a hemorrhoid might result in complications such as scarring or tissue damage, which can actually impede your body’s ability to heal on its own.
What to Do Instead: Safer Methods for Treating Hemorrhoids
The good news? There’s no need to (pop). There are a wealth of safe and effective treatments for managing hemorrhoids. Here are some options:
Try Home Remedies
Sitz baths: Soak your backside in warm water 15–20 minutes, two–three times daily. This helps reduce swelling and soothe irritation.
Cold Compresses: An ice pack can relieve pain and swelling.
Get OTC creams and ointments: Products with hydrocortisone or witch hazel can soothe itching and inflammation.
Make Lifestyle Changes
Eat More Fiber: You need fruits, vegetables and whole grains to prevent constipation and reduce the need to strain during bowel movements.
(Don’t Forget to) Drink Water: It helps keep your stools soft.
Exercise: Moving your body is a great way to get your digestion moving, especially if you tend to sit for long periods of time.
Seek Medical Treatment
Minimally Invasive Options: When home care isn’t enough, your doctor may recommend treatments like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy.
Surgery For the more severe cases, there are procedures such as a Hemorrhoidectomy that can take care of the problem completely.
When Should You See a Doctor?
It’s time to call in the pros if you have:
Having pain or discomfort that doesn’t go away.
Significant bleeding.
Infection symptoms such as fever or pus.
A thrombosed hemorrhoid that causes tremendous pain.
Doctors see hemorrhoids all the time, so don’t be afraid to get help.” They’ve been through it all — no judgment!
5 Frequently Asked Questions: Popping or Rupturing Hemorrhoids
Can You Die from Popping a Hemorrhoid?
Popping a hemorrhoid directly is not going to cause you to die but can actively lead to life threatening complications if not managed properly. Popping leaves an open wound in a region vulnerable to bacteria, heightening the possibility of infection, abscess formation or even sepsis — a potentially life-threatening condition. If you have severe pain, heavy bleeding or infection symptoms such as fever, call a doctor right away.
Can a Hemorrhoid Burst While You Poop?
Yes, a hemorrhoid can burst when you’re moving your bowels, particularly if you’re straining or passing hard stools. When that occurs, you might feel a sudden release of pressure or bleeding. Although this can sound alarming, it’s not always dangerous. Wash gently around the area, use warm sitz baths to help prevent infection, and slather on a soothing ointment. But if the bleeding is heavy or doesn’t stop, reach out to a doctor immediately.
Is a Ruptured Hemorrhoid Actually Dangerous?
A ruptured hemorrhoid itself isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it can become a problem without proper management. The bleeding typically resolves on its own, but inadequate hygiene or delayed treatment can lead to infections and prolonged healing. If you see continuing bleeding, pus, or signs of severe irritation, you should definitely get medical advice to rule out more serious issues like anal fissures or infections.
Is It Possible to Drain a Hemorrhoid with a Syringe or Needle?
No, do not attempt to drain a hemorrhoid yourself with a syringe or a needle. That is a very dangerous process and should only be done by a medical professional in an aseptic setting. Trying it yourself can lead to infections, uncontrolled bleeding and more tissue damage. If you suspect that your hemorrhoid is thrombosed and requires draining, see a doctor for a safe and effective treatment.
How Do You Treat a Ruptured Hemorrhoid?
Treatment of a burst hemorrhoid includes maintaining hygiene and using soothing treatment to aid healing and prevent infection:
Gently Clean the Area: Mild soap and warm water can be used to clean the area after a bowel movement.
Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking 15–20 minutes in warm water helps ease discomfort and assists healing.
Apply a Soothing Ointment: Over-the-counter products with hydrocortisone or witch hazel can help reduce irritation.
Avoid constipation: A high-fiber diet and lots of fluids can soften stool and lessen the need to bear down.
If bleeding lasts longer than a few days, or you experience abnormal symptoms such as pus or severe pain, please call your physician for evaluation.”
