What works instead of hemorrhoid cream?

October 7, 2025 •

4 min read

According to the Mayo Clinic, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum, and while creams are a common treatment, many effective alternatives and lifestyle adjustments exist to provide relief and address the root causes. You can often find significant relief from pain and discomfort by using simple at-home methods instead of hemorrhoid cream.

Quick Summary

This guide explores effective, non-cream alternatives for hemorrhoids, detailing soothing home remedies, necessary lifestyle adjustments, and when professional medical care is essential.

Key Points

Sitz baths offer soothing relief: Soaking in warm water for 15-20 minutes, especially after a bowel movement, can relax muscles and reduce swelling.
Increase fiber and hydration: A high-fiber diet and ample water intake soften stools, preventing straining that causes hemorrhoids.
Witch hazel provides topical relief: Medicated pads with witch hazel can reduce itching and swelling due to its natural astringent properties.
Cold compresses reduce pain: Applying an ice pack wrapped in a cloth for short periods can numb the area and decrease inflammation.
Modify bathroom habits: Avoid straining and prolonged sitting on the toilet to minimize pressure on the rectal veins.
Consult a doctor for persistent issues: If symptoms don't improve within a week, or if there is severe pain or bleeding, it's essential to seek professional medical advice.

Immediate and Topical Relief Alternatives

For many people experiencing hemorrhoid discomfort, the fastest path to relief lies in simple, targeted at-home applications that don't involve traditional creams. These methods primarily focus on soothing inflammation, reducing swelling, and managing pain.

Soothing Sitz Baths

One of the most time-honored treatments for hemorrhoids is the sitz bath. This involves soaking the anal area in a few inches of warm (not hot) water for 15 to 20 minutes, two to three times per day, especially after a bowel movement. This can significantly increase blood flow to the area, relax the anal sphincter, and relieve pain and itching. You can use a standard bathtub or purchase a small, plastic basin that fits over your toilet seat. While plain warm water is effective, some people add Epsom salts for extra comfort, though scientific evidence for their specific benefit is limited.

Cold Therapy with Ice Packs

Applying a cold compress or ice pack to the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes at a time can numb the nerve endings and reduce swelling. It is crucial to wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel to avoid damaging the delicate skin. This method can be particularly effective for relieving flare-ups characterized by intense pain and inflammation.

Witch Hazel Pads

Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can be applied topically to reduce swelling and itching. Pre-moistened, medicated pads containing witch hazel, such as Tucks, are readily available over-the-counter and provide a gentle, soothing application after bowel movements or throughout the day for relief. When using pure witch hazel, apply it to a cotton ball and dab the affected area, ensuring it does not contain alcohol, which can cause irritation.

Proper Hygiene for Relief

Harsh, dry toilet paper can worsen hemorrhoid irritation. Instead, consider using the following for a gentler clean:

Damp toilet paper: Moisten a small amount of toilet paper with water.
Unscented wipes: Use alcohol-free baby wipes or wipes specifically designed for hemorrhoids.
Cotton pads: Use a damp cotton pad for sensitive skin.
Gentle patting: Always pat the area gently rather than rubbing vigorously.

Long-Term Lifestyle and Dietary Solutions

For lasting relief and prevention, focusing on the root causes of hemorrhoids is essential. The primary cause is often straining during bowel movements, which can be addressed through diet and lifestyle.

Boost Your Fiber Intake

A diet rich in fiber softens stools and increases their bulk, making them easier to pass and reducing straining. The recommended fiber intake is about 25 to 38 grams per day for most adults. High-fiber foods include:

Whole grains (oats, brown rice, whole-wheat bread)
Fruits (berries, apples, pears)
Vegetables (broccoli, carrots, leafy greens)
Legumes (beans, lentils)

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of water and other non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic fluids is critical for digestive health. Adequate hydration works alongside fiber to keep stools soft, preventing constipation and the associated straining that can aggravate hemorrhoids.

