Suppositories Vs Topical Products
Hemorrhoid suppositories have one key advantage over topical hemorrhoid formulations: they release their active ingredient gradually and over a period of time.
This is important because it allows the delivery of small doses of the active ingredient as the suppository melts. Consider the suppository as a drug reservoir supplying little doses as needed.
This means that suppositories allow active ingredients to act longer while reducing the number of times you need to re-apply hemorrhoid medications.
Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment For Haemorrhoids
Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment can be called the best haemorrhoid treatment over the counter. Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment is available in most supermarkets and pharmacies. Anusol ointment can also be prescribed.
The prescription-only version of Anusol ointment is known as Anusol HC ointment. Anusol HC does not differ from Anusol ointment, which is available over the counter.
Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment aims to control the symptoms of piles by:
- Shrinking haemorrhoids
- Reliving discomfort
- Reduction of inflammation
What makes Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment my preferred recommendation is the addition of Hydrocortisone in the formulation. You can buy Hydrocortisone over the counter from a pharmacy.
Hydrocortisone is a drug classified as a steroid. Steroids are effective in reducing Itchiness, local inflammation, and swelling.
Other ingredients found in Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment and their role:
- Zinck oxide and Bismuth oxide: relieve Itchiness.
- Bismuth subgallate: relieve Itchiness, and have protective and some antiseptic properties.
- Balsam Peru: used as antiseptic and for healing properties.
Anusol Soothing Relief Ointment should be used for a maximum of 7 days.
Can you use Anusol Soothing Relief ointment in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Anusol Soothing Relief ointment should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Where can you buy Anusol Soothing Relief ointment?
Doctor Butler’s Ointment Uses Aloe Vera To Calm Itchy And Inflamed Skin
Sarah is a freelance writer with a focus on health and wellness. She has written for publications like Women’s Health, Healthline, and Parents. She taught creative writing for five years, and has a bachelor’s degree in English from Southern Connecticut State University.
Robert Burakoff, MD, MPH, is board-certified in gastroentrology. He is the vice chair for ambulatory services for the department of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York, where he is also a professor. He was the founding editor and co-editor in chief of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases.
Christina Oehler is a commerce editor for Verywell Health. She has a degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and has work published on sites like Health, Shape, and Brides.
We independently research, test, review, and recommend the bestproducts. Healthcare professionals review articles for medical accuracy. Learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Verywell Health / Jessica Juliao
Read Also: Does High Blood Pressure Cause Hemorrhoids
Best For External Hemorrhoids: Anusol Plus Hemorrhoidal Ointment
Walmart
-
Contains zinc for maximum skin healing and protection
-
Can be used longer than ointments with hydrocortisone
-
Prescription needed for a formulation with hydrocortisone
Getting your hands on a tube of Anusol Plus is worth every penny. Sergey V. Kantsevoy, MD, director of The Center for Therapeutic Endoscopy at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, says Anusol is the best treatment for external hemorrhoids and the one he recommends to his patients.
Zinc oxide is a powerful mineral often used to treat diaper rash on babies. Zinc goes a long way when it comes to healing and protecting sensitive, damaged skin. Anusol Plus also includes pramoxine, an analgesic, to numb the pain. If you want the version that contains hydrocortisone , your doctor can usually prescribe it.
Active Ingredients: Pramoxine Hydrochloride 1%, Zinc Sulfate 0.5% | Dose: Apply to affected area up to 5 times per day | Uses: Preventing and treating hemorrhoids
How Are Haemorrhoids/piles Diagnosed
Haemorrhoids/piles is a condition that is normally very easy for your doctor to diagnose – you should always seek a formal diagnosis on the first instance. It usually only involves a quick examination of the anal area. Sometimes a visual inspection is enough to identify external piles but there may also be the need to perform an internal examination, where a lubricated, gloved finger is inserted into the anus. This means your doctor will be able to feel for any abnormalities.
In a small number of cases it may be deemed necessary for further internal examination. This will be done using a proctoscope. A proctoscope is a thin tube that has a light attached to one end. When inserted into a patients anus it will allow the doctor to see the entire anal canal and make an accurate diagnosis.
After your initial diagnosis by your doctor it may be appropriate to self-treat your haemorrhoids as long as your symptoms have not changed or got worse since they were diagnosed. You should always check with your doctor if you have blood in your stools, especially if it is dark in colour or if your symptoms significantly change.
