Are you looking for a solution to get rid of hemorrhoids? You’ve come to the right place. 

Thankfully, there are various over the counter hemorrhoid treatments available that offer quick relief from hemorrhoids symptoms including pain, swelling, itching, and burning. 

You may use any one or a combination of hemorrhoid products including creams, supplements, wipes, oil, and suppositories to get relief. 

Selecting The Right OTC Hemorrhoid Product

Since Over-the-counter medications do not need doctors’ prescriptions to buy at the pharmacy, you need to be assured that they will work for your hemorrhoids before using them.

OTC hemorrhoid products are sold as suppositories, creams, ointments, sprays, wipes, cleansers, and oils. Some of them are sold with applicators with which they are to be applied. Others can simply be applied with a finger.

Different OTC hemorrhoids act in different ways. The table below summarizes the effects of these medications in the treatment of hemorrhoids

When choosing an OTC hemorrhoid medication, you should first determine if your hemorrhoid is internal or external. Not all OTC hemorrhoid products work for both types of piles.

For example, sprays are of no use in the treatment of internal hemorrhoids. Similarly, local anesthetics are only useful for external hemorrhoids which are generally painful.

Some other considerations to take into account include the fact that

• Astringents can bruise the soft tissues of the anal canal when they are used to treat internal hemorrhoids
• Vasoconstrictors can cause high blood pressure, urinary incontinence and also impair blood glucose control. Therefore, OTC hemorrhoid medications containing them should not be used by people suffering from hypertension, heart diseases, diabetes and urinary problems.
• Some OTC products can actually worsen some of the symptoms of hemorrhoids such as irritation, pain and swelling. If you see signs of allergic reactions, you should immediately discontinue the use of the OTC hemorrhoid product.

Here are 6 over the counter hemorrhoid treatments that can effectively alleviate the symptoms associated with internal and external hemorrhoids. 

1. OTC creams for Hemorrhoids 

OTC creams can be used to reduce three main hemorrhoids symptoms: pain, itching, and swelling. The creams are effective in reducing itching and burning sensation.

First, you must clean the area with a mild soap and warm water or you can use medicated wipes. 

Apply hemorrhoids creams in and around the affected area. They moisturize and soothe the inflamed  skin. 

Tucks is one of the most effective over the counter hemorrhoid treatments. It contains powerful hemorrhoids fighting ingredients such pramoxine, mineral oil, and zinc oxide. 

Other popular creams and ointments are Preparation H, Nitroglycerin, Musk, Lidocaine, Anusol HC, and Neo Healar. 

2. Vitamins for Hemorrhoids 

Taking vitamins and supplements can help you reduce pain, itching, and swelling associated with hemorrhoids. 

Vitamin E improves blood circulation and promotes the growth of connective tissues.  It alleviates pain and soothes the inflamed rectal area. 

Vitamin K can help with bleeding hemorrhoids as is known to aid in blood clotting. 

You may consider eating vitamin K rich foods such as cabbage, spinach, soy oil, nuts, liver, and walnuts to avoid the reoccurrence of hemorrhoids. 

Taking Vitamin C supplements can aid in strengthening blood capillaries and veins. 

3. Wipes for Hemorrhoids 

Those who have painful and inflamed hemorrhoids can use medicated wipes instead of toilet paper to soothe the inflamed area and reduce pain. 

Tucks contain astringent and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing pain, swelling, and itching in and around the anal opening. 

Witch Hazel Wipes contain active hemorrhoid fighting ingredients such as calendula, witch hazel, plantain, cocoa butter, burdock, stone, and essential oils. 

Preparation H Wipes can also be used to calm irritated tissues and facilitate easy bowel movements. You can buy hemorrhoid pads & wipes at any pharmacy. 

4. Suppositories for Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoids Suppositories are meant to work on internal hemorrhoids. They are not for topical use. 

Suppositories are available in different forms: vasoconstrictors; analgesics and anaesthetics; and laxatives. 

When inserted into rectum, suppositories melt to release the ingredients. This helps in reducing pain, itching, and swelling associated with internal hemorrhoids. 

5. Hemorrhoid Oil 

Hemorrhoid oils can work like a natural alternative to topical ointments and wipes to lessen irritation associated with this condition. 

Olive oil has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that soothe the affected area. It also revitalizes the skin. 

Sesame seed oil is a natural anti inflammatory agent. It absorbs quickly and moisturizes dry skin in and around the anal opening. It is also rich in Vitamin E. 

Avocado oil is known for its deep tissue absorption and emollient properties. It moisturizes the skin and reduces itching caused by hemorrhoids. 

You can also use chamomile oil or evening primrose oil to reduce inflammation, itching, and pain. 

6. Corticosteroids for Hemorrhoids 

Nearly 60 percent of all topical hemorrhoids preparations available on the market contain corticosteroids. 

They provide quick and sustained relief of hemorrhoids symptoms when combined with local anesthetics. 

Taking a fixed combination of anesthetics and corticosteroids are useful not only in healing hemorrhoids, but also for alleviating symptoms before and after a hemorrhoid surgery. 

Clinical studies have shown that corticosteroids do not have any potential side effects when used for short periods. 

However, long term use of corticosteroids may cause the skin to become thinner. It is recommended that you consult a doctor before using them.