Anusol cream remains a helpful topical treatment for hemorrhoids. It contains a combination of chemicals and ingredients that work to shrink swollen veins, ease itchiness, and even alleviate the annoying pain associated with hemorrhoids.
However, you should not use Anusol cream for hemorrhoids blindly. Topical creams heal many of the immediate hemorrhoidal symptoms, but they may also cause unpleasant side effects if misused or without proper knowledge of the contents.
From my experience, Anusol cream continues to work well in treating moderate symptoms if used correctly. Here’s all that you need to know!
What is Anusol, and how does it work for hemorrhoids?
Anusol cream is an over-the-counter medication meant to treat hemorrhoids (external and internal). As a topical cream, you can apply it directly to the anal area, making it a convenient medication. And the combination of ingredients works together to reduce the harsh symptoms often associated with hemorrhoids.
It’s also a popular relief cream for other ano-rectal issues like anal fissures. But its composition of chemicals makes it suitable only for adults. So, you should not use this cream on children or under-aged patients.
The cream’s ingredients each have a specific benefit for fighting hemorrhoidal discomfort.
For instance, zinc oxide serves as a critical astringent that shrinks the tissues temporarily and reduces hemorrhoidal inflammation. Meanwhile, Balsam Peru in the cream is an anti-microbial agent and antiseptic. So, it protects the affected area from further infection and aggravation.
How do you use Anusol cream for hemorrhoids?
Your medical doctor or local pharmacist should provide instructions on properly applying the cream.
In most cases, the following steps should work for the simple application of the cream.
- Step 1: Wash your hands to ensure they’re clean and free of dust and dirt.
- Step 2: Clean and wipe the affected area. You can use a medicated wipe to cleanse your bottom. Remember to dab it dry afterward.
- Step 3: Press the Anusol tube and squeeze out a pea-sized portion of the cream on one of your fingertips.
- Step 4: Apply the cream gently and slowly on the anal area. Ensure that you spread the cream on all the affected areas.
- Step 5: Avoid moving excessively for a few minutes to let the cream settle in and take action.
Applying Anusol cream a few times daily is ideal for most hemorrhoidal cases. However, consult your doctor on dosage and how frequently to use it. Dosage and correct use become even more critical if you use other hemorrhoidal treatments and ointments in addition to Anusol.
Topical creams for hemorrhoids do not require more than a week’s use in most instances. Remember that excessive use may lead to more harm than good.
What are the potential side effects of using Anusol cream for hemorrhoids?
Like any other medication, Anusol cream may react negatively in some people. Reasons for side effects can include allergies, existing medical conditions, or even normal biological instances like pregnancy.
Based on my own experience and observation with other patients, any of these ill effects may arise from your body’s reaction to Anusol cream.
- Anusol cream may increase the dryness in the affected area, leaving it itchier than before.
- Patients with sensitive skin and tissue may develop allergic reactions to the ointment. The effects may include swelling, redness, or moderate pain.
- Anusol cream contains strong chemicals that may irritate the skin. Some people develop rashes or experience more discomfort after using the cream.
- Severe cases of hemorrhoids may lead to bleeding when exposed to Anusol cream. Although bleeding from Anusol is rare, you should stop the application immediately if it develops.
- The cream comes with anti-bacterial compounds. However, I’ve known cases where infections increased with using Anusol cream.
- Individuals with existing hormonal issues may develop hormonal imbalances from reactions to Anusol cream. Like bleeding, however, these cases remain extremely rare.
You should stop using Anusol cream if you develop any of these side effects. Although rare, mild yet ill effects may snowball into more severe problems if you continue using the same medication.
Bring these issues to your doctor’s notice immediately. And discuss if shifting to another medication will suit you better.
Are there any alternative treatments for hemorrhoids besides Anusol cream?
Yes. You can get easy pharmaceutical access to a wide variety of medical alternatives when it comes to treating hemorrhoids with Anusol cream. The ointment is a topical cream meant to alleviate symptoms, reduce swelling, and soothe pain or discomfort. So, many other medications that serve these purposes count as alternatives and optional solutions for hemorrhoids.
I’ll suggest several home remedies and OTC medications that can substitute Anusol cream if you find it unsuitable. However, remember to take medical consultation before jumping into any of these alternatives.
- Preparation H is a common solution for immediate relief of hemorrhoidal symptoms.
- Hydrocortisone cream is another alternative that reduces swelling and offers relief.
- Calmoseptine is another popular ointment that offers similar benefits to Anusol and other OTC hemorrhoidal products.
- Witch hazel remains a tried and true solution for treating moderate hemorrhoidal symptoms.
- Sitz baths and Epsom salt baths remain easy remedies you can prepare at home for relief and soothing effects.
What are the differences between the different types of Anusol products?
Anusol products typically come in form types – cream, ointment, suppository, and wipes. Learn what each product does to see how they differ from each other.
Anusol Cream
The cream is the most common Anusol product people use. It works for internal and external hemorrhoids. The active ingredients include zinc oxide, Balsam Peru, and bismuth oxide. They serve as agents that reduce swelling, heal pain, and cut down itchiness.
Anusol Ointment
The ointment has similar ingredients as the cream. But the texture and consistency feel different on your skin. As a cooler and softer alternative, it’s a good solution for people with dry skin suffering from hemorrhoids.
Anusol Suppositories
The suppositories are solutions that go into the rectum and slowly dissipate. This medication serves as a good supplement to the Anusol creams and ointments.
Anusol Hygiene Wipes
Anusol wipes are special medical wipes designed to soothe and cleanse your hemorrhoids and the affected area. They’re also a good alternative to ordinary toilet paper, which can bruise and aggravate hemorrhoids.
Conclusion
Anusol cream is a go-to medication for many hemorrhoidal patients thanks to its anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and overall relieving qualities. However, it may also come with side effects in some people.
Consider alternatives and home remedies to supplement any hemorrhoidal treatment you go through, and always consult a medical professional before diving into any prescription.