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By Hemorrhoid.com | July 13, 2024
Did you know half of adults face hemorrhoids by age 501? This issue affects millions, leading them to seek relief. Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes bleeding. Pregnancy, chronic constipation, and straining during bowel movements often cause them1.
Many look to hemorrhoid creams for quick relief. Over-the-counter options are popular, offering relief without a prescription. Noteworthy creams include Preparation H Rapid Relief priced at $29 on Amazon1, Doctor Butler’s Ointment at $351, and Boiron HemCalm for $111. These products are known for their effectiveness and ease of access1. Furthermore, experts like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence suggest creams as the go-to option for treating early-stage hemorrhoids2.
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, happen when there’s too much pressure in the rectum and anus. This pressure can come from several sources like pregnancy, trying too hard during bowel movements, and long-term constipation. By the time they reach midlife, half of all adults have felt the pain and discomfort these swollen veins cause. It’s crucial to know why hemorrhoids happen and to spot their symptoms early to manage them well.
Many things lead to hemorrhoids forming. Often, they start because of chronic constipation, since straining too much puts extra pressure on the veins in your rectum. Also, sitting for a long time can make it worse, and being overweight increases the risk3. During pregnancy, up to 35% of people get hemorrhoids because of the extra pressure inside their belly3. To avoid constipation and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids, the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest eating 14 grams of fiber for every 1,000 calories you consume4.
What hemorrhoids feel like can be different for everyone. The most common symptoms are feeling uncomfortable, itching, or bleeding when you go to the bathroom. If hemorrhoids pop out and the symptoms get bad or don’t go away, you might need quick care. There are treatments you can buy without a prescription that help with small problems. Creams with ingredients like witch hazel, pramoxine, and lidocaine can soothe and heal hemorrhoids on the outside. If you’re still having trouble or notice a lot of bleeding, it’s time to see a doctor. They can check for other problems and talk about more ways to help. Even with the right treatment, hemorrhoids can come back, but the chances are lower if you’ve had surgery3.
Finding the right cream for hemorrhoid relief is crucial. Below are some top picks that have gotten great reviews for being effective.
Revivol-XR may not be well-known but is praised in health circles. It works fast to ease the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Even though we don’t have specific stats, it’s just as good as other leading creams in the market.
Motherlove Rhoid Balm is made with organic stuff. It’s a natural balm that really helps with the pain5. People find relief within a day of using it. It’s similar to TUCKIS Medicated Cooling Pads for quick and easy comfort5.
Preparation H Rapid Relief Cream is famous for its quick help. It mixes lidocaine and phenylephrine HCL for fast relief. You can buy it for about $19 to $221. Use it up to four times daily6. It’s very versatile among hemorrhoid creams.
Boiron HemCalm Ointment is great if you prefer homeopathic treatments. It has horse chestnut and witch hazel to reduce swelling and pain. It costs between $8 and $111, making it affordable without losing quality. Witch hazel helps even more in different forms like pads6.
Here’s a quick comparison of the top over-the-counter creams:
| Product | Key Ingredients | Price Range | Usage Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|
| Motherlove Rhoid Balm | Organic Ingredients | $12 | As needed |
| Preparation H Rapid Relief Cream | Lidocaine, Phenylephrine HCL | $19-$22 | Up to 4 times/day |
| Boiron HemCalm Ointment | Horse Chestnut, Witch Hazel | $8-$11 | As needed |
| Revivol-XR | Not Specified | Not Specified | Not Specified |
The success of hemorrhoid creams depends on what’s in them. Ingredients can shrink swollen veins and soothe pain. An important one is phenylephrine hydrochloride because it narrows blood vessels. For example, a 57g tube of cream contains 0.1425g of it7
Another key ingredient is mineral oil, which is 7.98g in a 57g tube. It helps with anal discomfort by making the area smoother7. Petrolatum, at 40.983g per tube, creates a protective layer on the skin7. Together, these ingredients are very effective for treating anal discomfort.
Often, creams will have hydrocortisone, a strong steroid, to fight itching and swelling8. But, using it too much can cause other skin problems8. After safety issues, the U.S. stopped using LYCD in these creams. Now, phenylephrine and hydrocortisone are safer, approved options8.
Witch hazel, from the Hamamelis virginiana plant, helps relieve itching and burning9. Menthol, which comes from peppermint oil, cools and eases skin discomfort9. Earth’s Care Hemorrhoid Relief Cream uses Menthol and Witch Hazel. This makes it a strong, natural choice9.
When picking a hemorrhoid cream, look at the ingredients. Earth’s Care includes natural options like calendula and aloe vera. It doesn’t have harmful chemicals9. Knowing about these ingredients helps you choose the best treatment for your needs.
To get the best relief from hemorrhoid symptoms, use anti-inflammatory ointments and rectal care products correctly. Following the right application methods can make these treatments work better.
