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About hemorrhoids ointment

Types

  • Analgesic Ointments

    One of the most common and popular kinds of hemorrhoid creams and ointments is analgesic ointments. These ointments contain active ingredients such as benzyl alcohol and lidocaine, which work by providing numbness in the area where they are applied. Therefore, they are mostly used by people who want to relieve the pain associated with hemorrhoids temporarily.

  • Astringent Ointments

    These types of ointments help to reduce swelling and can also help to shrink hemorrhoids and are considered piles ointment in many instances. They contain active ingredients like witch hazel and zinc oxide that can also promote tissue healing. Astringent ointments are better applied to external hemorrhoids for better and faster results and are often combined with other elements to enhance their astringent properties.

  • Corticosteroid Ointments

    A corticosteroid or steroid ointment for piles is another type of hemorrhoids ointment. These types of ointments contain steroid hormones like hydrocortisone, which helps to reduce inflammation and swelling in the affected areas. It is better suitable for those who have advanced or painful hemorrhoids and want to reduce itching and irritation.

  • Moisturizing Ointments

    Moisturizing hemorrhoids ointments contain ingredients like petroleum jelly, mineral oil, and lanolin, soothing and keeping the skin hydrated. These ointments are especially helpful for those who want to avoid more discomfort caused by dry or cracked skin around the anus, which may be associated with hemorrhoids. They do not directly target the symptoms of hemorrhoids but provide general comfort and help prevent further skin damage.

  • Homeopathic Ointments

    They are made using natural ingredients like arnica, hamamelis (witch hazel), and calendula to treat hemorrhoids without using conventional medicine. Homeopathic ointments are better for those who prefer a more natural approach to healthcare. They provide gradual relief from symptoms like pain, swelling, and itching. These ointments are usually less aggressive than conventional piles ointments and may take longer to provide relief, although they are widely believed to help heal tissues and reduce recurrences.

Ingredients

  • Benzocaine

    This is one of the active ingredients that may be present in the ointment for piles. It is a local anesthetic that helps relieve pain and discomfort by blocking nerve signals in the area where it is applied. This provides temporary relief from the pain associated with hemorrhoids and is commonly found in over-the-counter medications.

  • Lidocaine

    Like benzocaine, lidocaine is also a local anesthetic that is sometimes used as a hemorrhoid ointment. It acts rapidly, within minutes of application, to numb the area and alleviate itching and irritation. Hemorrhoids ointment containing this element is meant to be applied to external hemorrhoids while avoiding sensitive areas since it is very potent.

  • Zinc Oxide

    Merely an inert and antimicrobial agent, zinc oxide is found in several hemorrhoids ointments and creams, especially those containing natural ingredients. It also contains astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that work very effectively to reduce inflammation and irritation. By forming a protective layer over the skin, it helps in faster healing of damaged tissues and reduces moisture, which is helpful in soothing and healing external hemorrhoids.

  • Witch Hazel

    This is a natural remedy commonly used to treat a variety of ailments. It's particularly known for its use in homeopathic ointments for hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is derived from the bark and leaves of the witch hazel shrub (Hamamelis virginiana) and contains tannins, which are thought to be responsible for its astringent properties. It is suitable for people looking for natural products because it is an effective way of controlling the swelling, itching, and bleeding of hemorrhoids.

  • Petroleum Jelly

    Petroleum jelly is a common ingredient in many hemorrhoids ointments due to its moisturizing and protective properties. It doesn’t contain any healing ingredients but focuses more on preventing further irritation and keeping the affected area moist.

How to Use

The following are general steps to follow when using hemorrhoid ointment:

  • Clean the Area

    Properly cleaning the anal area before applying the ointment is important in the piles treatment process. Gently cleanse the area with warm, soapy water to remove any debris. Avoid harsh soaps that can irritate the skin further. Pat the area dry with a soft cloth. It’s important to be thorough but gentle, especially if there is swelling or irritation. Further, infection can be prevented through proper cleaning.

  • Application Technique

    This mainly depends on whether the hemorrhoid is external or internal. For external hemorrhoids, the ointment should be directly applied to the affected area. Use clean hands to apply a small amount of ointment. Gently massage it into the hemorrhoid, taking care not to apply too much pressure. For internal hemorrhoids, use a gentle hemorrhoid ointment applicator. Apply the ointment to the applicator tip. Carefully insert the tip into the rectum. Just apply a reasonable quantity of ointment and do not go overboard in any circumstances.

  • Frequency of Use

    Follow the instructions on the product label or the advice of a healthcare professional as regards the frequency. Most hemorrhoid ointments can be applied up to three to four times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms. At times, it should be applied after each bowel movement to help relieve irritation caused by wiping or being in a confined position for long. It's also important to avoid overuse of products containing steroids, as long-term use can lead to skin thinning and other side effects.

