What Is The Best Medication For Hemorrhoids

Increasing Your Fibre Intake

You can gradually increase the amount of fibre in your diet by eating foods including:

• fresh fruit and vegetables
• nuts and seeds
• pulses

Commercial fibre supplements are also available and can be useful if you think you are not getting enough of the above foods in your diet.

Make sure you increase your fibre gradually so your digestive system has time to adapt.

Its also important to increase your fluid intake at the same time. This is because fibre in the stools acts like a sponge, absorbing moisture from the body. Try to drink lots of water. Cutting down on sugary drinks will also help you to cut down on calories that cause weight gain.

Hemorrhoids: Diagnosis And Treatment Options

TIMOTHY MOTT, MD, Naval Hospital Pensacola, Pensacola, Florida

KELLY LATIMER, MD, MPH, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella, Catania, Italy

CHAD EDWARDS, MD, Hamilton Medical Center, Dalton, Georgia

Am Fam Physician.;2018;Feb;1;97:172-179.

;Patient information: A handout on hemorrhoids is available.

• References

Hemorrhoids develop when the venous drainage of the anus is altered, causing the venous plexus and connecting tissue to dilate, creating an outgrowth of anal mucosa from the rectal wall. However, the exact pathophysiology is unknown. Hemorrhoids occur above or below the dentate line where the proximal columnar transitions to the distal squamous epithelium . The anus is approximately 4 cm long in adults, with the dentate line located roughly at the midpoint.2 Hemorrhoids developing above the dentate line are internal. They are painless because they are viscerally innervated. External hemorrhoids develop below the dentate line and can become painful when swollen. The extent of prolapse of internal hemorrhoids can be graded on a scale from I to IV, which guides effective treatment . This grading system is incomplete, however, because it focuses exclusively on the extent of prolapse and does not consider other clinical factors, such as size and number of hemorrhoids, amount of pain and bleeding, and patient comorbidities and preferences.3

SORT: KEY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Increasing fiber intake is an effective first-line, non-surgical treatment for hemorrhoids.

FIGURE 1.

How Long Do Hemorrhoids Take To Heal

For many people, hemorrhoids last and last. Ongoing pain is especially common for people over age 50. For many people, hemorrhoidal pain returns years after treatment, and for many others the condition comes and goes, becoming more common over time.

Do Hemorrhoids Ever Go Away on Their Own?

Sometimes they do. Smaller hemorrhoids are apt to go away in just a few days. It’s a good idea during this time to avoid further irritating your rectal area by keeping the area as clean as you can.

How Can You Make Hemorrhoids Go Away?

Tougher cases of hemorrhoids may not go away on their own. After trying home remedies and over-the-counter options without success, you will need to talk to your doctor about other treatment options.

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Best For Instant Relief: Thena Natural Wellness Organic Sitz Bath Soak

Another Epsom salt-enriched pick, this organic bath soak has the finest grain Epsom and Dead Sea salts that dissolve quickly to offer immediate relief, shrinking hemorrhoids, softening damaged skin, and neutralizing odor. The bath soak also uses magnesium oil to lubricate the perineum to repair damaged tissue to prevent infection. On average, Amazon shoppers give this product a respectable 4.6 stars.

I would recommend this for postpartum care or hemorrhoid care, one reviewer says. It was much better , and all that is needed It helped heal my episiotomy complications within a week.

Witch Hazel For Hemorrhoids Treatment

Witch hazel is often promoted as an effective topical treatment for hemorrhoids by natural health advocates. In fact, it is only effective for relieving some of the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids and not effective in treating the hemorrhoid itself.

According to some, ;witch hazel is supposed to be applied several times a day until the hemorrhoid shrinks. Lemon juice, tea tree oil, and aloe vera are some other natural topical treatments commonly recommended. The reality is that some of these natural topical treatments may be effective in temporarily relieving the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids but they will not go far in solving the problem itself.

