Hemorrhoids are inflamed, swollen veins that appear inside or around the anus. They are very common, especially among adults over 50, and may result from excessive straining during bowel movements, constipation, obesity, or genetic predispositions. People with hemorrhoids usually experience significant discomfort in the form of itching, burning, and chronic pain. Individuals who suffer from hemorrhoids have many different treatment options to provide relief from symptoms and shorten healing time. Several types of over-the-counter and prescription hemorrhoid medication are available in the form of creams, gels, medicated pads, and suppositories.
Most people who experience occasional external hemorrhoids can recover in one to two weeks by consistently applying a topical, over-the-counter hemorrhoid medication. Most topical creams and ointments work as local anesthetics, numbing the area and thereby reducing burning and itching. Certain products contain soothing calamine lotions and witch hazel solutions that act as astringents, shrinking hemorrhoid tissue and reducing local swelling. Many over-the-counter products combine anesthetic and astringent ingredients to effectively reduce pain, swelling, and healing time of stubborn hemorrhoids. Individuals are usually instructed to reapply topical solutions several times a day.
Medicated pads and wipes contain the same active ingredients as topical creams and gels. People employ the wipes to fully clean the infected area, provide relief from swelling, pain, and irritation. Many medicated pads and wipes contain petroleum-based solutions to provide extra lubrication and reduce the strain involved in passing bowels. Like topical remedies, these types of hemorrhoid medication are usually recommended for multiple daily use.
Suppositories are generally the preferred option for individuals who experience internal hemorrhoids on a periodic basis. Internal hemorrhoids usually cause bowel movements to be very painful, and some individuals are physically unable to pass stools. Hemorrhoid medication in the form of a dissolving suppository provides immediate relief from swelling and redness, making it possible to once again pass stools. Like external hemorrhoids, internal ones usually disappear completely in less than two weeks with regular treatment.
Individuals with severe or persistent hemorrhoid problems should consult their doctors to determine the most appropriate treatment plans. A doctor will usually initiate treatment by providing a stronger version of one of the types of hemorrhoid medication described above. If prescription topical creams and suppositories are insufficient, the physician may conduct a litigation procedure or recommend surgery to remove painful hemorrhoids. Rubber band litigation is an invasive procedure in which the physician ties a small rubber band around a hemorrhoid, restricting blood flow and eventually causing the growth to shrivel and fall off. Surgical remedies often involve cutting out part or all of the inflamed hemorrhoid tissue to provide immediate relief.