What Does Hemmroid Cream Do? Your Guide to Hemorrhoid Relief

By age 50, nearly half of all people will have experienced hemorrhoid symptoms at some point, according to Walgreens. When discomfort strikes, over-the-counter options are often the first line of defense, but what does Hemmroid cream do and how does it provide relief?

Quick Summary

Hemorrhoid cream uses active ingredients like vasoconstrictors, anesthetics, and protectants to provide temporary relief from the pain, itching, burning, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. The ingredients work together to soothe irritated tissue, shrink blood vessels, and numb the affected area for immediate comfort.

Key Points

• Symptom Relief: Hemorrhoid creams provide temporary relief from common symptoms like itching, pain, burning, and swelling by using a blend of active ingredients.

• Active Ingredients: Key ingredients include local anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine) for numbing, vasoconstrictors (e.g., phenylephrine) for shrinking swollen vessels, protectants (e.g., petrolatum) for barrier protection, and corticosteroids (e.g., hydrocortisone) for reducing inflammation.

• Proper Application: For best results, clean the affected area before application and follow specific instructions for external or internal use, including proper hand hygiene.

• Short-Term Use: Most hemorrhoid creams, especially those containing steroids, should not be used for more than 7 days without medical supervision to prevent potential side effects like skin thinning.

• Lifestyle Complements: For long-term management, hemorrhoid creams should be used alongside lifestyle changes, including a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and using sitz baths.

Understanding How Hemorrhoid Creams Work

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms, including pain, itching, burning, and swelling. Hemorrhoid creams are topical medications designed to alleviate these symptoms by applying targeted active ingredients directly to the affected area. These ingredients fall into several categories, each addressing a specific aspect of the hemorrhoid symptoms. Relief is often immediate for pain and itching, with soothing and healing benefits becoming more noticeable with consistent use over several days.

Key Active Ingredients and Their Functions

Understanding the components of hemorrhoid creams is essential for choosing the right product for your specific symptoms. Most products combine multiple ingredients to provide comprehensive relief. Key active ingredients include:

• Local Anesthetics: Ingredients like pramoxine HCl, lidocaine, and benzocaine provide temporary numbness to the nerve endings, offering fast relief from pain, soreness, and burning. These are most effective for external use.
• Vasoconstrictors: Phenylephrine HCl is a common vasoconstrictor that works by temporarily narrowing the blood vessels in the affected area. This action helps to shrink swollen hemorrhoidal tissue and reduce inflammation.
• Protectants: Ingredients such as petrolatum, mineral oil, glycerin, and zinc oxide form a protective barrier over the irritated skin. This barrier helps prevent further moisture loss, guards against irritation from stool, and soothes the inflamed area to promote healing.
• Astringents: Witch hazel is a natural astringent often found in wipes and gels. It works by causing the skin and swollen blood vessels to contract, helping to reduce inflammation, itching, and burning sensations.
• Corticosteroids: Creams with hydrocortisone are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. This steroid reduces inflammation and itching by calming the body's immune response in the local tissue. Due to potential side effects like skin thinning, hydrocortisone products should not be used for more than seven consecutive days without a doctor's supervision.

How to Choose and Apply Hemorrhoid Cream

Choosing the right cream depends on your primary symptoms and whether your hemorrhoids are internal or external. Once you have selected a product, following the proper application instructions is crucial for effectiveness and safety. Always read the specific product's label for detailed directions.

For external application:

• Gently clean the affected area with mild soap and warm water or medicated wipes, then pat dry.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before and after application to prevent infection.
• Squeeze a small, pea-sized amount of cream onto your fingertip and apply it gently to the skin around the anus.
• Most creams are recommended for use up to four times daily, often after bowel movements and at bedtime, though you should always follow the package instructions.

For internal application (often using an applicator included with the product):

• Have a bowel movement if possible and clean the area as instructed.
• Attach the applicator to the tube and lubricate its tip with a small amount of cream for easier insertion.
• Gently insert the applicator 1 to 2 inches into the rectum and squeeze the tube to apply the medication.
• Wash the applicator and your hands thoroughly after each use.

