How Do Suppository & OTC Medications Work For Treating Hemorrhoids?

Posted by Michael Griffin on December 13th, 2019

Hemorrhoids are often known as the swollen blood vessels which usually occur around the anus or rectum area of your body. It is prone and has a tendency to occur at any point in your life, irrespective of age. There are various over the counter hemorrhoid cream available which can work the best for treating hemorrhoids easily or at least cut down the pain which exists. You can also choose home remedies or suppositories that can help treat your condition but the sad part to notice is, they are inactive in treating the swelling or pain.

Suppository Vs Topical: Which Suits The Best?

Since hemorrhoids are basically of two or more types, it is important to note that internal hemorrhoids occur inside the area of your rectum whereas external occur outside which is clearly seen and can be felt too. External hemorrhoids are more prone to cause itching, irritation, and pain whereas internal ones may not be as irritating or painful as external ones because the tissue lining the internal rectum has fewer nerve endings.

Certain hemorrhoid creams, ointments, and pastes are commonly applied to external hemorrhoids for temporary relief as these have an ability to alter the symptoms and reduce your itching. 

Suppositories are said to be a better and ideal option when it comes to treating the external hemorrhoids, as the medicine used can absorb the rectal tissue thereby helping to relieve all the discomfort and pain caused. 

How To Use A Suppository?

It is practically possible for a person to insert a suppository on their own. It is true that over the counter hemorrhoid creams can be used anytime you wish to relieve your pain, but its effects are not as long-lasting as that of a suppository. To begin with your suppository, you will have to use the applicator which comes along with it. 

You must keep soap and a sink nearby or you can also use lubricating jelly to make inserting the medicine easier. The most important thing to do before proceeding is, to empty your bowels if you can, as the longer the medicine remains in place without being pushed out, the better.

Step 1
Once you are ready, remove your lower garments and tear off the wrappings of the suppository after checking its firm. You can apply a bit of lubricating jelly at the end of it, which may prevent the suppository from melting.

Step 2
Stand beside a chair. Always keep in mind it is not the same as you apply any hemorrhoid cream. Applying a suppository, you will have to stand with one foot propped up, or you can also lie down on one side keeping your bottom leg straight tucked towards the stomach. 

Step 3
Time to insert the suppository into your rectum. Push firmly and gently with its narrower end making sure that it’s at least one inch past the anal sphincter.

Step 4
Do not get up right after inserting it. Wait for a while or keep lying for about 15 minutes, as this will allow your body to melt the suppository thereby allowing the absorption process to begin. 

Step 5
The final step, once your rest time is over you can slowly and easily get up and throw away all the wrappings. Wash your hands. 

Tips To Keep In Mind:

Try to avoid using the bathroom for at least an hour after you insert it in the suppository. Following this will allow the medicine giving more time to work before it may be washed or wiped away by urine or a bowel movement.

If you’re using a suppository with a gauze insert, you are advised to leave the gauze in place for at least an hour. After an hour, you can tug on the string to remove it from the rectum area easily. Never use such medications without your doctor’s permission, as too much usage can also result in tenderness to itch, skin rash and sometimes inflammation.