What Does Hemorrhoid Creme Do? Understanding Its Purpose and Action

An estimated 10 million people in the U.S. report experiencing hemorrhoids each year, causing disruptive symptoms like pain, itching, and swelling. To combat this discomfort, many turn to over-the-counter creams, but exactly what does hemorrhoid creme do to provide relief?

Quick Summary

Hemorrhoid creams use a combination of active ingredients to provide temporary relief from the pain, itching, burning, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. They soothe irritation and protect the inflamed tissue.

Key Points

• Symptom Relief: Hemorrhoid creams provide temporary relief from the itching, pain, burning, and swelling caused by hemorrhoids by acting topically on the affected area.

• Ingredient Actions: They contain active ingredients like vasoconstrictors (e.g., phenylephrine) to shrink swollen tissue, local anesthetics (e.g., pramoxine) to numb pain, and protectants (e.g., petrolatum) to soothe skin.

• Specific Application: For internal hemorrhoids, some creams come with a specific applicator for deep insertion, while external application is done by hand.

• Short-Term Use: Creams with corticosteroids (hydrocortisone) should not be used for more than one week continuously without a doctor's guidance, as they can cause skin thinning.

• When to See a Doctor: Medical consultation is necessary if symptoms persist beyond a week, if there is excessive bleeding, or if severe pain occurs, to rule out more serious conditions.

• Not a Cure: Hemorrhoid creams manage symptoms but do not cure the underlying condition; long-term prevention relies on lifestyle changes like increasing fiber and staying hydrated.

How Hemorrhoid Creams Work to Provide Relief

Hemorrhoid creams work topically by applying a medicated formula directly to the affected anorectal area. Their effectiveness comes from a combination of active ingredients, each designed to target specific hemorrhoid symptoms, from swelling to itching and pain. It's important to remember that these creams offer temporary symptom management rather than a cure for the underlying condition.

The Active Ingredients and Their Functions

Different creams may contain various ingredients, but most leverage one or more of the following pharmacological actions to provide relief:

• Vasoconstrictors: Ingredients like phenylephrine work by temporarily narrowing the blood vessels in the affected area. This action helps to shrink swollen hemorrhoidal tissue, which in turn reduces swelling and associated discomfort.
• Local Anesthetics: Pain and itching can be intense with hemorrhoids. Anesthetics such as pramoxine and lidocaine work by numbing the nerve endings in the skin, blocking or reducing the sensation of pain and itching. These are for external use only and provide rapid, but temporary, relief.
• Protectants: Ingredients like mineral oil, petrolatum, and zinc oxide serve a dual purpose. They form a protective barrier over the inflamed skin, preventing further irritation from contact with stool and helping to soothe the area. Glycerin also acts as a protectant and a humectant to keep skin from drying out.
• Astringents: Witch hazel is a common natural astringent that can reduce inflammation, relieve burning, and help shrink swollen blood vessels. It works by constricting tissue and temporarily relieving symptoms.
• Corticosteroids: For more persistent inflammation and itching, some creams contain a low-dose steroid like hydrocortisone. This provides a stronger anti-inflammatory effect but is intended for short-term use, as prolonged application can thin the skin.

Internal vs. External Hemorrhoid Cream

Hemorrhoid creams are formulated for either external use or both external and internal application. The type of hemorrhoid—internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus)—determines the appropriate product and application method.

How to Apply Hemorrhoid Cream

Following the correct application instructions is crucial for both safety and effectiveness.

For external hemorrhoids:

1. Clean the affected area gently with mild soap and warm water, then pat dry.
2. Squeeze a small amount of cream onto your finger or a sterile gauze pad.
3. Gently apply the cream to the external anal area.
4. Wash your hands thoroughly after application.

For internal hemorrhoids:

1. Try to have a bowel movement beforehand to maximize contact time.
2. Attach the included applicator to the tube and fill it with cream.
3. Lubricate the applicator tip and gently insert it into the rectum.
4. Slowly squeeze the tube to dispense the medication.
5. Wash the applicator with soap and water after each use.

Comparison of Hemorrhoid Treatments

Topical creams are just one option for hemorrhoid relief. Here is a comparison of different treatments:

Treatment Type	How It Works	Best For	Pros	Cons
Hemorrhoid Creams/Ointments	Delivers active ingredients topically to relieve itching, pain, and swelling.	External hemorrhoids, but some formulas have applicators for internal use.	Fast-acting, readily available over-the-counter.	Temporary relief, can be messy, some ingredients have usage limits.
Hemorrhoid Suppositories	Inserts medication inside the rectum, which is absorbed by rectal tissue to relieve pain and discomfort.	Internal hemorrhoids.	Longer-lasting relief compared to some creams, less messy for internal issues.	Not effective for external hemorrhoids, limited to internal relief.
Sitz Baths	Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10–15 minutes.	Both internal and external hemorrhoids.	Soothes irritation and reduces swelling naturally.	Offers short-term relief and requires time for soaking.
Medicated Wipes	Pre-moistened towelettes with soothing ingredients like witch hazel.	Cleaning and soothing the external area.	Convenient, gentle alternative to toilet paper, offers cooling effect.	Primarily for cleansing and temporary soothing, doesn't offer deep relief.
Dietary Changes	Increasing fiber and fluid intake to soften stools and reduce straining.	Preventing and managing hemorrhoids long-term.	Addresses the root cause, promotes overall digestive health.	Effects are not immediate, may cause gas initially.

