If you struggle with hemorrhoids, we bet you know how uncomfortable and painful they can be. What’s worse, all you can do is wait for them to go away. There are some over-the-counter creams and applications that can help, but what is the most effective medicine for hemorrhoids? If you’re wondering “what can I use over-the-counter for hemorrhoids,” or “does over-the-counter hemorrhoid medicine work,” we’ve got the answers you’re looking for – straight from our colorectal specialists.
What Can I Use Over-the-Counter for Hemorrhoids?
If you’re looking for an over-the-counter (OTC) option for relief from your hemorrhoids, you have a few options:
Preparation H, made by Pfizer, temporarily soothes the itching and pain that hemorrhoids cause. It works by causing the blood vessels in the anus to constrict for a short time. Preparation H and generic brands like it can be used up to four times a day. This product can be used inside the rectal opening to reach internal hemorrhoids.
Tucks is a suppository-only product that can help prevent the burning and itching of hemorrhoids. Tucks and generic brands usually contain zinc oxide, starches, and cocoa butter that protect your anal opening’s sensitive skin from contact with stool. This suppository does not reduce inflammation and is only meant to be preventative. It can be used up to six times per day.
Witch Hazel is an all-natural solution to your hemorrhoid woes. You can find it bottled straight or in a variety of suppositories, pads, and lotions. Witch hazel works well because it naturally constricts those blood vessels and soothes itchiness and irritation.
What Is the Most Effective Medicine for Hemorrhoids?
There’s no good answer to this question for everyone. Depending on where your hemorrhoid is, you may need a suppository to find relief, and other products may not work at all for you. As far as numbing the anus and relieving external itchiness and stinging, Preparation H and Witch Hazel are good options. If you’re able to, grabbing several types of medications can help you find what works for you (without having to go out three or four times!).
Does Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Medicine Work?
The answer to this question is going to depend on what you buy and how well you use it. If you’re following the directions properly and keeping the area clean and dry, you’ll at least notice your symptoms reduce in severity. This reduction of symptoms will help you leave them alone and help them heal properly.
As always, if your condition worsens or does not improve at all for seven days, get in touch with your doctor to rule out other conditions.
What Else Can I Do at Home to Get Relief?
We’ve also covered some other ways you can treat your hemorrhoids at home, with holistic methods. Check out 6 Holistic Remedies For Hemorrhoids You Can Try At Home for ideas.
No Matter What I Try, My Hemorrhoids Won’t Go Away!
If you’re in this boat, you’re not alone. We work with patients every day who have really tried everything. For these patients, we highly recommend surgery. Depending on where your hemorrhoids usually occur, we can even prevent them from coming back! If you’re ready to get rid of your hemorrhoids for good, contact our team or ask for a referral from your doctor.