Medical professionals may recommend Betamethasone for hemorrhoids and anal itching when symptoms increase. Betamethasone is a medication that helps fight inflammation and remains a popular solution for hemorrhoidal flare-ups.
However, incorrect use of Betamethasone may lead to unwanted side effects that worsen your condition. And correct usage depends on the type of Betamethasone you use (cream, gel, etc.)
Discover all there is to know about Betamethasone and how it helps your hemorrhoidal troubles.
What is Betamethasone, and how does it work for hemorrhoids and anal itching?
Betamethasone is an anti-inflammatory medication that clinical professionals advise for the treatment of hemorrhoids and cases of swollen tissues. In most areas, it’s a prescription medication that requires a qualified doctor’s recommendation.
Betamethasone is, essentially, a corticosteroid. Corticosteroids are artificially made hormones that fight inflammation. They help reduce swollen tissues caused by different medical conditions. But overuse may lead to unpleasant side effects.
When used correctly, Betamethasone offers multiple benefits in fighting hemorrhoids. For starters, it provides immediate relief from pain or discomfort. Another primary gain you get from this medication is that it reduces the swelling caused by hemorrhoids.
Thirdly, Betamethasone can also help prevent dreadful infections from developing.
How do you use Betamethasone for hemorrhoids and anal itching?
The correct way of using Betamethasone for hemorrhoids depends on the type of betamethasone product you’re using. However, the cream and ointment are the most common prescriptions for hemorrhoids.
So, I’ll describe the correct way of applying the ointment or cream for the purpose of this guide. We’ll quickly go over the other Betamethasone products too, later below.
- Step 1: Sanitize your hands by washing them thoroughly.
- Step 2: Cleanse the affected area with some warm water. You can use a mild soap to ensure proper cleaning.
- Step 3: Squeeze the Betamethasone tube and collect a corn kernel-sized portion on your fingertips.
- Step 4: Lie down on your side and lift your upper leg to allow easier access to the affected area.
- Step 5: Apply the cream to your anal area, making gentle circular motions to ensure the medication covers the entire area.
- Step 6: Remain still for a couple of minutes as the medication dissolves and takes effect.
Follow your doctor’s dosage advice for the best results. In most cases, medical professionals may recommend using the medication about three times daily.
Betamethasone gels and patches may differ slightly in application and usage. However, your clinicians will instruct you on how to use them correctly.
In case of any unpleasant side effects, make sure you stop using the Betamethasone medication immediately.
What are the potential side effects of using Betamethasone for hemorrhoids and anal itching?
Most cases of side effects caused by Betamethasone remain rare and moderate, in my experience. However, it’s still wise to stay aware of what they are to avoid further complications.
- Skin irritations are among the most common side effects of Betamethasone medication. After applying the ointment, you may experience redness, itching, and irritation in the affected area.
- Betamethasone decreases the concentration of collagen (protein) in your skin. This change can make your skin thinner and more vulnerable to bruises and abrasion.
- In very rare cases, Betamethasone reduces your immune system’s power to protect your tissues. You may experience the opposite effect of developing infections instead of preventing them in these instances.
- Betamethasone also has hyperglycemic effects sometimes. So, diabetic patients should consult with medical professionals first before going straight for this medication.
- Your adrenal glands normally produce the cortisol needed by the body. Betamethasone is a corticosteroid artificially produced and introduced to the body. This mismatch may lead to your adrenal glands producing even less natural cortisol, which is not good for long-term health.
Some of these side effects seem concerning, and others terrifying. However, remember that most of the instances remain rare and the effects mild. But being aware of the possibility will allow you to stay prepared and consult medical help quickly if they do happen.
If any of these annoying side effects become extreme, your doctor will probably advise a change in your hemorrhoidal medication.
Are there any alternative treatments for hemorrhoids and anal itching besides Betamethasone?
Here are other alternatives your doctor may prescribe for hemorrhoids.
- Hydrocortisone cream remains a common alternative to Betamethasone because it’s also a corticosteroid. However, this one’s available over the counter and less prone to unpleasant effects.
- Witch hazel products are an excellent solution for hemorrhoids regardless of the treatment plan. It has anti-inflammatory properties like Betamethasone and offers additional benefits like pain relief and faster healing.
- Some medical wipes include ingredients that serve as astringents. They aren’t as effective as topical creams but serve well when traveling or during emergencies.
- Sitz baths and Epsom salt baths are two easy alternatives you can do in the comfort of your home. They allow your tissues to soften and relax, which helps inflammation and relieves pain too.
- Besides medication, lifestyle changes can greatly influence the progress and control of hemorrhoids. The right diet (fiber, hydration, etc.) and regular exercise will encourage better bowel movement and faster healing.
What are the differences between different types of Betamethasone products?
The severity of your hemorrhoidal symptoms will determine what kind of Betamethasone product (or other medication) you’ll need.
Betamethasone Cream & Ointment
Betamethasone creams and ointments are the most-used alternatives when doctors prescribe them for your hemorrhoidal treatment. They come in affordable tubes and are easy to apply. Also, topical medication for hemorrhoids remains one of the most effective and convenient treatment plans.
Betamethasone Lotions
Betamethasone lotions lean more toward cosmetic care and less toward medical treatment. They’re less potent but can be used for mild skin irritation issues.
Betamethasone Sprays
Sprays come in handy when you need topical treatment of areas difficult to reach by hand. Like lotions, Betamethasone sprays also have weaker than ointments when it comes to reducing swelling.
Conclusion
Betamethasone can take the edge off the painful swelling often associated with hemorrhoids. As a corticosteroid, however, it can induce unpleasant reactions in the body if overused or applied incorrectly. Continue to consult your doctor for any decision on using this medication or changing to other alternatives.
If you’re wary of trying out prescription treatments, here’s a handy guide to easy home remedies you can draw from essential oils for hemorrhoids!