Also Check: How To Remove Hemorrhoids At Home

Best Bath Soak: Better Bath Better Body Sitz Bath Soak

Sprinkle this soothing Epsom salt soak right into your sitz bath. Pure juniper essential oil and pure niaouli essential oil combine with Epsom salt, which is one of Dr. Nazarians favorite ingredients for hemorrhoid relief, to reduce pain, cleanse, and support blood vessel function, as well as to reduce swelling. This all-star combination is whats earned this bath soak its 4.7-star rating on Amazon.

I have very sensitive skin especially in the sitz bath department, even psoriasis, a reviewer shares. I am reluctant to use any product that has a fragrance. But I needed something desperately for hemorrhoids, so I ordered this and a seat for the toilet. I have had zero irritation from it and it is helping my problem.

What Should I Eat If I Have Hemorrhoids Diet

Individuals with hemorrhoids should soften their stools by increasing the fiber in their diets.

Fiber is found in numerous foods, including

• fresh and dried fruits,
• whole grains, and
• cereals.

In general, 20 to 30 grams of fiber per day is recommended, whereas the average American diet contains less than 15 grams of fiber. Fiber supplements, like psyllium, methylcellulose, and calcium polycarbophil, also may be used to increase the intake of fiber.

Stool softeners and increased drinking of liquids also may be recommended, as well as bulk-forming laxatives. Nevertheless, the benefits of fiber, liquids, and stool softeners have not been well-tested with respect to hemorrhoidal control in scientific studies.

Recommended Reading: How To Get Rid Of Large Hemorrhoids

Effectiveness Of The Laser Treatment

Laser treatment has been most thoroughly studied in the treatment of level two and level three hemorrhoids.

In one study, 60 percent of patients had made a full recovery within 28 days of the procedure. The patients reported fairly low pain levels after the treatment, particularly when compared to a control group that underwent traditional excision.

Another study compared laser treatment to banding procedures. Both approaches took about the same amount of time to perform. However, the patients who had laser treatment reported slightly lower levels of pain.

The most significant finding for those suffering from unpleasant hemorrhoids was that, after six months, 90 percent of the patients who were treated with a laser were symptom-free.

If you undergo laser coagulation, your recovery time should be minimal, and you may be able to return to work just a few days after the procedure. You can expect the hemorrhoidal tissue to fall off about a week or week and a half after the treatment.

If you have multiple hemorrhoids, a second one can be treated about two weeks after the first procedure.

Hemorrhoid Banding As A Definitive Solution For Hemorrhoids

While natural home remedies for hemorrhoids can provide temporary relief from symptoms, they are not a permanent fix. For long-term hemorrhoid relief, consider a treatment like hemorrhoid banding. Also known as rubber band ligation, hemorrhoid banding is a long-lasting technique for alleviating discomfort caused by hemorrhoids.

Specifically, the CRH ORegan System is the leading hemorrhoid banding treatment available. During the CRH ORegan System procedure, a small band is wrapped around the base of the hemorrhoid to restrict the blood flow to the hemorrhoidal mass. After a few days without a blood supply, the hemorrhoid shrinks and eventually falls off, along with the band. Typically, the hemorrhoid and band fall off during a regular bowel movement without the patient even noticing.

Talk to a doctor for more information on the right treatment and relief options for you. To get rid of your hemorrhoids once and for all, find a physician that offers the pain-free CRH ORegan banding procedure and get on the path toward the hemorrhoid-free life you deserve.

Heal Your Hemorrhoids

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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. Its 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.

Im 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.

Severe Hemorrhoids Vs Mild Hemorrhoids: Stages

Many physicians use a grading system to categorize hemorrhoids along four stages:

• First-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that bleed, but do not prolapse. These are slightly enlarged hemorrhoids, but they do not protrude outside the anus.
• Second-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and retract on their own . These may come out of the anus during certain activities like passing stool, and then return back inside the body.
• Third-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and must be pushed back in by a finger.
• Fourth-degree hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids that prolapse and cannot be pushed back in the anal canal. Fourth-degree hemorrhoids also include hemorrhoids that are thrombosed or that pull much of the lining of the rectum through the anus.