Also Check: Is It Normal For Hemorrhoids To Bleed
What Do Hemorrhoids Look Like
The appearance of hemorrhoids can vary, and sometimes they cannot be seen without an internal examination. Generally, thrombosed hemorrhoids protrude from the anus as a dark bluish lump. The color is due to a blood clot inside a blood vessel. Non-thrombosed piles, however, lack this color and look more like a rubbery lump at the anal verge.
Best For Pain Relief: Wiseways Herbals Witch Hazel Salve
According to Dr. Nazarian, witch hazel can be very calming and anti-inflammatory, which is perfect for treating painful hemorrhoids. It’s the main ingredient in this salve from WiseWays, where it works with other soothing ingredients such as yarrow, arnica, calendula, and chamomile to provide relief from itching, burning, and discomfort.
“I’m eight months pregnant and suffer from painful hemorrhoids,” says one reviewer, who calls the salve a must-have. “After weeks of pain and trying over the counter medicines, I saw the reviews for this and decided to try. And in just days, it reduced my hemorrhoids and pain.”
Recommended Reading: Why Do I Get Hemorrhoids Before My Period
Best For Itch Relief: Preparation H Soothing Relief Anti Itch Cream
Designed to deliver instant relief using a powerful dose of 1% hydrocortisonewhich is the highest strength available over the counterthis maximum-strength, fragrance-free cream significantly soothes and reduces itchiness to kickstart your healing. It works best used with the Preparation H Cooling Wipes mentioned above.
“I will say that this worked instantly, and provided an itch-free night which was great,” . “Grease-less formula which sinks into the skin quickly and goes to work fast.”
When To Seek Medical Advice
See your GP if you have persistent or severe symptoms of haemorrhoids. You should always get any rectal bleeding checked out, so your doctor can rule out more potentially serious causes.
The symptoms of haemorrhoids often clear up on their own or with simple treatments that can be bought from a pharmacy without a prescription . However, speak to your GP if your symptoms don’t get better or if you experience pain or bleeding.
Your GP can often diagnose haemorrhoids using a simple internal examination of your back passage, although they may need to refer you to a colorectal specialist for diagnosis and treatment.
Some people with haemorrhoids are reluctant to see their GP. However, theres no need to be embarrassed, because GPs are very used to diagnosing and treating haemorrhoids.
Read more about diagnosing haemorrhoids.
Read Also: What Do You Do To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids
Best Topical Treatments For Hemorrhoids
By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
The Strategist is designed to surface the most useful, expert recommendations for things to buy across the vast e-commerce landscape. Some of our latest conquests include the best womens jeans, rolling luggage, pillows for side sleepers, ultra-flattering pants, and bath towels. We update links when possible, but note that deals can expire and all prices are subject to change.
Every editorial product is independently selected. If you buy something through our links, New York may earn an affiliate commission.
Tucks Medicated Pads And Witch Hazel
Witch hazel, as sold in drug stores, is a distilled extract of the witch hazel plant. Witch hazel contains flavonoids such as quercetin, essential oils, and other plant phytochemicals. While natural witch hazel contains tannins, distilled witch hazel usually does not.
Witch hazel is a strong astringent and antioxidant, which makes it a popular product in acne remedies, aftershaves, and insect bite preparations. Witch hazel is also used for eczema, varicose veins, and hemorrhoids.
Tucks pads and similar products are simply sterile pads which have been soaked in witch hazel. The pads are folded and placed on the hemorrhoids. They provide temporary cooling and soothing relief and slowly heal irritated and inflamed anal tissues.
Also Check: What Can You Do For Hemorrhoids
Can I Pop A Hemorrhoid
Although a hemorrhoid may feel like a firm pimple, it is not recommended that you pop it to release blood and reduce its size. Its very easy to damage the delicate tissue of the anus. Given the area is exposed to high amounts of bacteria thanks to bowel movements, popping a hemorrhoid would cause an open wound extremely vulnerable to infection.
Germoloids Hemorrhoid Treatment Suppositories
Germoloids suppositories represent the same combination of active ingredients as Germoloid ointments. Germoloids suppositories for haemorrhoids can be used on their own or in combination with the ointment. Can you use Germoloids Hemorrhoid Treatment suppositories in pregnancy or breastfeeding?
