Tips For Choosing the Best Hemorrhoid Cream + Product Recommendations
The itching, burning, and pain caused by hemorrhoids can significantly affect your loved one’s quality of life. Unfortunately, those symptoms often get even worse, if you care for someone with low mobility who needs to sit or lie down for long periods.
Quality hemorrhoid cream makes all the difference, but you need to know what to look for. By considering things like ingredients and your loved one’s lifestyle and needs, you can ensure the hemorrhoid cream you choose checks all the right boxes.
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum and anus. They’re caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum.
Various factors contribute to the formation of hemorrhoids, including:
Straining during bowel movements
Eating a low-fiber diet
Digestive problems, like diarrhea and constipation
Pregnancy
Excessive weight (obesity)
Sitting for long periods.
Hemorrhoids affect about 20% of people, but they’re most common in adults 50 and older.
What is Hemorrhoid Cream?
“Hemorrhoid cream is a topical medication used to alleviate discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. These creams usually contain active ingredients like hydrocortisone or witch hazel, which have anti-inflammatory properties,” explains Dr. Kevin Huffman, DO, a board-certified bariatric surgeon with more than 30 years treating hemorrhoids in overweight patients. “By reducing swelling, itching, and pain associated with hemorrhoids, these properties provide relief for those experiencing discomfort.”
What Should Someone Consider When Looking for Hemorrhoid Cream?
Dr. Huffman, who’s also the founder of Ambari Nutrition, a family-owned business serving the medical diet and weight loss community, says that family caregivers should consider several factors when selecting a hemorrhoid cream, including:
Your Loved One’s Lifestyle
“If your loved one spends long hours sitting, choosing a cream that provides long-lasting relief is crucial,” explains Dr. Huffman. Alternatively, if your loved one is relatively mobile, you might only need a hemorrhoid cream that lasts for an hour or two.
The Number of Hemorrhoids Present
“In cases where multiple hemorrhoids are present, selecting a cream with higher concentrations of active ingredients is important,” Dr. Huffman says. “For example, ingredients like aloe vera and vitamin E can effectively target the affected areas.”
The Symptoms Your Loved One Has
Hemorrhoid symptoms vary. Some people only realize there’s a problem after seeing blood in their stool. But for others, hemorrhoids make daily life unbearable.
“If you’re looking for a product to alleviate symptoms, it can be beneficial to seek out ingredients such as hydrocortisone, which has anti-inflammatory properties. Vasoconstrictors, like phenylephrine, are also helpful, as they reduce swelling. Moreover, natural elements like witch hazel and aloe vera can provide soothing relief and facilitate healing.”
Carewell’s Best Hemorrhoid Cream + Bonus Product
1) Sunmark Hemorrhoid Relief Ointment
Sunmark hemorrhoid relief ointment provides prompt care for hemorrhoid pain, itching, and burning. It features a mix of mineral oil, petrolatum, and phenylephrine that reduces swelling and inflammation.
Key Benefits & Features
Temporarily shrinks hemorrhoidal tissue
Relieves burning
Provides a thin, protective coating for instant relief
This ointment is worth adding to any at-home first-aid kit, as it can be used as a hemorrhoid treatment but also to treat other minor injuries, including insect bites, sunburn, and scrapes.
Hear it from a caregiver
“Excellent price, product, and service. Thanks!”
- Ronald L.
Price: $5.39
Bonus Product: Tucks Medicated Hemorrhoid Relief Cooling Pads
These medicated cooling pads from Tucks provide all-natural hemorrhoid relief with soothing witch hazel. They’re hypoallergenic and dye-free making them safe for use on even the most sensitive skin.
Hear it from a caregiver
“Tucks is very helpful with some of my diarrhea issues. [The pads] are very cool to the touch!”
- Nancy T.
Price: $5.99
How to Use a Medicated Hemorrhoid Pad
Before using, wash your loved one’s anus with soap and warm water. Pat dry and remove the Tucks cooling pad from its package. Apply externally to your loved one’s hemorrhoids up to six times daily. After application, toss the pad, and wash your hands.
Do THIS Before Using a Hemorrhoid Cream or Hemorrhoid Pads
“Before using hemorrhoid products on yourself or a loved one, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you or your loved one have any specific medical conditions or allergies. The same applies if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding,” Dr. Huffman says.
Sometimes, over-the-counter products aren’t effective. In these instances, prescription hemorrhoid creams, like Analpram HC and Pramasone, might be necessary to provide lasting relief.
Is There Anything Else Caregivers Should Know About Hemorrhoid Cream?
Dr. Huffman says that proper hygiene is crucial when using hemorrhoid cream. “[Take steps] to keep your loved one’s anal area clean and dry. Following the provided instructions is essential for achieving effective relief.” If your loved one uses incontinence products, it also reduces the risk of skin irritation, diaper rash, and fungal infections.
Have Other Questions? We’re Here to Help!
Choosing a hemorrhoid cream is a big decision. It’s important to relieve your loved one’s symptoms. But if they have sensitive skin or wear incontinence products, you might worry that the wrong ointment will make things worse.
Our Care Specialists work with family caregivers daily to answer questions and make product recommendations. We’d love to help! Call (800) 696-CARE or send an email to support@carewell.com.
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