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March 6, 2025What is the Best Hemorrhoid Over-the-Counter Treatment?
The common painful situation, hemorrhoids plague millions around the world. Veins inside or outside of the rectal area become inflamed, resulting in pain and itchiness; they may also cause bleeding. However, when not serious enough, many look to over-the-counter remedies to cure them. This article talks about the best over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs. For further guidance, visit the specialists at Gastroenterology of New York.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, or piles as most individuals call them, refer to inflamed or swollen veins located inside the lower rectum or anus. They can further be categorized into the following:
Internal Hemorrhoids: They are located inside the rectum and usually cause painless bleeding.
External Hemorrhoids: They are located under the skin around the anus and usually cause pain and discomfort.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Common symptoms include:
- Rectal bleeding when passing stools
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Pain or ache
- Swelling or lumps in the anal region
- Discharge of stools
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Some of the common causes of hemorrhoids are:
- Long-term constipation or diarrhea
- Straining at stool
- Long periods of sitting, especially while on the toilet
- Pregnancy and delivery
- Obesity
- Poor diet with minimal fiber intake
Top Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Treatments
Over-the-counter treatments are designed to alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as pain, inflammation, and irritation. Some of the most effective ones include:
Hemorrhoid Creams and Ointments
Creams and ointments are good for convenience and quick relief. Many products have active ingredients that help in the reduction of inflammation and healing of the skin.
Recommended Products
- Preparation H: Available in hydrocortisone versions for itch relief and phenylephrine versions for swelling.
- Anusol-HC: Hydrocortisone helps reduce the inflammation and irritation.
How to Use
- Apply after cleaning the area to be treated.
- Cream is applied according to the direction of the pack, generally four times a day
Hemorrhoid Suppositories
Suppositories are ideal for internal hemorrhoids, as they deliver medication directly to the source.
Recommended Products:
- Preparation H Suppositories: They help reduce internal swelling and discomfort.
- Tucks Internal Soothers: Provide internal relief for hemorrhoids.
How to Use:
- Insert the suppository into the rectum gently as directed on the packaging.
Witch Hazel Pads
Witch hazel is an astringent that has been used for ages to reduce swelling and redness.
Recommended Products:
- Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads: Provides external hemorrhoids with cooling relief and soothes inflamed skin.
- Preparation H Soothing Wipes: Combine the properties of witch hazel with aloe vera for enhanced comfort.
How to Use:
- Wipe the area gently with the pad after each bowel movement or as needed.
Pain-Relieving Sprays
Sometimes, fast relief is just what's needed and mess-free relief sprays are ideal.
Recommended Products:
- Preparation H Rapid Relief Spray: Instant relief from burning and itching.
How to Use:
- Spray directly on the affected area from a short distance, not overapplying.
Oral Pain Relievers
Not hemorrhoid-specific, but oral medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help with pain and inflammation.
Recommended Options:
- Tylenol: Good for mild to moderate pain relief.
- Advil: Relieves inflammation and discomfort.
Lifestyle adjustments are the best bet with OTC treatments, since they address the root cause of hemorrhoids. The following are some home remedies for preventing recurrence:
High Fiber Diet
- Incorporate fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes for stool softening and minimizing the effort of straining.
- Gradually Increase Fiber Intake to 25-30 grams/day
Stay Hydrated
- Take in at least 8-10 glasses of water a day.
Avoid Prolonged Sitting
- Stand up and sit down as often as possible, especially from the toilet to avoid straining on rectal veins.
Hygiene
- The anal area must always be kept clean and dry to avoid irritation and infection.
Sitz Bath
- Submerge the affected area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day. This will reduce the pain and swelling.
There are still cases where certain OTC medicines are not entirely sufficient. In order to be most appreciated by a doctor, if the given symptoms are non-responsive to its treatment, are continuing to get worse, severe pain accompanies heavy bleeding, or signs of an infection are seen such as fever and purulence, it's better for one to see a specialist.
The Expertise of Gastroenterology of New York
At Gastroenterology of New York, we will give you a comprehensive treatment program for your hemorrhoids or any other type of gastrointestinal concern. We guide you in symptom management and subsequent treatments when appropriate.
Conclusion
The best over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatment is often found based on individual symptoms and personal preferences. Creams and suppositories, soothing pads and sprays, and many more are available. These can be combined with lifestyle changes that target the causes and avoid further episodes. To receive proper care and consultation, turn to Gastroenterology of New York.Make that first step towards relief and improved well-being today.
