Do Over the Counter Hemorrhoid Treatments Work?

When it comes to hemorrhoid treatments, are over the counter products worthwhile? There are a number of ways to treat hemorrhoids and over the counter methods are one way.

Keep in mind that over the counter hemorrhoid treatments work best in the early stages of the problem. Over the counter hemorrhoid solutions include ointments, creams, laxatives and petroleum jelly.

If you are going to use one of these treatments, you might want to look at hemorrhoid creams that contain an antiseptic and hydrocortisone. If your hemorrhoids are painful taking painkillers might help.

Just keep in mind that this is not a solution or cure for the condition but merely relieves the symptoms and pain of hemorrhoids.

One solution to think about when it comes to hemorrhoids is visiting your doctor. They can usually prescribe some medication or advise you if over the counter treatments will be of a benefit.

Before considering over the counter treatments for hemorrhoids, your first place to look as at your local drug store or pharmacy. You should be able to find a few hemorrhoid treatments that might be right for your situation.

One treatment you might want to try is a hemorrhoid cream. They are often good for soothing the area and giving you some relief.

There are also hemorrhoid pads that you can try. Although similar to hemorrhoid creams, these pads are pre-moistened with medication that can help relieve the uncomfortable symptoms of hemorrhoids.

Before trying any of the many over the counter hemorrhoid solutions, you might want to make sure that they won’t have a negative effect on your health.

Your doctor can give you more information in this case. Besides creams and pads, there are a number of natural or home remedies you can try in order to get relief from hemorrhoids.

If you are suffering from anal itching, there are a number of products you can purchase from a drugstore that can help with this situation.

Here is a list of the many products found at your local drug store or pharmacy:

• Hemorrhoid Ointments
• Hemorrhoid Gels 
• Hemorrhoid Pads 
• Hemorrhoid Foam 
• Hemorrhoid Suppositories 
• Hemorrhoid Creams 

These over the counter products for hemorrhoids offer a number of active ingredients. You can buy either a brand name or generic brands.

Here is a list of active ingredients found in hemorrhoid products:

• Corticosteroids - These should be used in moderation as they can cause irritation to the skin. Try a small dose first to see how well your skin can tolerate the product. However, corticosteroids do help relieve itching and inflammation. 
• Vasoconstrictors – This a chemical that is meant to mimic the effects of epinephrine. You apply the product topically and it helps to reduce swelling by shrinking the blood vessels. As a result, the pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids can be relieved. 
• Antiseptics – There are a number of over the counter hemorrhoid treatments that contain antiseptic ingredients that help to kill bacteria and keep the area clean. 
• Anesthetics and Analgesics - These help to relieve symptoms of burning, itching, and as well the pain of hemorrhoids.

When it comes to over the counter hemorrhoid treatments, consider what will work best for you and doesn’t have any side effects that would make the situation worse.