Hemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and bleeding, significantly impacting the quality of life. Understanding the various treatment options and cures is essential for effective management and relief. This comprehensive guide explores the best hemorrhoid treatments and cures, including home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, medical procedures, and lifestyle changes.
Top Picks
- LEAVE THE PAIN BEHIND: Doctor Butler’s hemorrhoid ointment and anorectal lidocaine cream was developed by a Board Certified Proctologist to ensure our ingredients offer the best hemorrhoid treatment for women and men.
- LIDOCAINE NUMBING CREAM: This hemorrhoid relief and fissure treatment formula works as a numbing cream for rapid relief from hemorrhoids. Our hemorrhoids cream also features Phenylephrine, a vasoconstrictor to help reduce swelling.
- HEAL, SOOTHE and PROTECT: Discover instant relief with this paraben free hemorrhoidal cream that also features herbs, essential oils and minerals, and amino acids for added healing solutions. Aloe vera extract, ginseng extract and horse chestnut offer further benefits with skin protectant properties for external hemorrhoid care.*
- LEADING HEMORRHOIDS TREATMENT: Join more than 200,000 satisfied new customers who purchased Doctor Butler’s hemorrhoid products for multi symptom relief over this year. Feel the relief of fissures and hemorrhoid pain, discomfort, burning, itching and swelling.*
- MADE IN THE USA: Doctor Butler’s ointments, creams, and sprays are manufactured in the USA under rigorous quality controls to ensure the safe & effective use of all our products. We have also partnered with Leaping Bunny to maintain cruelty free standards across our brand.
- Includes one 0.9 Ounce tube of Preparation H Maximum Strength Hemorrhoid Pain Relief cream.
- The only over the counter hemorrhoid treatment cream with maximum strength pramoxine for multi-symptom relief.
- Proprietary hemorrhoid cream blend with vitamin E, panthenol and soothing aloe.
- Provides rapid hemorrhoid relief from pain, burning, itching and discomfort.
- Preparation H cream rapidly relieves external hemorrhoid symptoms.
- These wipes flush
- 48 wipes
- By Prep H
- Provides pain relief
- Soothes, cools, and comforts
Understanding Hemorrhoids
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are clusters of veins located in the lower rectum and anus, which can become swollen and inflamed due to increased pressure. They are classified into two main types:
- Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, these hemorrhoids are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- External Hemorrhoids: Found under the skin around the anus, these can be painful and cause significant discomfort, especially when they become thrombosed (when a blood clot forms within the hemorrhoid).
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:
- Straining During Bowel Movements: Excessive straining due to constipation or diarrhea can increase pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to hemorrhoid formation.
- Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the abdomen and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids to develop or worsen.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can put additional pressure on the veins in the pelvic and rectal area, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity and prolonged sitting can contribute to poor blood circulation and increase the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids.
- Genetics: Some individuals may have a genetic predisposition to developing hemorrhoids.
- Dietary Factors: A low-fiber diet and inadequate fluid intake can lead to constipation, straining, and increased risk of hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:
- Rectal Bleeding: Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
- Itching and Discomfort: Irritation and itching in the anal region, often accompanied by a feeling of fullness or discomfort.
- Pain: External hemorrhoids may cause pain, especially during bowel movements or when sitting for extended periods.
- Swelling: Visible swelling or lumps around the anus, particularly in the case of external hemorrhoids.
Diagnosis of Hemorrhoids
Diagnosing hemorrhoids typically involves a physical examination of the anal area. In some cases, further diagnostic tests may be necessary, including:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): A healthcare provider inserts a lubricated, gloved finger into the rectum to feel for any abnormalities, such as swollen blood vessels.
- Anoscopy or Proctoscopy: A procedure in which a tube with a light at the end (anoscope or proctoscope) is inserted into the anus to examine the rectum and lower colon.
- Colonoscopy: If there are concerns about other digestive conditions or if bleeding is persistent, a colonoscopy may be recommended to examine the entire colon and rectum.
Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids
Home Remedies
Several home remedies can help alleviate the symptoms of hemorrhoids and promote healing, including:
- Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories containing ingredients like hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or aloe vera can provide relief from itching, pain, and inflammation.
- Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day can help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- High-Fiber Diet: Increasing fiber intake from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can soften stools and make bowel movements easier, reducing strain on the rectum and anus.
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps prevent constipation and promotes softer stools, reducing the risk of aggravating hemorrhoids.
- Stool Softeners: Over-the-counter stool softeners or fiber supplements can help prevent constipation and make bowel movements more comfortable.
Over-the-Counter Treatments
In addition to home remedies, several over-the-counter (OTC) treatments are available to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, including:
- Topical Analgesics: Creams or ointments containing lidocaine or pramoxine can provide temporary pain relief.
- Vasoconstrictors: Products containing phenylephrine or ephedrine can help shrink swollen blood vessels and reduce inflammation.
