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Over-the-Counter Hemorrhoid Treatments

Hemorrhoids are an affliction that is common among both men and women. There are two types of hemorrhoids, external and internal. External hemorrhoids are found on the outside of a person's anus and can be painful, itchy and may bleed. Internal ones may also bleed, but usually do not cause discomfort. There are many over-the-counter treatments for hemorrhoids that will clear them up quickly.

  1. Anesthetics

    • Using a product that contains a local anesthetic can help clear up hemorrhoids. These products will relieve the pain and burning sensations that are associated with this condition. This type of medication works by numbing the area around the anal opening and the perineum, effectively numbing the pain of the hemorrhoid itself.

      Products that can be purchased over the counter include a variety of agents that help numb the area. This includes benzocaine, benzyl alcohol, lidocaine and dyclonine.

    Protectants

    • Protectants can be used as an over-the-counter remedy for hemorrhoids by helping form a protective layer on the skin. Many times, feces and urine can irritate hemorrhoids, causing even more pain and discomfort. A protectant will help reduce the burning and other irritation caused when a hemorrhoid has developed. Many OTC protectants can be used, such as cocoa butter, products that contain glycerin, lanolin and mineral oil. Products that contain zinc oxide, such as calamine lotion, may also be used to protect the area.

    Antiseptics

    • An antiseptic is an OTC medicine that can be used to treat hemorrhoids by inhibiting the growing of bacteria around the area. Examples of antiseptics would include products that contain one of the following ingredients: Boric acid, Phenol and Benzethonium chloride.

    Astringents

    • An astringent can be used to clear up hemorrhoids, as these agents cause the clumping of the cells around the anal area and in the lining of the anus itself. This then causes the skin to become dry, which can reduce the amount of pain and burning the hemorrhoids are causing. Astringent agents can be bought over the counter, and include calamine lotion, witch hazel and zinc oxide.

    Warnings

    • As with any medication, caution should be exercised when using certain products. As the anal cavity is highly sensitive, some products may cause worse irritation, burning or itching. Some may be allergic to the ingredients in some over-the-counter medications. If this occurs, the product should be discontinued immediately. For hemorrhoids that do not clear up or cause intense bleeding and pain, consulting a doctor is the next step.

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