Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins located in the lower rectum and anus that cause significant discomfort, including pain, itching, and burning. Many people turn to over-the-counter topical treatments for relief. Lidocaine, a local anesthetic, is a widely used and effective ingredient in these products, offering targeted management for acute hemorrhoid symptoms. It is recognized as a safe and effective short-term solution for managing the associated pain and itching.
How Lidocaine Provides Targeted Relief
Lidocaine is an amide-type local anesthetic that works by temporarily blocking nerve signals in the area where it is applied. When absorbed into the tissues, it stabilizes the nerve cell membrane, preventing the conduction of nerve impulses to the brain. This action effectively stops the perception of pain and itching sensations caused by the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue.
The temporary numbing effect typically begins quickly, often within an hour of application, providing fast relief from acute discomfort. Lidocaine is available in various over-the-counter formulations, including creams, gels, ointments, and sometimes suppositories for hemorrhoidal treatment. The concentrations of lidocaine in these products are commonly 4% or 5%, offering a potent local anesthetic effect for symptomatic management.
Safe Application and Usage Guidelines
Before applying any lidocaine product, first clean the affected area gently with mild soap and water, then pat it completely dry. This preparation helps ensure the medication works effectively and minimizes irritation risk. Apply only a small amount of the cream or gel—enough to form a thin film—to the external perianal region where the pain and itching are felt.
For products designed for external use, direct application inside the rectum is not recommended. If the product includes an applicator or is a suppository, follow the specific package instructions for internal use. The frequency of application should be limited, typically to no more than three to four times a day, though some labeling may permit up to six times daily.
It is important to remember that lidocaine is intended for short-term symptomatic relief, not as a permanent cure for hemorrhoids. Most manufacturers and healthcare professionals advise limiting the use of these topical treatments to a maximum of seven consecutive days. Using the product for longer than this period without medical guidance can increase the risk of side effects or mask symptoms of a more serious condition. Always wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after each application to prevent contamination.
When to Stop Treatment and Consult a Doctor
While generally safe for temporary use, discontinue the application of lidocaine and seek medical advice if symptoms fail to improve. Do not apply the product to severe open wounds, deeply broken skin, or any area showing signs of infection. Applying to broken skin can increase the absorption of lidocaine into the bloodstream. Increased systemic absorption can potentially lead to side effects, such as dizziness or light-headedness, though this is uncommon with proper topical use.
Watch for signs of a local adverse reaction, such as increased redness, swelling, burning, a rash, or worsening irritation at the application site. Immediate medical consultation is necessary if you experience persistent or significant rectal bleeding, if the pain worsens, or if symptoms have not resolved after the recommended seven-day treatment period. Persistent symptoms may indicate that the issue is not hemorrhoids or that the condition requires a different type of medical intervention.