The same advice applies to the use of Germoloids Hemorrhoid Treatment suppositories. Medical advice from a doctor should be sought before using Germoloids Hemorrhoid Treatment suppositories in pregnancy.
Don’t Miss: What Can Help Hemorrhoids Go Away
What Makes A Hemorrhoid Suppository
Active ingredients included in hemorrhoid suppositories can be natural herbs such as witch hazel or synthetic agents like phenylephrine HCl. Some formulations may combine both types of remedies.
To ensure that hemorrhoid suppositories stay solid before use and melt slowly, the active ingredients are formulated in a base which is the substance also serving as a vehicle for the active ingredients. Cocoa butter is a popular choice for the base in hemorrhoid suppositories.
Other inert excipients may be added to help with the release of the active ingredients in the anal canal.
Some of these added substances help lubricate the anal canal to allow the suppository to pass in with the least difficulty and also to soothe the smooth muscles of the anorectal region.
Hemorrhoids Suppositories are not meant for external hemorrhoids as these medications are developed in a way to work inside the body.
You can use topical creams and ointments for external hemorrhoids.
When inserted through the anal canal, the suppositories release the ingredients that work on the internal hemorrhoids to alleviate the irritation and burning sensations.
There are basically three different types of hemorrhoids suppositories available: Vasoconstrictors Analgesics and anesthetics and Laxatives.
Vasoconstrictors work by tightening the blood vessels and reducing the inflammation and pain.
Analgesics and anesthetics also reduce pain.
Laxatives dont work for hemorrhoids directly.
What Is The Recommended Treatment Of Hemorrhoids
Managing haemorrhoids includes lifestyle changes and possible use of laxatives to ensure that stools are soft and comfortable to pass and avoid straining.
Simple analgesics such as Paracetamol can be used to manage the pain. Codeine and Co-codamol should be avoided as these can cause constipation. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen should not be taken if bleeding is present .
Recommended Reading: What To Eat To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids
Choosing The Cream Thats Most Effective For You
Weve looked at why hemorrhoid creams work and given you some of the best creams and ointments to try for hemorrhoids.
But how do you choose a cream?
Think first about what your priorities are: is it pain relief, or would you like something to treat your ailment, making it go away?
Speaking to a doctor can be a great idea, or even just consult your pharmacist. Sometimes you may need to try a couple of different hemorrhoid treatments before finding one that works for you and a DIY home remedy often isnt the best treatment approach.
Either way, dont despair there is a cream or ointment that will work wonders for you. Only if nothing else helps you might have to consider surgery and changing your diet to improve bowel movement, to prevent and avoid this condition altogether.
Venapro
What Our Customers Are Saying As Seen On Amazon
Works well. This is way easier, and less gross than applying creams. I definitely recommend giving this a shot if other products haven’t worked, and the price is in your budget. I’ll definitely pick these up again should I have issues in the future!
– Verified Amazon buyer, 5-star review*
These were recommended by a physician. After using for first time I now keep them on hand in medicine cabinet.
– Verified Amazon buyer, 5-star review*
After trying everything under the sun, I am so happy to have found this product. It brought relief after months of agony!
– Verified Amazon buyer, 5-star review*
My second time to buy it, just for back up for my daily medicine box. It really works! Stop the pain and bleeding, without any embarrassment shows up. Truly recommended.
– Verified Amazon buyer, 5-star review*
Recommended Reading: Is It Possible To Get Rid Of External Hemorrhoids
How Long Do Hemorrhoid Suppositories Take To Work
Hemorrhoid suppositories provide almost immediate soothing relief from the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Once they enter the body, they begin to melt or dissolve, releasing the medication.
Most suppositories are used after each bowel movement to provide immediate hemorrhoid relief against further irritation.
They also soothe the burning, itching, pain, and discomfort that can come following a bowel movement when you have hemorrhoids.
A hemorrhoid suppository will not make your hemorrhoids go away. However, it’s widely expected that your condition will improve within 7 days. Maintain a regular schedule and you may record mind-blowing results in two weeks or so.
Best Pillow: Kieba Tailbone Cushion
Courtesy of Amazon
-
Some say the cushion is too stiff
Sometimes the best hemorrhoid treatment is the one that gets your bum off hard surfaces, which can increase the pressure placed on hemorrhoids and worsen symptoms. A tailbone cushion, specially contoured to support your hips and pelvis while keeping your perineum from coming into contact with anything firm, is a solid complement to whatever other treatments or remedies you might be employing.
