Hemorrhoid Cream – Effects, Ingredients and Use
A hemorrhoid cream relieves symptoms such as itching, burning, and swelling in the anal area. It is applied topically and is one of the most commonly used treatments for hemorrhoids.
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A hemorrhoid cream relieves symptoms such as itching, burning, and swelling in the anal area. It is applied topically and is one of the most commonly used treatments for hemorrhoids.
What Is a Hemorrhoid Cream?
A hemorrhoid cream (also called hemorrhoid ointment) is a topical medication or medical product applied directly to the affected area in or around the anus. It is used to relieve typical hemorrhoid symptoms such as itching, burning, pain, and swelling. Depending on the active ingredient, it is available over the counter at pharmacies or may require a prescription.
Indications
Hemorrhoid creams are used for:
- Internal and external hemorrhoids (Grade I and II)
- Itching and burning in the anal area
- Pain and pressure during bowel movements
- Minor bleeding and swelling
- Anal eczema and irritated skin around the anus
Active Ingredients and Mechanism of Action
Hemorrhoid creams may contain various active ingredients that produce different effects:
Local Anesthetics
Ingredients such as lidocaine or benzocaine numb the nerve endings in the anal area, providing short-term relief from pain and itching.
Corticosteroids
Substances such as hydrocortisone have anti-inflammatory properties and help reduce swelling and redness. They should not be used long-term without medical supervision.
Astringents and Protective Agents
Zinc oxide or bismuth compounds protect the irritated mucous membrane, have an astringent (tightening) effect, and support wound healing.
Plant-Based Ingredients
Extracts such as witch hazel (Hamamelis) act as astringents and have anti-inflammatory properties. They are found in many over-the-counter products.
Heparin-Containing Creams
Heparin promotes blood circulation and can help dissolve clots in swollen hemorrhoidal veins.
Application and Dosage
Hemorrhoid creams are typically applied one to three times daily and after bowel movements. The cream is spread thinly over the external anal area or introduced into the anal canal using an included applicator. The area should be cleaned and gently dried before application. The duration of use for corticosteroid-containing creams should generally be limited to a few weeks and monitored by a physician.
Side Effects
Hemorrhoid creams are generally well tolerated. Possible side effects include:
- Local skin irritation or allergic reactions to individual ingredients
- With prolonged use of corticosteroid-containing products: skin atrophy (thinning of the skin)
- Rarely: contact dermatitis in individuals with hypersensitivity to local anesthetics
When to See a Doctor
A hemorrhoid cream relieves symptoms but does not treat the underlying cause. Medical advice should be sought if:
- Rectal bleeding occurs or persists
- Symptoms do not improve after one week
- Severe pain, fever, or discharge occurs
- Higher-grade hemorrhoids (Grade III or IV) are present that require further treatment
References
- Deutsche Gesellschaft für Koloproktologie (DGK) - Guideline on Hemorrhoidal Disease (2019). Available at: www.dgk.de
- Alonso-Coello P. et al. - Hemorrhoids. In: BMJ Clinical Evidence, 2005. PubMed PMID: 16022551.
- Lohsiriwat V. - Hemorrhoids: From basic pathophysiology to clinical management. World J Gastroenterol. 2012;18(17):2009-2017.
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