- Witch Hazel Pads: Pre-soaked pads or wipes containing witch hazel can soothe itching and inflammation when applied to the anal area.
- Oral Pain Relievers: Non-prescription pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help alleviate discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
Medical Procedures
For more severe cases of hemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatments, medical procedures may be recommended, including:
- Rubber Band Ligation: A healthcare provider places a rubber band around the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off within a few days.
- Sclerotherapy: Injection of a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid tissue to shrink it.
- Infrared Coagulation: A heat-based therapy that uses infrared light to coagulate the blood vessels supplying the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids, usually reserved for severe cases or when other treatments have failed.
Lifestyle Changes
Making certain lifestyle modifications can help prevent hemorrhoids from recurring and improve overall anal health, including:
- Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
- Regular Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can improve circulation and promote bowel regularity.
- Avoid Straining: Straining during bowel movements should be avoided, as it can exacerbate hemorrhoids. Taking your time and allowing stools to pass naturally is important.
- Proper Hygiene: Keeping the anal area clean and dry, and avoiding harsh soaps or wipes, can help prevent irritation and infection.
Best Hemorrhoid Products
1. Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Cream
- Description: Preparation H is a well-known brand offering various hemorrhoidal treatments, including creams, ointments, and suppositories. Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Cream is formulated to provide relief from itching, burning, and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like phenylephrine and petrolatum.
- Provides temporary relief from hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Soothes irritated skin and reduces swelling.
- Available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Benefits:
- Offers quick relief from itching and burning sensations.
- Easy to apply and suitable for external hemorrhoids.
- Can be used as needed throughout the day for symptom management.
2. Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads
- Description: Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads are medicated pads infused with witch hazel, a natural astringent known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. These pads are designed to provide immediate relief from hemorrhoid symptoms, including itching, burning, and irritation.
- Key Features:
- Contains witch hazel as the active ingredient.
- Provides a cooling sensation upon application.
- Can be used after childbirth or during menstrual periods for soothing relief.
- Alcohol-free and gentle on sensitive skin.
- Benefits:
- Offers instant cooling and relief from discomfort.
- Convenient and portable for use at home or on-the-go.
- Helps reduce inflammation and promote healing of irritated skin.
3. Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Suppositories
- Description: Preparation H Hemorrhoidal Suppositories are designed for internal hemorrhoid relief. They are inserted into the rectum to provide targeted relief from pain, itching, and swelling associated with internal hemorrhoids.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like phenylephrine and cocoa butter.
- Provides relief from internal hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Helps reduce swelling and promote healing of the affected area.
- Available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Benefits:
- Targets symptoms directly at the source for effective relief.
- Convenient and easy to use.
- Can be used alongside other hemorrhoid treatments for comprehensive symptom management.
4. Doctor Butler’s Hemorrhoid & Fissure Ointment
- Description: Doctor Butler’s Hemorrhoid & Fissure Ointment is a non-prescription treatment formulated to provide relief from hemorrhoid and fissure symptoms. It contains organic and natural ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory, soothing, and healing properties.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like organic herbs, minerals, and amino acids.
- Provides relief from pain, itching, burning, and irritation.
- Helps promote healing of damaged tissue and reduces inflammation.
- Free from synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes.
- Benefits:
- Gentle and non-irritating formula suitable for sensitive skin.
- Can be used for both internal and external hemorrhoids.
- Offers long-lasting relief and promotes overall anal health.
5. Anusol Hemorrhoidal Ointment
- Description: Anusol Hemorrhoidal Ointment is a topical treatment designed to relieve symptoms associated with hemorrhoids, such as itching, swelling, and discomfort. It contains active ingredients that help reduce inflammation and soothe irritated skin.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like zinc oxide, bismuth oxide, and balsam peru.
- Forms a protective barrier over the affected area to prevent further irritation.
- Provides relief from itching, burning, and soreness.
- Available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Benefits:
- Effective for both internal and external hemorrhoids.
- Can be used as needed for symptom relief.
- Helps promote healing of damaged tissue and reduces swelling.
6. Naticura Hem-Control Natural Hemorrhoid Treatment
- Description: Naticura Hem-Control is a natural hemorrhoid treatment formulated with organic and plant-based ingredients. It is designed to provide relief from hemorrhoid symptoms while promoting overall anal health and wellness.
- Key Features:
- Contains organic horse chestnut, witch hazel, and ginger root.
- Helps reduce inflammation, itching, and discomfort.
- Promotes healthy blood circulation and strengthens blood vessels.
- Free from synthetic chemicals, artificial additives, and fillers.
- Benefits:
- Gentle and non-irritating formula suitable for sensitive skin.
- Addresses the root cause of hemorrhoids for long-term relief.
- Supports natural healing processes and improves overall anal health.
7. Recticare Lidocaine 5% Anorectal Cream
- Description: Recticare Lidocaine 5% Anorectal Cream is a topical analgesic cream formulated to provide fast and effective relief from pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids. It contains 5% lidocaine, a numbing agent that helps temporarily numb the affected area.