This ergonomic pillow is also massively portable, featuring a non-slip bottom for safety, a removable, washable cover, and non-deflating foam. You can use it at home, at work, in the car, or anywhere your inflamed bottom may need a little extra comfort.
Active Ingredients: Foam and velour cover | Dose: N/A | Uses: Reduces pressure on the pelvis and lower body and relieves hemorrhoid pain
-
Reapplication may be needed
When itching is severe enough, it can be as bad as coping with pain. If hemorrhoid itch is becoming extremely uncomfortable, you likely need a formula with hydrocortisone to reduce inflammation and quiet that frustrating itch.
Active Ingredients: Hydrocortisone | Dose: Blot on affected area up to 4 times daily | Uses: For hemorrhoid and anal itching relief
Also Check: Laser Treatment For Internal Hemorrhoids
Top 10 Best Creams For Hemorrhoid To Buy In 2021
March 10, 2020 By Gnanika
The constant itching sensation and severe pain caused hemorrhoids can be very daunting to handle. Sometimes, the discomforts caused by it can interfere with our daily activities like walking, sitting and others.
If you are looking for a solution that provides immediate relief then hemorrhoid creams are perfect. These creams contain active ingredients like Hydrocortisone that aids in reducing the swelling, soothing the pain and controlling the itching sensation which are often accompanied with hemorrhoids.
When you start looking out for a good hemorrhoid cream in the market you may experience a wide variety of them. This can make you a bit confusing. So, we have assorted few factors like ingredients, consistency and others in our buying guide. Have a close look at them to make an informed choice.
Apart from that, we have also filtered the products present in the market based on several factors and listed them below for your convenience.
Warm Bath With Epsom Salt
Warm baths can help soothe irritation from hemorrhoids. Try using a sitz bath a small plastic tub that fits over a toilet seat so you can just immerse the affected area or take a bath in a tub, if you can.
Try a warm bath or a sitz bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement. Adding Epsom salt to the bath can provide further relief by reducing pain.
Read Also: What Can Make Hemorrhoids Worse
Equate Maximum Strength Hemorrhoid Relief
Equate is one of the most trusted company when it comes to providing products with promising results. This is a specially formulated cream which is extremely effective in targeting the pain, soreness and burning associated with hemorrhoids.
This cream works by shrinking the swollen hemorrhoid tissue and forming a protective layer over the irritated tissue.
The active ingredients used in this cream are glycerine, petroleum, phenylephrine HCl and pramoxine.
- Glycerin is helpful in easing bowel movements and treating constipation.
- It is known to reduce irritation and itching caused by external hemorrhoids.
- White petroleum soothes the burning sensation associated with anal fissures and other anarectal issues.
It also contains aloe vera which ensures to protect the skin from bacterial and fungal infections. This therapeutic cream will shrink the swollen hemorrhoids and supports healing.
This particular cream can be used for both internal and external hemorrhoids. You can apply this cream 5 times in a day for complete relief.
Pros:
They Often Get Better On Their Own After A Few Days
Are piles & haemorrhoids the same thing?
Haemorrhoids, also known as ‘piles’, are often described as the ‘varicose veins of the anal passage’. They’re lumps in the anus that contain swollen and enlarged blood vessels. This is a relatively common condition that’s generally associated with constipation.
The difference between internal & external haemorrhoids
Piles may occur internally or externally.
External haemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. They may cause discomfort because the overlying skin gets irritated. A blood clot can form inside the external haemorrhoids and can cause sudden and severe pain. The clot generally dissolves, leaving excess skin that may become irritated and itchy.
Internal haemorrhoids occur in the lower rectum. They’re often painless, even when bleeding. Internal haemorrhoids can sometimes prolapse, or push out of the anus during a bowel movement. Wipe gently and as few times as possible after you move your bowels to avoid irritating the skin more.
The symptoms of haemorrhoids
Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet after passing a stool
Itchiness or discomfort around the anus
A discharge of mucus after a bowel movement
Piles can be embarrassing and some people are hesitant to talk to their pharmacist or GP about them. Theres no need to be self-conscious, however, as medical professionals are accustomed to treating people with this condition.
What causes haemorrhoids?
Being pregnant
Ageing
Frequent coughing
Don’t Miss: How To Get Rid Of Hemorrhoids Quickly