Read Also: How To Care For Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Myths And Facts About Home Remedies For Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are common, but they can be an embarrassing health problem. The good news is, you can treat your hemorrhoids at home. However, not all home remedies for hemorrhoids work as well as some internet sites may claim.

Dr. Betsy Clemens, our board-certified family physician at Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in St. Louis, Missouri, specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of hemorrhoids and wants to share some of the myths and facts about home remedies so you can get the relief you need without making things worse.;;

Best Spray: Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray

Boasting witch hazel, lavender, cucumber, and peppermint oil, a few spritzes of this spray can soothe, cleanse, and decrease inflammation in areas where hemorrhoids develop. Its nozzle is designed to work upside-down for a touch-free application, delivering instant soothing in hard-to-reach areas. For extra relief, store the bottle in the fridge for a cooling sensation when you use it.

Now I am currently 19 days postpartum, I delivered an eight-pound baby boy via the help of a forcep delivery, . I had several tears that were second-degree tears, including a brutal episiotomy and severe hemorrhoids More than two weeks postpartum I’m back on my feet and still using this spray which is in fact very cooling and very refreshing. I still have a long way to go in recovering down there, but this product has helped so far.

Also Check: What To Eat When Hemorrhoids Flare Up

Tubes*10g Mayinglong Musk Hemorrhoid Cream

We have yet another Chinese brand of ointments called Mayinglong that also offers ointments and creams for hemorrhoids. It provides a multi-tube pack cream that is quite effective against the issues caused by piles or hemorrhoids.

This Mayinglong cream for hemorrhoid is present in the 3rd position in this article as it offers multiple cream tubes to the user. As you would expect, this cream is made for hemorrhoids and piles for treating symptoms and issues caused due to it. You get a total of 40 grams in this tube that allows you to apply this cream for a long time without any problems.

You can simply apply this cream on the affected area every day to get rid of all the issues. Once you have applied this cream, it helps you to fix heat-clearing, blood circulation detumescence, stopping bleeding, and various other issues caused due to hemorrhoids. This cream is made using artificial musk, artificial bezoar, pearl, and other things that make this cream quite effective.

Pros:

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.

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Symptoms Of Prolapsed Internal Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids prolapse when their blood vessels swell and extend from their location in the rectum through the anus. In the anal canal, the hemorrhoid is exposed to the trauma of passing stool, particularly hard stools associated with constipation. The trauma can cause bleeding and sometimes pain when stool passes.

The presence of

• inflammation, and
• constant moisture

can lead to anal itchiness , and occasionally the constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement. The prolapsing hemorrhoid usually returns into the anal canal or rectum on its own or can be pushed back inside with a finger, but falls out again with the next bowel movement.

Dont Make Things Worse

Bump up the fiber. It softens your stools and makes them move through your body more easily. Youll find it in beans, whole-grain breads and cereals, and fresh fruits and veggies. You may also want to try a supplement if you cant get enough from foods. Add fiber slowly to help avoid gas and bloating.

Drink lots of fluids. Stay well hydrated to keep stools soft so theyre easier to pass. Water is the best choice. Drink plenty throughout the day. Prune juice is a natural laxative and can help you go.

Exercise regularly. Even brisk walking 20-30 minutes every day can help keep you from getting stopped up.

Breathe! Keep the air moving in and out when youre working hard. Its common to hold your breath as youre pushing, pulling, or making an effort and that can lead to hemorrhoid pain and bleeding.

Use a pillow. Sit on a cushion instead of a hard surface. It will ease swelling for any hemorrhoids you have. It may also help prevent new ones from forming.

