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What is Hemorrhoid Ointment?
Hemorrhoids, also referred to as emerods or piles, are caused by the inflammation and swelling of veins near the rectum area. These small bumps are quite painful, though they can be easily treated in most cases. There are numerous types of treatments available that will effectively reduce the pain caused by hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoid ointment is a popular type of topical treatment that may help to relieve certain hemorrhoid complications.
Corticosteroid creams that are purchased over-the-counter can ease pain and itching. Any hemorrhoid ointment that contains lidocaine, a local anesthetic, will help any burning sensation to dissipate. Nearly any hemorrhoid ointment that contains this medicinal ingredient will work temporarily, though there are other things that can be done to help those suffering from hemorrhoid pain.
Natural remedies for hemorrhoids prove to be immensely popular around the globe. In particular, witch hazel, when applied with a cotton ball to the affected area, has been known to reduce inflammation. In addition, various surgical treatments may prove effective when home remedies do not work. Surgical treatments include the application of heat through infrared coagulation, rubber band ligation, and surgical hemorrhoidectomy.
Aside from topical and surgical treatments, there are other things that can be done to relieve hemorrhoid pain. Cotton, rather than synthetic, underpants should be worn; toilet paper that contains perfumes and dyes should be avoided; and the anal area should not be scratched. If any pain or itching within the rectum area is noticed, a medical doctor should be contacted right away. Serious complications can arise if hemorrhoids are not treated immediately.
Hemorrhoids are caused by any amount of increased pressure within the veins that surround the rectal area. Frequently, pregnant women suffer from hemorrhoids due to immense anal pressure. In addition, hemorrhoids can be caused by constipation, sitting for long periods of time, anal infections, and liver cirrhosis. No matter what the cause of hemorrhoids may be, most people find that an effective hemorrhoid ointment is the best way to quickly reduce pain.
Topical treatments can be purchased at a local drugstore or on the Internet. Some physicians may also prescribe a hemorrhoid ointment that contains stronger medicinal ingredients than average over-the-counter ointments. All creams should be used as indicated. While it has become common practice to use hemorrhoid ointment in order to relieve under eye puffiness, this is not recommended since eye infections can occur as a result.
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![Hemorrhoid ointments can often help relieve itching and swelling.]()
By: TingaHemorrhoid ointments can often help relieve itching and swelling. -
![The witch hazel plant provides the astringent commonly used to cleanse and disinfect hemorrhoids.]()
By: dianamowerThe witch hazel plant provides the astringent commonly used to cleanse and disinfect hemorrhoids. -
![Cotton balls may be helpful when applying hemorrhoid ointment.]()
By: yotrakbutdaCotton balls may be helpful when applying hemorrhoid ointment. -
![Hemorrhoids are inflamed veins near the rectum area.]()
By: Alexandr MitiucHemorrhoids are inflamed veins near the rectum area. -
![An inflatable doughnut pillow may be used to bring relief to hemorrhoid sufferers.]()
By: Kitch BainAn inflatable doughnut pillow may be used to bring relief to hemorrhoid sufferers.
Discussion Comments
The options for hemorrhoid ointments have increased in the past years. Before, the pharmacy carried two or three brands of hemorrhoid ointment at most and they all had the same ingredients. Now, the best hemorrhoid ointments have natural ingredients in them like aloe vera and witch hazel. I think these work much better because of the beneficial properties of these natural remedies. I use a hemorrhoid ointment with witch hazel as well as witch hazel wipes when I have hemorrhoids. I heal very quickly.
@ddljohn-- Hemorrhoid ointments are very effective at healing hemorrhoids and three days is usually enough for most people to experience relief. However, if you are still constipate and continue to strain during bowel movements, then the ointment will not be able to do its job. Every time you strain on the bathroom, you are renewing the injury. So in addition to using the hemorrhoid ointment, you need to treat your constipation by eating lots of fiber rich foods. If there is another reason for your constipation and if things are getting worse, please see your doctor. Bleeding from hemorrhoid is common but if it’s severe, it requires treatment by a doctor.
I’m suffering from hemorrhoids and I bought an ointment for hemorrhoids from the pharmacy. I’ve been using it for three days but there is no improvement. I still have a lot of pain and I also experience bleeding sometimes.
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