Applying hemorrhoid cream correctly is key to getting its full benefits. Over-the-counter creams and ointments help ease hemorrhoid symptoms10. You should use the cream before and after you go to the bathroom and at bedtime, not more than three times a day10. First, clean the area gently, dry it, and then put a thin layer of cream on with clean fingers or an applicator10. For step-by-step instructions, check out this guide on applying hemorrhoid cream.
Use the ointment two or three times daily to ease pain and itching from hemorrhoids or minor skin issues11. It’s important to stick to these guidelines to prevent side effects like itching, paler skin, and redness12. Missed a dose? Apply it when you remember, unless it’s almost time for the next one11. Store the ointment at room temperature in a closed container, away from heat, moisture, and light11.
Using anti-inflammatory ointments together with healthy lifestyle choices can greatly improve your handling of hemorrhoid symptoms. Tips from the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK) can lower hemorrhoid pain12. A high-fiber diet suggested by the University of California San Francisco promotes smooth bowel movements and lessens hemorrhoid problems12. Drinking more water is also essential for making the fiber more effective12. For more advice on easing hemorrhoid pain fast, read this in-depth article.
When you need to pick a hemorrhoid cream, it’s important to look at a few things. You should check the ingredients, how much it costs, and how you apply it. These factors affect how well the cream works and how easy it is to use.
First, focus on what’s in the cream. Witch hazel is a well-liked natural treatment. It helps ease itchiness and discomfort13. Lidocaine can give short-term ease from pain and burning13. Products like Preparation H®, Recticare, and creams with are known to work well for hemorrhoids14. The Curist Numbing Relief with 5% lidocaine is a good choice that’s less pricey than others14. Also, look for pramoxine, phenylephrine HCI, and hydrocortisone for symptom relief13.
Next, think about the price. Some creams, like the one from Walgreens, are affordable at $7.99 for 0.9 oz15. Others, like Preparation H Rapid Relief, can cost $33.99 for 1 oz15. It’s crucial to find a good balance between what you pay and how well the product works.
How you apply the cream also matters. Suppositories are best for night use13. Daytime options include ointments and gels with various ingredient strengths13. Look for something easy to apply for quick relief.
User feedback and expert advice can point you to the right cream. Many like RectiCare for its fast action, working in 30-60 minutes and lasting up to 3 hours14. Products with glycerin, aloe, and vitamin E are often recommended for soothing the skin13. Talking to healthcare providers and looking at user reviews is very helpful.
Remember that combining creams with changes in your lifestyle can boost relief. This approach offers both immediate comfort and long-term solutions.
| Product | Key Ingredient | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Walgreens Hemorrhoidal Pain Relief Cream | Lidocaine | $7.99 (0.9 oz)15 |
| Preparation H Rapid Relief | Lidocaine | $33.99 (1 oz)15 |
| Curist Lidocaine Hemorrhoid Relief | 5% Lidocaine | – |
| RectiCare Advanced Hemorrhoidal Cream | Lidocaine | $36.99 (30 g)15 |
| Nikzon Hemorrhoidal Cream | Vasoconstrictor & Anesthetic | $9.99 (0.9 oz)15 |
Effective creams like Revivol-XR can really help those with painful hemorrhoid symptoms. Understanding what causes these issues lets you seek the right treatment. Studies show that both herbal and traditional creams can lessen pain and symptoms16.
When you’re picking a hemorrhoid cream, look at the ingredients, cost, and what other users say. Compounds like phenylephrine shrink blood vessels, and witch hazel tightens pores. That makes creams like Motherlove Rhoid Balm and Preparation H Rapid Relief good options17. Sometimes, if hemorrhoids get really bad, you might need more than cream. Procedures like rubber band ligation or surgery could be the answer16. It’s worth noting that about 4.4% of people deal with hemorrhoids, showing the need for good treatment plans18.
Using hemorrhoid creams the right way and changing some of your habits can make a big difference. Sticking to what doctors recommend is key to get better17. With the right over-the-counter products and smart choices, feeling better is likely. Check out websites like Hemorrhoid.com for advice on choosing the best products to improve your life.
Hemorrhoids happen when there’s too much pressure on the rectum and anus. This pressure can come from chronic constipation, being pregnant, straining during bowel movements, or not moving enough.
Symptoms include pain, discomfort, itching, and swelling around the anus or rectum. You might also see some bleeding. If these symptoms keep up, it’s a good idea to see a healthcare provider.
Some good creams you can find without a prescription are Motherlove Rhoid Balm, Preparation H Rapid Relief Cream, and Boiron HemCalm Ointment. These are known for ingredients that help ease pain, lower swelling, and soothe the area.
First, make sure the area is clean. Then, put a little cream on it, following the directions on the package. Generally, you might need to do this a few times a day. Just be sure to use it as suggested to stay safe.
Yes, for a more natural approach, you can try witch hazel and horse chestnut, which are in products like Boiron HemCalm Ointment. Also, drinking more water and eating more fiber can help manage the symptoms.
Look for ingredients like phenylephrine HCl, lidocaine, witch hazel, pramoxine hydrochloride, zinc oxide, and horse chestnut. They’re great for easing inflammation, numbing pain, and offering relief.