Take breaks. If you must sit for a long time, get up every hour and move around for at least 5 minutes.

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What Is The Best Hemorrhoid Medication

With so many medications available to treat hemorrhoids, you may be wondering which option is the best. Like most prescriptions, that can only be determined by your healthcare provider on a case by case basis. The best option will depend on your medical history, the severity of your hemorrhoids, and if youre taking any other medications that may negatively interact with hemorrhoid medication.

To make things easier to understand, weve broken down some of the different prescription medications available to treat hemorrhoids:

Dosage is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and weight. Other possible side effects exist. This is not a complete list.

Again, the best option available for you will be determined by having an open conversation with your healthcare providers. Theyll take all the variables into account, such as your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and if youre taking any other medications that may interact with treatment.

Permanent Hemorrhoid Treatment Options

Do you really need to treat your hemorrhoids? If your symptoms have persisted or come back over a period of time, the answer is usually yes.

Home remedies for hemorrhoids may provide hemorrhoid relief for a period of time, but if symptoms come back or never completely go away, you may require help from a medical professional to get rid of your hemorrhoids for good.

Hemorrhoidectomy

Hemorrhoidectomy is a form of surgery usually performed by a general surgeon or colorectal surgeon. Surgical hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective treatment for hemorrhoids. However, because it also has the highest complication rate and results in significant pain and downtime, it is often a last resort for those suffering from hemorrhoids.

Physicians typically reserve hemorrhoid surgery for more advanced cases and will recommend less invasive therapies and/or lifestyle changes, like adding a fibre supplement to your diet, before resorting to hemorrhoid surgery.

Non-Invasive Permanent Treatment

While there are several forms of non-invasive treatment that can provide temporary hemorrhoid relief, very few are permanent. After hemorrhoid surgery, the rubber band ligation technique has the lowest recurrence rate, meaning hemorrhoids are the least likely to return.

Heal Your Hemorrhoids

Also Check: How To Shrink Internal Hemorrhoids

Side Effects Of Hemorrhoid Cream

Though it is a bit rare, some people may experience side effects. If you are observing any symptoms mentioned below, then consult a doctor as soon as possible as it is an indication of bad side effect.

• Rashes, hives, swelling, blisters, peeling skin , itching, tightness in throat or chest, wheezing, trouble in breathing or swallowing, unusual hoarseness, swelling in any part of the body.
• Bleeding in rectum.
• Intense pain in the rectum.

What Is The Best Otc Hemorrhoid Treatment

Most hemorrhoid medicines are prescriptions that contain a range of active substances to give short-term comfort of hemorrhoids symptoms. These are applied openly to the rectal and anal area and come in various forms, including gels, creams, pads, and suppositories. Hemorrhoid preparations might include constricting medications, protectants, numbing medications, hydrocortisone, combination products, and witch hazel.

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Cream Gel Ointment Or Suppository Which One To Choose

Before purchasing a hemorrhoid cream, it is very helpful to understand the difference between several choices like ointment, gel, cream or suppository. Though they are lumped into same group, but they do have certain differences too.

The most important difference between the cream and gels is creams are oil based and gels are water based. Usually, gel based solutions dont leave a heavy film as they are clear in texture. But creams are different as they leave a thin film application behind. Both creams and gels are easily absorbed by the body. So, they work better for people who have oily skin.

When it comes to ointment, they are thick in color and greasy in texture. When it is applied on the skin, it leaves a layer of oil on the skins surface. These products are best for people with dry skin as the oil present in it traps the moisture in the skin. Either it is water or oil based, these ingredients are very helpful in relieving itching, soreness, burning sensation and swelling.

Important Note: For people who have dry skin, it is better to use ointments. For people who have oily skin, it is better to use creams.

Apart from the texture, another important thing to consider is the type of hemorrhoids internal or external. Creams, gels or ointments are helpful for treating external hemorrhoids while suppositories are helpful for treating internal hemorrhoids.