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By Hemorrhoid.com | July 31, 2024
Did you know around 10% of adults1 have hemorrhoids? This condition can cause discomfort, leading many to seek quick relief. Luckily, numerous effective over-the-counter options are available. They address symptoms like pain, itching, and swelling. Most of the time, these cases don’t need a doctor’s care unless there’s intense pain or bleeding1. Among the best treatments are Revivol-XR and ANUSOL Plus Hemorrhoidal Ointment. Experts especially recommend ANUSOL for treating external hemorrhoids1.
Knowing the right ingredients is key. For instant pain relief, look for meds with pramoxine or lidocaine. Hydrocortisone is great for lessening swelling and itchiness. Products like Motherlove Postpartum Rhoid Balm with witch hazel soothe and reduce inflammation fast. Some even see results in a day1. These options are crucial for those needing quick relief.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the rectum and anus. They stem from increased pressure in the pelvic and rectal areas. Factors like lifestyle, genetics, and changes in the body play a role.
Hemorrhoids are inflamed blood vessels in the lower rectum and anus. They can be inside or outside the body. Symptoms vary from mild discomfort to severe pain. Internal ones usually don’t hurt but might bleed. External ones can be quite painful.
About 1 in 20 Americans have hemorrhoids, and over half of people over 50 experience them2. Pregnancy can increase the risk because of extra pressure and constipation2. Factors like straining during bowel movements, sitting for too long, not being active, being overweight, and eating a diet low in fiber also contribute2. Up to 35% of pregnant individuals might get them3.
Symptoms include pain, itching, swelling, and bleeding when you use the bathroom. Up to 50% of hemorrhoid cases might come back within five years, even with treatment3. To diagnose them, a physical exam is necessary. For mild symptoms, over-the-counter creams can offer relief2. If they’re severe, it’s important to see a doctor. They might suggest surgery for big or stubborn hemorrhoids4.
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid medicines have different active ingredients to help with symptoms. Knowing these key parts can help you find the best treatment. It makes choosing the right medication for your needs easier.
Witch hazel reduces swelling and eases itching with its astringent qualities. It’s in many products for external hemorrhoids5. A study in 2020 showed witch hazel with herbs lessens pain, itching, and swelling6.
Hydrocortisone is a strong anti-inflammatory. It lessens swelling and pain. Many OTC hemorrhoid products include it, but it’s meant for short-term use. Always follow the directions, typically not more than one week, unless a doctor says otherwise.
| Product | Price |
|---|---|
| Motherlove Rhoid Balm | $13 |
| Preparation H Rapid Relief Hemorrhoid Cream with Lidocaine | $29 |
| Doctor Butler’s Hemorrhoid & Fissure Ointment | $35 |
| Boiron HemCalm Ointment | $11 |
| Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Cooling Gel | $8 |
| Earth Mama Herbal Perineal Spray | $14 |
| Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads | $13 |
| Preparation H Flushable Wipes | $12 |
| Fleet Laxative Glycerin Suppositories | $10 |
| Anusol Suppositories | $15 |
Finding the right over-the-counter hemorrhoid medication means looking at different types. It depends on how severe your hemorrhoids are and where they are located. Also, think about what feels most comfortable for you.
There are many forms of hemorrhoid treatments like ointments, creams, suppositories, and medicated wipes. These treatments may contain ingredients such as witch hazel, hydrocortisone, phenylephrine, and lidocaine. They help ease pain, itching, and swelling8
Apply topical ointments and creams up to four times daily for relief. Insert suppositories rectally to ease discomfort and swelling from inside9. For external relief, use wipes with ingredients like witch hazel. They’re easy to use and soothing9.
Choose your hemorrhoid medication based on your symptoms. For itching and pain, try creams with lidocaine. Always check if the ingredients fit your needs and read user reviews for their effectiveness. Remember, only use hydrocortisone products for a short time unless a doctor says otherwise9.
Consider how easy a product is to apply. If you prefer, pick ointments or suppositories. Also, including fiber supplements or stool softeners in your treatment can help. They make bowel movements easier and reduce hemorrhoid pain9.
Experts suggest starting with non-prescription hemorrhoid remedies that are clinically proven. They often recommend products with hydrocortisone, witch hazel pads, and lidocaine creams for pain relief. Also, talk to healthcare professionals for advice tailored to your symptoms and history8.