Side Effects and When to See a Doctor

While generally safe for short-term use, hemorrhoid creams can cause side effects. Hydrocortisone, for example, can lead to skin thinning if used for more than a week. Other potential side effects include mild burning, stinging, or skin irritation. Products with vasoconstrictors like phenylephrine can cause systemic side effects like increased heart rate, pounding headaches, or nervousness, particularly in those with pre-existing conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.

When is it time to see a doctor?

Seek professional medical advice if your symptoms don't improve after a week of using over-the-counter remedies. You should also consult a doctor if you experience any of the following:

• Severe or excessive rectal bleeding
• Severe pain
• Maroon-colored or dark, tarry stools
• A hemorrhoid that becomes prolapsed and cannot be manually pushed back in
• A blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid) which causes a hard, painful lump

Conclusion

Hemorrhoid creams are a valuable tool for temporarily managing the irritating symptoms of hemorrhoids. By leveraging active ingredients that act as vasoconstrictors, anesthetics, and protectants, these creams can effectively reduce swelling, pain, and itching. However, they are not a long-term cure. For lasting relief and prevention, creams should be used alongside lifestyle adjustments like increasing fiber intake and proper hygiene. Consulting a healthcare professional is crucial if symptoms are severe, persistent, or accompanied by significant bleeding, as these may indicate a more serious condition requiring advanced treatment. For more comprehensive information on diagnosis and treatment, visit the American Academy of Family Physicians website.

Preventing Hemorrhoid Flare-Ups

While creams treat the symptoms, preventative measures address the root cause. Here are some key prevention strategies:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water and other fluids to soften stools and prevent constipation.
• Eat a high-fiber diet: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to increase bulk in your stool, making it easier to pass.
• Don't strain: Avoid straining during bowel movements, as this increases pressure on the rectal veins.
• Don't linger on the toilet: Limit the time you spend sitting on the toilet to reduce pressure.
• Exercise regularly: Physical activity helps promote healthy bowel function.
• Use a stool softener: If diet isn't enough, an over-the-counter stool softener can help prevent straining.

Important Reminders for Using Hemorrhoid Cream

• Only use creams with hydrocortisone for a short period (typically no more than a week) unless directed by a doctor.
• Read all product labels carefully to understand the active ingredients and potential side effects.
• Clean the affected area gently before application for best results.
• Internal applicators should be cleaned thoroughly after each use.

By understanding what hemorrhoid creme does and combining it with preventative strategies, individuals can find significant, though temporary, relief from discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I apply hemorrhoid cream?

Most hemorrhoid creams provide guidelines for frequency of use, often suggesting application multiple times a day. Always follow the specific instructions on the product packaging or your doctor's recommendations.

How long does hemorrhoid cream take to work?

The relief from hemorrhoid cream is often quite fast, especially for symptoms like itching and pain, due to local anesthetic ingredients. However, it provides temporary relief, and the duration varies depending on the specific ingredients.

Can I use hemorrhoid cream for more than a week?

It is generally not recommended to use hemorrhoid cream for longer than a week without consulting a doctor, especially if it contains hydrocortisone. Prolonged use of steroid creams can potentially thin the skin and lead to other side effects.

Are there any side effects of hemorrhoid cream?

Side effects can include mild burning, stinging, or irritation. Creams with phenylephrine should be used with caution by individuals with heart problems or high blood pressure, as it can cause headaches or a rapid heartbeat.

What's the difference between hemorrhoid cream and suppositories?

Hemorrhoid creams are typically used for external symptoms, while suppositories are designed to be inserted into the rectum to treat internal hemorrhoids. The choice depends on the location of your symptoms.

Will hemorrhoid cream cure my hemorrhoids?

No, hemorrhoid cream does not cure hemorrhoids. It is a symptomatic treatment that provides temporary relief from pain, itching, and swelling. Long-term management often requires lifestyle changes.

When should I see a doctor instead of using hemorrhoid cream?

Consult a doctor if your symptoms don't improve after a week of home treatment, if you experience severe pain, notice a significant amount of rectal bleeding, or have dark, tarry stools, which could indicate a more serious condition.