- Key Features:
- Contains 5% lidocaine as the active ingredient.
- Provides fast-acting pain relief and numbing sensation.
- Helps reduce itching, burning, and discomfort.
- Suitable for both internal and external hemorrhoids.
- Benefits:
- Offers immediate relief from hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Can be used as needed for symptom management.
- Easy-to-use cream formulation for convenient application.
8. Venapro Hemorrhoid Relief
- Description: Venapro Hemorrhoid Relief is a homeopathic treatment designed to alleviate symptoms associated with hemorrhoids, including pain, itching, and swelling. It is formulated with natural ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties.
- Key Features:
- Contains natural ingredients like horse chestnut, arnica, and witch hazel.
- Provides relief from pain, itching, burning, and irritation.
- Promotes healing of damaged tissue and reduces inflammation.
- Liquid spray formulation for easy and convenient administration.
- Benefits:
- Gentle and non-irritating formula suitable for sensitive skin.
- Addresses the root cause of hemorrhoids for long-term relief.
- Supports overall anal health and wellness.
9. Tronolane Hemorrhoid Cream
- Description: Tronolane Hemorrhoid Cream is a topical treatment formulated to provide relief from itching, burning, and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. It contains active ingredients that help soothe irritated skin and reduce inflammation.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like pramoxine and zinc oxide.
- Provides fast-acting relief from hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Helps reduce itching, burning, and soreness.
- Available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Benefits:
- Offers quick relief from discomfort and irritation.
- Suitable for both internal and external hemorrhoids.
- Can be used as needed throughout the day for symptom management.
10. Mayinglong Musk Hemorrhoids Ointment Cream
- Description: Mayinglong Musk Hemorrhoids Ointment Cream is a traditional Chinese herbal remedy for hemorrhoids. It is formulated with a blend of natural ingredients known for their anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and healing properties.
- Key Features:
- Contains active ingredients like borneol, amber, and calamine.
- Provides relief from pain, itching, burning, and swelling.
- Promotes healing of damaged tissue and reduces inflammation.
- Traditional herbal formula with a long history of use.
- Benefits:
- Effective for both internal and external hemorrhoids.
- Addresses the root cause of hemorrhoids for long-term relief.
- Can be used as needed for symptom management.
Cost of hemorrhoid products
Hemorrhoid products come in various forms, including creams, ointments, suppositories, pads, and sprays, each designed to alleviate symptoms associated with hemorrhoids. The cost of these products can vary depending on factors such as brand, formulation, and quantity. Typically, over-the-counter hemorrhoid products are more affordable than prescription treatments or medical procedures.
On average, over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, ointments, and suppositories can range from $5 to $30 per package, with prices influenced by the brand reputation, ingredients used, and packaging size. Medicated pads infused with witch hazel or other soothing agents may cost between $6 and $15 per package. Natural or homeopathic hemorrhoid remedies may be priced slightly higher, ranging from $10 to $40 per package, reflecting the use of organic ingredients and specialized formulations.
Who needs hemorrhoid products?
Hemorrhoids can affect individuals of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. While certain factors, such as pregnancy, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle, may increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids, anyone can experience this condition at some point in their lives. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching, burning, pain, swelling, and bleeding, which can significantly impact a person’s quality of life.
People experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms often seek relief from over-the-counter hemorrhoid products to manage discomfort and promote healing. Those with mild to moderate symptoms may find relief with topical treatments such as creams, ointments, and pads, which provide temporary relief from itching, burning, and swelling. Individuals with internal hemorrhoids may benefit from suppositories, which deliver medication directly to the affected area.
Additionally, certain groups of individuals may be more prone to hemorrhoids or may require specialized hemorrhoid products:
- Pregnant Women: Pregnancy can increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids due to hormonal changes, increased pressure on the abdomen, and constipation. Pregnant women often seek safe and effective hemorrhoid products to alleviate symptoms and improve comfort during pregnancy and postpartum recovery.
- Elderly Individuals: Age-related factors such as weakened pelvic floor muscles, reduced tissue elasticity, and chronic health conditions may contribute to the development or exacerbation of hemorrhoids in older adults. Hemorrhoid products tailored to the needs of elderly individuals, such as gentle formulations and easy-to-use applicators, may be beneficial.
- Individuals with Chronic Conditions: Certain medical conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), Crohn’s disease, and chronic constipation may predispose individuals to hemorrhoids. People with underlying health conditions may require specialized hemorrhoid products or medical intervention to manage symptoms effectively.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are a common condition that can cause discomfort and interfere with daily activities. Fortunately, effective treatments and preventive measures are available to manage symptoms and promote healing.
Whether through home remedies, over-the-counter treatments, medical procedures, or lifestyle changes, individuals can find relief from hemorrhoid symptoms and improve their quality of life. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate treatment approach based on the severity of symptoms and individual health needs.
