Hemorrhoids are a common condition involving swollen veins in the rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. Over-the-counter solutions, such as topical creams, are frequently sought to manage the discomfort and other symptoms. This article explores how these creams work to provide relief and potentially reduce bleeding.
How Hemorrhoid Creams Provide Relief
Hemorrhoid creams address symptoms like inflammation, swelling, irritation, and discomfort. Their active ingredients soothe affected tissues, reducing inflammation and swelling. This alleviates pressure on delicate blood vessels within the hemorrhoids, which reduces the likelihood of rupture and bleeding. The creams create a more stable environment for the hemorrhoidal tissue, reducing friction and irritation that can exacerbate bleeding. While creams do not directly “stop” bleeding, they treat the underlying conditions, allowing the body’s natural healing processes to proceed more effectively.
Common Hemorrhoid Cream Ingredients and Their Actions
Many hemorrhoid creams contain vasoconstrictors, such as phenylephrine, which constrict blood vessels. This action reduces the size of the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue, thereby decreasing swelling and the potential for bleeding.
Corticosteroids, like hydrocortisone, are anti-inflammatory agents. They reduce swelling and itching in the affected area, which indirectly helps with bleeding by calming irritated tissues and reducing pressure. This anti-inflammatory effect promotes a more stable environment for blood vessels.
Local anesthetics, including lidocaine and pramoxine, numb the affected area, providing relief from pain. By reducing pain, these ingredients can prevent further straining or irritation from physical activity or bowel movements, which might otherwise worsen bleeding.
Protectants and astringents, such as zinc oxide and witch hazel, form a protective barrier over the irritated skin. Witch hazel also acts as an astringent, helping to dry out the tissue and reduce irritation, which can contribute to the cessation of bleeding. These ingredients help shield the delicate tissues from further damage, promoting a more stable environment for healing.
When to Consult a Doctor for Bleeding Hemorrhoids
While hemorrhoid creams can offer symptom relief, persistent or significant bleeding always warrants medical evaluation. Consult a healthcare professional if you experience heavy, continuous, or increasing bleeding. This could indicate a more serious underlying issue beyond typical hemorrhoidal irritation.
Seek immediate medical attention if bleeding is accompanied by severe pain, dizziness, or fainting, as these may be signs of significant blood loss. The presence of dark red or black stools, known as melena, is also a serious warning sign, suggesting bleeding higher in the digestive tract that requires prompt investigation. If bleeding shows no improvement after about a week of consistent over-the-counter treatment, medical consultation is advised. Furthermore, new bleeding in individuals over 40-50 years of age, especially those with a history of colon issues, should always be evaluated by a doctor to rule out more serious conditions.