A recurring question for people who prefer home remedies is, ‘Do hemorrhoid suppositories work?’ The answer is yes, they do.
Home treatments like witch hazel extracts or Epsom salt baths can indeed do wonders for treating hemorrhoids.
So, why add another layer of discomfort by using suppositories too? That’s because they work to alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms differently than natural remedies. And here’s everything about hemorrhoidal suppositories you ever wanted to know.
Are Hemorrhoid Suppositories Effective?
Yes, they are.
Hemorrhoid suppositories remain the most trusted treatment among medical professionals. That’s because they are created specifically to treat hemorrhoids. Natural remedies, on the other hand, are treatments that happen to help hemorrhoids in addition to other health conditions.
No doubt, hemorrhoid suppositories work well in treating symptoms and preventing pain and discomfort. It’s the same reason why most doctors would recommend a suppository in addition to any other advice on lifestyle or dietary changes.
What happens when you use a hemorrhoid suppository?
Using hemorrhoid suppositories correctly will result in pain relief, swelling reduction, and other related symptoms. In most cases, one or more of these effects will occur depending on the suppository type you use.
Suppositories are bullet-shaped items (about the size of a pen cap) that go into your anus. They are made from soft materials that can melt or disintegrate after they enter the rectum. The melting is not immediate. But when it happens, it releases healthy chemicals into the surrounding tissue that improve the unpleasant symptoms caused by your hemorrhoids.
The correct way to use Hemorrhoid Suppositories
I feel that it’s important to take you through the proper application of suppositories here. Inserting anything into the rectum sounds uncomfortable and invasive. But knowing how to use suppositories correctly will ensure painless use and maximum benefits.
What works better for hemorrhoids: Cream or Suppository?
Treating hemorrhoids is not a question of whether creams or suppositories work better. I believe the right question to ask here is how to combine suppositories and creams for the best results.
Hemorrhoid symptoms can vary widely from patient to patient. And no single remedy works across the board for all cases and every symptom. In my experience, a healthy balance of home remedies and timely use of suppositories yield the most satisfying results. Even your diet, hydration, and physical movements will affect the progress of hemorrhoids in your body.
Topical creams and ointments do a great job of soothing the outer areas of the anus. If your swollen tissues are external, the discomfort is more acute. And the external application of calming ointments may help more than inserting objects into the anus.
On the other hand, the inflamed tissues inside the rectum will not disappear quickly with creams alone. That’s where hemorrhoidal suppositories work wonders from the inside out.
Ultimately, it’s the correct use of both treatments that ensure that your hemorrhoids pass quickly and the discomfort is minimal even when you endure the symptoms.
How long does it take for hemorrhoid suppositories to work?
Hemorrhoid suppositories will start taking effect as they melt and disperse in your rectum. But the duration for the end result will depend on the extent of your symptoms and your body’s compatibility with the medication.
After you insert the suppository into your rectum, avoid making sudden movements or changing position for the next 20 minutes or so. This stillness will allow the suppository to settle in properly and work its magic.
Your doctor may advise using the suppositories for days or even weeks, depending on your progress. Remember, the severity of your hemorrhoids will determine how frequently and how long you should use these suppositories.
When should you not use hemorrhoid suppositories?
You should stop hemorrhoidal suppositories if there are any signs of the hemorrhoid symptoms getting worse. Our bodies respond differently to foreign objects and some people have reported side effects and worsening conditions after using anal suppositories.
Fortunately, these instances are extremely rare. And the chances of you facing these aggravations remain low. However, it’s wise to consult your doctor’s advice before diving into any suppository products.
Even if you’re using the suppositories on prescription, stop if you experience increased discomfort or pain.
What are the side effects of hemorrhoidal suppositories?
In rare cases, hemorrhoidal suppositories may cause reactions that aggravate your hemorrhoids instead of fixing them.
Ironically, the side effects caused by suppositories can be similar to the same symptoms they’re meant to cure. For instance, suppositories with vasoconstrictors serve to reduce the swelling around the rectal tissues. However, the chemicals in the suppository may react with your tissue and increase inflammation instead of curing it.
Other times, the irritation from exposed tissue in your anus may increase if the suppositories are not used correctly. The result is that you end up with more discomfort and worsening symptoms.
In the event of any of these side effects, stop using the suppositories and seek your doctor’s advice regarding other treatments.
Conclusion
Side effects for suppositories are rare and marginal. However, the benefits and known advantages are undeniable. So, every time someone asks me, ‘Do hemorrhoidal suppositories work?’ my answer is always, ‘Yes, they sure do!’
It’s not just medical suppositories and fancy ointments that help your hemorrhoids, though.
Changes in diet and food habits go a long way in treating hemorrhoids at home. Learn how an ordinary food like yogurt can help you get rid of hemorrhoids.