Published: 27th January, 2023
Haemorrhoids (also known as piles) are lumps found inside and around your anus. They are swollen veins that can develop inside the rectum (internal haemorrhoids), or under the skin around the anus (external haemorrhoids).
Regardless of the cause, haemorrhoids can be an issue that many people feel self-conscious about. Fortunately, there are a few effective options for tackling haemorrhoids, including home treatments and lifestyle changes.
Many adults will experience haemorrhoids from time to time, however, the cause is often unknown. Haemorrhoids may develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum, which could be due to the following:
Symptoms of haemorrhoids include:
Ingredients to look out for that can help treat haemorrhoids include:
At Weldricks, we sell a range of products to help you treat haemorrhoid conditions.
Here are some of our best haemorrhoid creams and treatments:
Anusol Cream is a medicine that relieves the pain, swelling, and irritation of internal and external haemorrhoids. It includes ingredients such as zinc oxide, balsam peru, and bismuth oxide. Anusol Cream contains a vanishing base, which means it's rapidly absorbed and can be used for both internal and external haemorrhoids.
Germoloids Cream contains a local anaesthetic, making it a very effective treatment for haemorrhoids. The cream base acts as an emollient to help the passing of stools and reduce straining during bowel movement.
Preparation H Clear Gel offers an instant cooling effect on dry, itchy skin around the anus. The formula is non-greasy and easy to apply. The gel contains witch hazel, which is scientifically proven to hydrate and moisturise dry and itchy skin.
Care Haemorrhoid Relief Ointment contains zinc oxide, which is an antiseptic and has soothing and protective properties. Easy to use, it will help to relieve pain and swelling associated with haemorrhoids.
The Fybogel orange high-fibre drink is an easy and convenient way to gently relieve constipation. It works naturally with your body to treat it without straining or discomfort and can help those with haemorrhoids as well as other conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome and ulcerative colitis.
Suppositories are for use inside the anus and will help to soothe itching and shrink haemorrhoids. The suppositories contain two active substances: zinc oxide and lidocaine.
The best approach is to not rely too heavily on any one treatment, but mix and match as needed, to get the symptom relief you need.
In general, ointments add moisture to the skin and stay on the surface longer. So if you need extra hydration and skin protection, you may want to opt for an ointment. If you want something that absorbs more quickly into the skin and doesn't leave residue behind, go for a cream instead.
Each product will be different, so make sure you read the instructions carefully before use. Before applying the cream or treatment, always ensure the area is clean and dry. You should also wash your hands thoroughly with soap before application.
Application of treatment will often differ depending on whether you have internal or external piles. When using the Anusol Cream and the Germoloid Cream, you should simply apply the cream to the affected area if you have external piles. If you have internal piles, you will need to insert the nozzle into your anus and squeeze gently.
There are steps you can take to reduce the chance of getting haemorrhoids in the first place. Some tips include:
You should see your GP if:
Seek emergency care if your temperature is very high, you feel hot and shivery, or you have pus leaking from your haemorrhoids.
We’ve suggested our best haemorrhoid creams and treatments, so take a look and see which ones might best suit your needs. Alongside our haemorrhoid care, you can also find treatments for a range of other conditions, including constipation and diarrhoea.