For lasting relief in chronic or severe cases, consider non-surgical options like rubber band ligation or infrared photocoagulation. These help most people feel better10. For large internal hemorrhoids, surgery might be necessary10.
Many over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications are known for their effectiveness. They help ease symptoms like itching, pain, and swelling. Let’s take a closer look at some top choices available now.
ANUSOL Plus Hemorrhoidal Ointment is great for treating external hemorrhoids. It has zinc sulfate and pramoxine hydrochloride to soothe itching, inflammation, and discomfort. Users often feel better within a week of regular use11. This ointment is also long-lasting, making it stand out from others.
Preparation H Soothing Relief Anti Itch Cream contains hydrocortisone to reduce pain and itching11. It’s especially good for severe itch and inflammation. The brand is well-established, showing its popularity with strong sales12. Priced at $10.99, its effectiveness is backed by 213 positive reviews13.
Motherlove Postpartum Rhoid Balm meets the unique needs of postpartum care but works for others too. It includes witch hazel and herbs to relieve burning and itching11. Its herbal approach makes it a gentle choice for hemorrhoid relief. This sets it apart, drawing in people who prefer natural remedies.
Whether you pick ANUSOL Plus, Preparation H, or Motherlove, each offers distinct advantages. For in-depth information and reviews, check out Hemorrhoid.com. It offers guides to help pick the right treatment. The market, including products like Revivol-XR, continues to grow with solutions that really work.
| Product | Key Ingredients | Relief Duration | Cost | Reviews |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ANUSOL Plus Hemorrhoidal Ointment | Zinc Sulfate, Pramoxine Hydrochloride | Up to 1 Week11 | $10.99* | High |
| Preparation H Soothing Relief Anti Itch Cream | Hydrocortisone | 1-2 Weeks11 | $10.99 | 213 Reviews13 |
| Motherlove Postpartum Rhoid Balm | Witch Hazel, Herbal Ingredients | 1 Week11 | $12.49 | High |
Managing hemorrhoids goes beyond just using medicine. It includes changes to your lifestyle for effective relief. Making sure you eat right and drink enough water is key. These steps fit with the advice for treating hemorrhoids, which suggests a whole-body approach.
To help with hemorrhoids, changing what you eat is very helpful. You should get 20–35 grams of fiber every day to avoid constipation and hemorrhoids14. Fiber-rich foods like whole grains, fruits, veggies, nuts, and beans make going to the bathroom easier. They also lower the risk of cancers in the colon and rectum15. Adding more fiber to your diet can cut bleeding from hemorrhoids by half14. For tips on improving your diet at home, check out this site on home remedies for hemorrhoids.
Drinking enough water is crucial for smooth bowel movements and stopping constipation, which can cause hemorrhoids to flare up. Water and a high-fiber diet keep stools soft, making it easier to go without straining15. Adults should try to mix these changes with 150 minutes of exercise each week and strength training, as the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend14. For more on how to stay regular and other tips for digestive health, look at this guide on healthy digestive practices.
If you’re often in pain from hemorrhoids, you might need treatments like rubber-band ligation or stronger medications16. But making the right changes in your daily life can really help reduce symptoms and prevent them in the future.
Popular choices include ANUSOL Plus Hemorrhoidal Ointment, Preparation H Soothing Relief Anti Itch Cream, and Motherlove Postpartum Rhoid Balm. They’re praised for easing pain, stopping itchiness, and lessening swelling.
Search for witch hazel, hydrocortisone, zinc oxide, and pramoxine or lidocaine. Witch hazel calms, while hydrocortisone lowers inflammation. Zinc oxide shields, and pramoxine or lidocaine numbs the area. Phenylephrine, another important ingredient, shrinks blood vessels to reduce puffiness.
Treatments like ointments and creams work well for external hemorrhoids. They provide focused relief. For internal issues, suppositories are a good choice. They offer extensive help. The choice depends on your specific condition and preference.
Hemorrhoids often stem from too much pressure in the pelvic and rectal areas. Causes include straining during toilet visits, lots of sitting, being overweight, and pregnancy. A diet low in fiber, or having constant constipation or diarrhea also contributes.
If there’s a lot of rectal bleeding, severe pain, or OTC treatments don’t help, see a doctor. Lasting or intense symptoms might need medical care and a specific treatment approach.
Changing your lifestyle can help. Eating more fiber and drinking plenty of water make stools softer and easy to pass. This reduces the need to strain. These habits help OTC medicines work better and lessen the chances of hemorrhoids coming back.