  • Wash Hands After Application

    After applying the ointment, one should wash their hands thoroughly to avoid spreading the product to other areas or contaminating surfaces. In addition, it is also advised not to touch eyes or other sensitive areas of the body after applying the ointment, especially if it contains medicinal ingredients.

  • Store Properly

    It's important to store hemorrhoid ointments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Depending on the product, the shelf life may vary; therefore, one has to check on expiration dates and dispose of the product when it's expired. Ointments used for rectal application should be sealed properly and may be required to be kept away from children or anyone who is not meant to use them.

Benefits

  • Sooting Discomfort

    The main purpose of using an ointment for hemorrhoids is to relieve the pain, irritation, and discomfort most people experience. Most of these ointments contain analgesic elements or come with a soothing property like aloe vera or witch hazel that helps to calm the irritated area and reduce pain.

  • Reduction of Itching

    Exposure of hemorrhoids to irritants like stool or toilet paper can lead to a lot of itching. Antipruritic agents such as phenylephrine and lidocaine work effectively to reduce this itching. Furthermore, the application of hemorrhoid ointment also gives a cooling effect, which minimizes the urge to itch.

  • Less Bleeding

    A lot of bleeding occurs when internal hemorrhoids are irritated or when bowel movements are painful. Some piles creams contain astringent components such as zinc oxide and witch hazel, which aid in tightening and toning the blood vessels in the rectum. This helps to reduce bleeding by minimizing the swelling and irritation of the hemorrhoids.

  • Reduced Swelling

    Swelling is one of the most distressing results of hemorrhoids, as it leads to firmer discomfort and often more pain. Certain ointments contain vasoconstrictor components such as phenylephrine, which are understood to reduce the swelling by temporarily tightening the blood vessels around the hemorrhoids. This helps reduce the size of external hemorrhoids and reduces the discomfort associated internal ones.

  • Healing Time

    In most cases, hemorrhoids resolve themselves over time as the swelling reduces and the associated bleeding stops. However, using an ointment can help speed up the healing process of hemorrhoids. Antiinflammatory and soothing agents combined with moisturizing elements help to reduce irritation.

Precautions

  • Contamination

    If the packaging or the applicator tip comes into contact with dirty hands or any other surface that may harbor bacteria or other germs, these could be transferred to the product and cause infection. Therefore, wash the hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the ointment, as well as before touching the tube or jar, both to avoid contamination and to ensure efficacy.

  • Prolonged Use

    Hemorrhoid ointments can bring relief very fast, most especially those that contain corticosteroids. These ointments should not be used for more than a week without professional advice because long-term use of steroidal ointments can cause skin thinning and other side effects. This is so as to avoid complications like skin atrophy or telangiectasia.

  • Assessing Symptoms

    While ointments for hemorrhoids can relieve a lot of discomforts, they do not address the underlying cause of the condition. If symptoms persist or worsen, don't confuse the temporary relief with a solution. Further, it can lead to complications, such as thrombosed hemorrhoids or even infections of other types, if one ignores seeking medical help when it is necessary.

  • Avoiding Certain Areas

    Some ingredients in hemorrhoids ointment may not be safe for use on mucous membranes or other sensitive areas of the body. For instance, products containing strong antipodean elements like benzocaine and lidocaine should not be applied inside the anus or vagina, nor should they be given to children without advice.

  • Interactions with Medications

    A few over-the-counter piles creams contain active components like phenylephrine, which can interact with other forms of medication, such as antidepressants or high blood pressure medications. People on prescription medication or those with underlying medical conditions like heart disease or diabetes should talk to a doctor before using any new hemorrhoid products.

Q & A

Q1: What is hemorrhoids ointment?

A1: The piles ointment is designed to relieve the discomfort, itching, and swelling of hemorrhoids. They are usually designed to be applied on the outside of the rectum but can also be inserted in some cases depending on the type of the product and how it is intended to be used.

Q2: Does hemorrhoid cream work quickly?

A2: The speed at which hemorrhoid cream works will depend on the type of cream a person is using and the severity of their condition. While the topical medication provides fast relief of symptoms, healing takes longer.

Q3: Can one get piles cream over-the-counter?

A3: Hemorrhoid creams and ointments are frequently available over-the-counter from pharmacies and drug stores but are not a prescription medication. Stronger medications such as corticosteroid ointments are available over-the-counter.

Q4: What are the signs of hemorrhoids?

A4: Common signs of hemorrhoids include the abnormal swelling and protrusion of the anus, with or without pain. In some rare cases, a blood clot may form in the swollen vein, leading to a lump that is very painful.