Exercise Regularly

Regular physical activity, even brisk walking for 20-30 minutes daily, helps keep the bowels moving and reduces pressure on the rectal veins. Exercise also helps with weight management, which can reduce pressure on the pelvic area and minimize hemorrhoid formation.

Adopt Better Toilet Habits

Modify your bathroom routine to prevent future flare-ups:

Don't strain: Avoid pushing or holding your breath during bowel movements.
Limit time on the toilet: Sitting for too long, especially while reading or on your phone, can increase pressure.
Go when you feel the urge: Delaying bowel movements can make stools harder to pass later.
Elevate your feet: Placing a small stool or stack of books under your feet while on the toilet can change the angle of your rectum, facilitating easier passage.

Comparison of Hemorrhoid Cream Alternatives


Alternative Method	Symptom Relieved	Primary Action	Best For	Considerations
Sitz Bath	Pain, Itching, Swelling	Increases blood flow, relaxes sphincter	Soothing overall discomfort	Requires time and a basin or bathtub
Cold Compress	Pain, Swelling	Numbing, anti-inflammatory	Quick, temporary relief of acute pain	Use for short periods, wrap in cloth
Witch Hazel Pads	Itching, Swelling	Astringent effect, soothing	On-the-go relief, post-bowel movements	Ensure pads are alcohol-free
Fiber Supplement	Straining, Constipation	Softens and bulks stool	Long-term prevention, regular issues	Increase intake slowly, drink lots of water
Oral Pain Reliever	Pain, Inflammation	Reduces pain throughout the body	Relieving severe pain and soreness	Follow dosage instructions, consult doctor

Other Over-the-Counter Options

In addition to dietary supplements, other oral and topical over-the-counter products can provide relief without being a cream.

Oral Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter oral pain medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage the pain and soreness associated with hemorrhoids. These medications work systemically to reduce overall discomfort.

Fiber Supplements and Stool Softeners

Fiber supplements like psyllium husk (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) can effectively soften stool. For constipation, stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, can also be used to ease the passage of bowel movements, thereby reducing strain on the rectal area. For comprehensive information on incorporating fiber into your diet, visit the NIDDK's dietary guide on hemorrhoids.

When to See a Doctor

While these home remedies can be highly effective, it is important to know when to seek medical advice. See a healthcare professional if:

Your symptoms don't improve after a week of home care.
You experience severe pain or excessive rectal bleeding.
You notice a hard, painful lump around the anus.
You have a history of changes in bowel habits or black/maroon stools.
You feel dizzy or faint, which could indicate significant blood loss.

Conclusion

Addressing hemorrhoids doesn't always require medication. From soothing sitz baths and witch hazel pads to simple lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake and proper hydration, many effective alternatives to hemorrhoid cream exist. By focusing on prevention and employing these remedies, most people can manage their symptoms and find lasting relief. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare provider is the safest and most effective course of action.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, several natural alternatives exist. These include sitz baths with warm water, applying witch hazel or aloe vera, using cold compresses, and increasing dietary fiber and water intake.

For fast relief, a cold compress or ice pack wrapped in a towel can numb the area and reduce swelling. A warm sitz bath can also provide immediate soothing relief.

Increase your intake of high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stools and reduce straining. Drinking plenty of water is also crucial to help fiber work effectively and prevent constipation.

Yes, witch hazel is a natural astringent that can reduce swelling and itching. It is often applied using medicated pads, and it is important to ensure the product is alcohol-free to avoid irritation.

You should see a doctor if your symptoms don't improve with home remedies after a week, if you experience severe pain, excessive bleeding, or if you notice a hard lump or significant changes in your bowel habits.

Yes, over-the-counter options include oral pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain, and fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium husk) or stool softeners to manage constipation.

Avoid using dry, scented, or colored toilet paper. Instead, use damp toilet paper, unscented baby wipes, or moist pads with witch hazel. Pat the area gently instead of rubbing.

Regular, moderate exercise can promote healthy bowel function and reduce constipation, thereby decreasing pressure on the rectal veins and minimizing hemorrhoid flare-ups.