Comparison of Hemorrhoid Cream Types

Cream Type	Primary Active Ingredients	Main Purpose	Best For	Precautions
Anesthetic Cream	Pramoxine, Lidocaine, Benzocaine	Numbing pain and itching	External hemorrhoids with significant pain and itching	Use only externally; limit use to short durations; rare allergic reactions.
Vasoconstrictor Cream	Phenylephrine HCl	Shrinking swollen blood vessels	Reducing swelling, burning, and discomfort	Use cautiously if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, or thyroid issues.
Astringent Cream/Wipes	Witch Hazel	Soothing and shrinking tissue	Mild irritation, burning, and itching; post-bowel movement cleansing	May cause dryness with overuse; for temporary, external use only.
Corticosteroid Cream	Hydrocortisone	Reducing inflammation and severe itching	More severe, inflamed hemorrhoids	Do not use for more than 7 days without a doctor's advice due to risk of skin thinning.
Protectant Ointment	Petrolatum, Mineral Oil	Forming a protective barrier	General irritation, lubrication, and soothing sensitive skin	Generally very safe; great for long-term protection, but no active treatment of inflammation.

Potential Side Effects and Precautions

While hemorrhoid creams are generally safe for short-term, external use, it is important to be aware of potential side effects. Common side effects can include a mild burning or stinging sensation upon application, skin dryness, or irritation. More serious side effects, though rare, can include severe allergic reactions (e.g., rash, hives, swelling) or, in the case of prolonged steroid use, skin thinning. If your symptoms do not improve within a week, or if you experience bleeding or worsening pain, you should stop use and consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, those with pre-existing conditions like heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or prostate problems should consult a doctor before using vasoconstrictor-containing creams.

Beyond the Cream: Other Relief Strategies

Medicated creams and ointments are an excellent way to manage symptoms, but they are not a cure for hemorrhoids. For more comprehensive management, consider these lifestyle adjustments and alternative treatments:

• Increase Dietary Fiber: A high-fiber diet softens stool, reducing straining during bowel movements and minimizing pressure on hemorrhoids. Excellent sources include fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water is essential for keeping stools soft and regular, complementing the effects of a high-fiber diet.
• Sitz Baths: Soaking the anal area in a few inches of warm water for 10-20 minutes, a few times a day, can help soothe pain and irritation.
• Medicated Wipes: Products with witch hazel can help clean and soothe the area after a bowel movement.
• Avoid Straining: When on the toilet, avoid straining or holding your breath. Give yourself time and don't linger on the toilet for too long.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps prevent constipation and promotes healthy bowel movements.

For more information on digestive health, you can visit the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases at https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/treatment.

Conclusion

In summary, hemorrhoid creams use a variety of active ingredients—such as local anesthetics, vasoconstrictors, protectants, and corticosteroids—to provide temporary, topical relief from the itching, pain, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. While effective for symptom management, they do not cure the underlying condition. A holistic approach that includes dietary changes, increased hydration, and sitz baths is often necessary for long-term relief and prevention of recurrence. If your symptoms persist after a week of consistent use or are accompanied by bleeding, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hemorrhoid cream be used for internal hemorrhoids?

Yes, some hemorrhoid creams come with an applicator for internal use, though hydrocortisone creams are typically for external use unless a doctor prescribes an internal suppository. Always use the applicator provided and follow package instructions carefully.

How long does it take for hemorrhoid cream to work?

Many hemorrhoid creams provide instant relief from symptoms like pain and itching upon application, while the healing of the tissue becomes more noticeable over several days of consistent use.

What active ingredients should I look for in hemorrhoid cream?

For numbing pain, look for anesthetics like pramoxine or lidocaine. For reducing swelling, phenylephrine is effective. For soothing and protecting skin, seek protectants like petrolatum or glycerin. For inflammation, consider hydrocortisone for short-term use.

How often can I apply hemorrhoid cream?

Most over-the-counter creams can be applied up to four times daily, typically after bowel movements and at bedtime. However, you should always follow the specific instructions on the product label.

When should I see a doctor for hemorrhoids?

You should see a doctor if your symptoms do not improve within seven days of using an over-the-counter cream, if you experience rectal bleeding, or if you have severe pain or other concerning symptoms.

Are there natural alternatives to hemorrhoid cream?

Yes, alternatives include warm sitz baths to soothe the area, witch hazel pads for astringent relief, increasing dietary fiber and fluid intake to soften stools, and using a cold compress for swelling.

Can I use hemorrhoid cream on my face for wrinkles or puffiness?

No. Despite some anecdotal claims, hemorrhoid creams are not approved for use on the face. Their ingredients can irritate the delicate skin around the eyes and may cause serious skin reactions.