Anal Itch? Zinc Might Help

Hemorrhoids are painful, but there are ways to get rid of hemorrhoids effectively. In most cases, the treatment includes a combination of lifestyle changes and hemorrhoid products. 

Though there are several over-the-counter suppositories and medications available, some people prefer using zinc for hemorrhoids. 

Zinc oxide is a chemical compound, which is almost insoluble in water but soluble in alkalies or acids. It is an effective anal itching remedy.

How Does It Work? 

Zinc oxide has several health benefits.

It acts as a barrier to protect the skin from irritation and inflammation. 

Apart from this, it can also reduce itching. Zinc oxide works well with anal fissures as well.

Zinc oxide acts as a coat on the affected area. It reduces irritation and burning sensations in and around the anal area. 

Directions For Use: 

Clean the affected area well before applying the medication.

Use a clean cotton ball to apply the zinc oxide cream in and around the rectal region. 

Take only the required amount of medication and spread it evenly over the affected area.

Wash your hands properly after application of the medicine. 

Remember that this is only for external use.

You should not apply zinc oxide cream inside the rectum to heal internal hemorrhoids. 

You must not allow the medication to get into your eyes, nose or mouth. If this happens by mistake, call your doctor immediately. 

If you have enlarged hemorrhoids then you must consider consulting with a doctor or healthcare practitioner before using zinc oxide. 

Is It Safe During Pregnancy? 

Pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers must not use zinc oxide cream to heal hemorrhoids. 

If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, contact your doctor before taking the medication. 

What Are The Side Effects? 

Though zinc oxide does not have any serious side effects, some people may have allergic reactions to the medication.

Some side effects may include: 

Skin irritation, rashes, itching (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), swelling, severe dizziness, and difficulty breathing. This is not a complete list of side effects. 

If you notice any of the above-mentioned symptoms after the treatment sessions, discontinue using zinc for hemorrhoids and call a doctor immediately. 

Are There Any Drug Interactions? 

When taken orally, zinc oxide may interact with some medications. You must avoid taking medicines containing zinc oxide if you are also on cisplatin for chemotherapy. 

When taken with other medications such as penicillamine, tetracyclines, and fluoroquinolones, Zinc oxide can lower their capacity of being absorbed into the bloodstream.  

Other treatments to consider:

Avatrol works like a natural anesthetic by lubricating the anal area to facilitate easy bowel movements.

It also promotes normal blood circulation to heal the root cause of hemorrhoids. 

Active ingredients include Zinc Oxide, Vitamin E, L-Arginine, Horse Chestnut, Oat Straw, and Mullein.

For more information on hemorrhoids treatments, read our article on Vitamin E for Hemorrhoids and Hemorrhoids Vitamins & Supplements.