what is the best over the counter hemorrhoid treatment

Piles, also called hemorrhoids, are inflamed veins located in the lowest part of the rectum and the anus. This is important to many people due to the fact that identifying the best OTC treatment is perhaps one of the primary ways of managing some conditions and minimizing the impact that these conditions may have on one’s daily life. Here is a detailed guide of the top OTC hemorrhoid products, their component and how each product can treat hemorrhoids.

Knowing Some Facts About Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are classified into two main types:

Internal Hemorrhoids: These are usually painless tumours, situated inside the rectum, which may present with blood in the stool.

External Hemorrhoids: These cysts are located in the groin area particularly under the skin around the anus and are, generally more painful and may lead to formation of pimple like nodules.

Common causes of hemorrhoids include:

• Pushing hard during defecation
• Constipation for an extended period, or diarrhea
• Sitting for long periods, but particularly on the lavatory
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• Obesity

These factors should be managed in order to avoid developing hemorrhoids and also for the management of hemorrhoids. However, whenever the signs are manifested, over-the-counter remedies provide an economic and competent solution.

The Most Popular Non-prescription Hemorrhoid Products.

Hemorrhoid Creams And Ointments

Topical creams and ointments are also used broadly regarded as the best OTC remedies because of their simple application and the immediate effect. These products help minimize inflammation, block nerve sensations of pain and alleviate itching. Some of the most effective active ingredients include:

Hydrocortisone: The topical antirheumatic agent is a moderate potency anti-inflammatory steroid with minimal antipruritic activity.

Lidocaine: An ester group local anaesthetic that produces transient sensory and motor palsies in the field of blockade.

Phenylephrine: An agent for the constriction of dilated blood vessels.

Recommended Products:

Preparation H: It is Phenylephrine containing and has some relief from multiple symptoms.

Recticare: Enhanced with lidocaine to exclusively address the issue of pain.

Hemorrhoid Suppositories

In the case of internal hemorrhoids suppositories are most effective since they introduce medication into the specific area. These are generally the same as the creams but are supposed to dissolve in the inner lining of the rectum.

Key Benefits:

• Decrease the inflammatory response and oedemas
• Reduces rash and itching and discomfort
• Popular Choices:
• Preparation H Suppositories
• Anusol Suppositories

Witch Hazel Pads

Astringents, especially the witch hazel, are used to treat hemorrhoids. Such coating is very soft and efficient that is why witch hazel pads are used to minimize inflammation or irritation.

Why Choose Witch Hazel Pads?

Moisturizes skin and has a non harsh feel on sensitive skin

Provides cooling relief

Reduces the incidences of itchiness and redness

Notable Products:

Tucks Medicated Cooling Pads

Preparation H Medicated Wipes

Epsom Salt Baths

A warm bath with Epsom salts should relieve the symptoms of external hemorrhoids to some extent. The combination of warmth and magnesium sulfate in Epsom salts helps to:

Reduce inflammation

Soothe irritation

Relax the muscles

How to Use:

Bathe the affected area in warm water by soak a bathtub or sitz bath.

On this note, pour in 2-3 tablespoons of Epsom salts.

Soak for 15-20 minutes.

Hemorrhoid Cooling Gels

Cooling gels help to cool the area since they freeze the inflamed spot around the affected area. Such gels may include natural healing ingredients such as aloe vera which has anti-inflammatory qualities.

Top Picks:

Some of the brands of hemorrhoid creams that are available on the market include; HemAway Fast Hemorrhoid Relief Gel.

Aloe vera-based gels.

Fiber Supplements

Although not a medication, fiber supplements are crucial as they contribute to saving the colon more from irritation, and to healing. They also contain fiber that has beneficiary effect on the movements by softening the stools.

Recommended Fiber Sources:

Psyllium husk (Metamucil)

Methylcellulose (Citrucel)

How to Select the Most Effective Over the Counter Hemorrhoid Treatment

When selecting an over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatment, consider the following factors:

Type of Hemorrhoid: If the hemorrhoids are external then creams and gels should be used and suppositories should be used if the hemorrhoids are internal.

Symptoms: Buy products that are tailored on your symptoms, whether it is pain, itching or inflammation.

Skin Sensitivity: Look for hypoallergenic or natural fibers if your skin is sensitive to synthetic ones out there.

Ease of Use: Think about how you want the application, that is as wipes, creams or suppositories?

Guidelines for the Use of Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Remedies

Follow Instructions: For safe application, always read and strictly follow the instructions for use of the product.

Maintain Hygiene: Do not let the affected skin come into contact with water or any other irritant in order to avoid worsening of the condition.

Avoid Overuse: Long-term use of some forms of treatment including hydrocortisone creams leads to skin thinning.

Combine Treatments: To get both types of remedial effects together, then use cream in conjunction with fiber supplements for example.

When to Go To the Doctor

Indeed, while the treatment of hemorrhoids can be conducted at home, some cases call or medical attention. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

Severe pain or discomfort

Persistent bleeding

Hemorrhoids that did not resolve within one week of management

Symptoms of infection for example fever or inflammatio

Preventing Hemorrhoids

Recurrent hemorrhoids are well prevented through the following measures. Incorporate these habits into your daily routine:

Increase Fiber Intake: Consume balanced diet consisting of foods and vegetables and whole grain products.

Stay Hydrated: You should also ensure that you take plenty of water with the view of having soft stools.

Exercise Regularly: A before mentioned implication is that, physical activity assists in the regulation of bowel movements.

Avoid Straining: Bathroom whenever you want to and do not spend much time on the toilet seat.

Final Thoughts

Non-prescription hemorrhoid remedies can be used by most people and offer considerable relief. You can be comfortable with hemorrhoids by knowing what symptoms you are experiencing and selecting the proper products for treatment. It will also be useful to adopt preventive strategies to reduce the chances of reoccurrence of the conditions into your lifestyle. In chronic or severe cases, consulting a doctor is obligatory to find out how to manage the situation properly.