Hemorrhoids & Piles

Haemorrhoid creams, ointments and suppositories are all really effective treatments when you’re suffering from pain, discomfort and itchiness caused by piles. We’ve put together some answers to your most commonly asked questions about haemorrhoids. Just click “read more” to discover more.

What are the best treatments for haemorrhoids?

Creams and ointments

A haemorrhoid cream or ointment can provide effective relief for both internal or external piles (haemorrhoids). Internal piles are ones that are inside your bottom (anus) and external ones can be found outside of it. Creams and ointments will relieve discomfort, shrink the pile and soothe any itchiness you may have. You’ll use the ointment or cream for haemorrhoids differently depending on what sort of piles you have.

Suppositories

Okay, you might not like the thought of suppositories (and they can cause a few moments of discomfort), but haemorrhoid suppositories are a great solution to treat the unpleasant symptoms caused by internal piles. Some contain a local anaesthetic to relieve pain and discomfort, too. They’re all designed to shrink your piles over time and soothe itchiness, which is what you really want.

Soothing wipes

Wipes can be used to soothe and cleanse your bum and external piles (haemorrhoids) after you’ve been to the toilet. They can reduce irritation caused by haemorrhoids and provide temporary relief from burning and itching. They’re easy to use and a convenient solution to try before you start applying a haemorrhoid cream.

What are the best brands for haemorrhoid relief?

Anusol

Anusol has a range of products, including haemorrhoid cream, ointments and piles tablets such as suppositories, to give you relief from the symptoms of piles. Anusol Plus HC suppositories reduce inflammation, shrink piles, relieve discomfort and soothe itchiness. The haemorrhoid cream and ointments are usually used to shrink external piles and also help to relieve unpleasant symptoms like itchiness. You should always chat with a pharmacist before using a suppository. We always have one on hand to offer you expert advice.

Germoloids

Germaloids is a well-known medication that helps to relieve symptoms of piles. They have a haemorrhoid cream and suppository in their range that both have a local anaesthetic in them to numb the pain you’ll sometimes feel when you’ve got piles. Both the cream and suppository shrink haemorrhoids, soothe itchiness and protect sensitive, sore skin against infections. Chat to our pharmacist for confidential, expert advice before using a suppository.

Anodesyn

Anodesyn ointment has a double action that helps to relieve pain and irritation caused by external haemorrhoids and also heal the affected area. It’s easy to use: just wash the affected area with warm water, gently dry it, then apply the ointment with your finger, or a piece of gauze or lint. If your symptoms haven’t improved in a week after using Anodesyn ointment, you should contact your GP. If you’re not sure if this is the right product for you, get in touch with our pharmacist – they’ll be happy to help with confidential, expert advice.

Do haemorrhoid creams really work?

The short answer is, yes, they do. Different haemorrhoid creams have different active ingredients that help to relieve discomfort and also shrink piles. Some of them contain hydrocortisone that works by calming your immune system, which reduces inflammation and helps to relieve pain and itching. Other products may contain active ingredients like zinc oxide or lidocaine hydrochloride to provide relief and shrink piles.

What shrinks haemorrhoids fast?

Haemorrhoids take time to shrink, even when you use haemorrhoid suppositories or creams. There’s no quick fix. However, a product like Anusol HC Plus contains hydrocortisone, which will shrink them a bit faster than some other products. So give it a try!

How to prevent haemorrhoids

There are some easy ways for you to prevent piles. Here’s some tips: eat plenty of high-fibre foods like fresh fruit and vegetables, drink lots of fluids, and don’t strain or push too hard when you’re on the toilet. Use the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to go, make exercise a part of your lifestyle and try to avoid long periods of sitting.