Hemorrhoid Cream | Options For Relief

Over-The-Counter Hemorrhoid Creams

Nonprescription, over-the-counter (OTC) hemorrhoid creams usually include hydrocortisone, phenylephrine, lidocaine or a combination of similar ingredients.

Phenylephrine is a vasoconstrictor that shrinks blood vessels. Hydrocortisone is a steroid that calms your immune response to decrease inflammation. Both of these ingredients can relieve hemorrhoid symptoms like itching, pain and burning.

Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that temporarily numbs the area.

Here are OTC creams to consider for hemorrhoid symptom relief:

• Preparation H: Preparation H hemorrhoid cream is easy to find and can temporarily reduce pain. Several types of Preparation H products are available, including an anti-itch cream and an ointment for external or intrarectal use. Preparation H ointment contains phenylephrine and can be used to temporarily shrink hemorrhoidal tissue and relieve related symptoms. Preparation H anti-itch cream contains hydrocortisone. It’s designed for external use to relieve itching.
• Tucks: Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads contain a witch hazel solution to soothe burning, itching and irritation. You can use these pads to wipe the external affected area several times a day or after bowel movements. You may also try the Tucks Multi-Care Relief Kit, which includes cooling pads and a lidocaine cream to numb painful hemorrhoids.
• Dr. Butler’s: Dr. Butler’s Hemorrhoid and Fissure Ointment contains lidocaine and phenylephrine to relieve pain and temporarily reduce swelling. This ointment is designed for both external and intrarectal use.

It is important to keep in mind that these treatments are not meant to be used long-term. Talk to your doctor about which OTC Hemorrhoid Cream may be right for you.

DIY Hemorrhoid Creams

If you prefer to try homemade hemorrhoid ointments or creams or use natural remedies, there are a few options. Here are a some DIY treatments you might try for fast relief:

• Petroleum jelly: If hemorrhoids are causing discomfort during bowel movements, consider using petroleum jelly. You can apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to your anal area which may make bowel movements easier.
• Aloe vera: Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory properties which can soothe symptoms. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, aloe vera is generally well-tolerated and has been shown to promote burn healing and decrease pain from burns. If you choose to use aloe vera as a DIY hemorrhoid treatment cream, make sure you choose pure aloe vera to avoid irritation from other ingredients. You can apply the pure gel to the affected area frequently.
• Epsom salt and glycerin: A DIY hemorrhoid relief cream made with Epsom salt and glycerin is a simple, effective treatment. You can mix 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt with 2 tablespoons of glycerin and add the mixture to a gauze pad. Place the pad on the affected area for about 15 minutes to relieve hemorrhoid pain.
• Witch hazel: Witch hazel is a plant with soothing, anti-inflammatory properties. It’s a natural astringent, meaning it shrinks tissues. You can buy witch hazel in anti-itch wipes or purchase it in liquid form. If you choose liquid witch hazel, add a small amount to a cotton ball or toilet paper and apply it directly to the painful area. Make sure the witch hazel is alcohol-free to prevent irritation.
• Coconut oil: Coconut oil has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, so it can potentially reduce hemorrhoid discomfort. To use coconut oil, you can melt it and mix it with witch hazel. Apply the mixture to your hemorrhoids using a cotton ball multiple times a day. You can also add about half a cup of coconut oil to your bath water to soothe hemorrhoids.