Choosing Your Hemorrhoid Treatment: Oral vs. Topical Treatments Explained

Overview

• This article explores the differences between oral and topical hemorrhoid treatments.
• Oral treatments like Diosmin + Hesperdin (Daflon® 1000) offer systemic relief, while topical options like Emoflon® provide localized relief.
• Consider the severity of your hemorrhoid symptoms, your medical history, and your personal preferences before choosing the best option.

Introduction

Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen veins around the anus that can be quite uncomfortable¹. They can cause pain and bleeding and make bowel movements difficult. Many people experience them, and they can result from factors such as straining too hard, sitting for prolonged periods, or not consuming enough fiber².

It's important to treat hemorrhoids because they can get worse and cause problems if you ignore them. You can get relief from the discomfort and prevent complications like severe pain or infection.

In this article, we explore the difference between oral vs topical hemorrhoid treatments to help you decide on what's good for you.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hemorrhoid Treatment

When considering a treatment option for your hemorrhoids, it is essential to evaluate several factors that influence the effectiveness and appropriateness of various medicines³. Hemorrhoids can be classified into internal and external types, each requiring different management strategies based on severity and symptoms⁴.

Severity of Hemorrhoid Symptoms

At home, you can evaluate the severity of your symptoms by observing the intensity and frequency of discomfort, bleeding, or other related issues. For instance, mild symptoms might manifest as occasional itching or slight bleeding, while severe ones could involve persistent pain or significant bleeding⁵.

Medical History

Medical history provides essential insights into your overall health, previous medical conditions, and potential contradictions for certain treatments. When you take the time to evaluate your history you can identify any existing condition you might have like hypertension⁶ or allergies. This might influence the safety and efficacy of any oral or topical treatments.

Personal Preferences

If your personal preferences are not considered, you will likely not follow through with the recommended treatment, leading to suboptimal outcomes. For example, you might prefer the convenience and direct application of topical treatments while others find oral medication more appealing. All your discomfort and concerns should be addressed to ensure that you are comfortable with the chosen approach⁷.

Oral Hemorrhoid Treatment Options

Oral medicines alleviate symptoms and address underlying causes. These treatments often include pills and dietary supplements.  The convenience of oral treatments makes them particularly appealing for managing internal hemorrhoids or systemic symptoms, as they can be easily integrated into your daily routines. 

Stool Softeners

Stool softeners are a type of oral treatment option for hemorrhoids that help alleviate constipation by making bowel movements easier and less painful. These medications, often containing active ingredients like docusate sodium⁸, work by increasing the amount of water and fat absorbed in the stool, resulting in softer and more manageable stools. This is particularly beneficial for you, as straining during bowel movements can exacerbate your condition.

Pain Relievers

Oral pain relievers offer a crucial component in managing hemorrhoid discomfort. One of the best over-the-counter options for a targeted approach is Diosmin + hesperidin (Daflon® 1000).  This venoactive treatment works by improving blood flow and reducing venous congestion, addressing the root causes of hemorrhoids. By reducing inflammation and strengthening veins, Daflon 1000 can provide both immediate relief and long-term benefits for managing hemorrhoid symptoms.

Prescription Medications

Prescription medications⁹ provide relief for more severe or persistent symptoms. Unlike over-the-counter treatments that primarily address external symptoms, prescription hemorrhoid medications often contain active ingredients that can penetrate deeper into the affected area, reducing inflammation and promoting healing from within. These medicines are often recommended if you have not responded well to over-the-counter options.

Topical Hemorrhoid Treatment Options

Topical treatment options for hemorrhoids refer to various medications applied directly to the affected area to relieve symptoms such as pain, itching, and inflammation. These treatments provide localized relief rather than cure the underlying condition¹⁰. 

Creams and Ointments

One example is Emoflon®, a rectal ointment that contains sucralfate as the active ingredient. Upon application, it creates a physical barrier on the anal lining, covering and protecting the anal epidermis, while also soothing inflamed and itchy skin and promoting healing. It is applied around the anus or in the rectum using an easy-to-use applicator provided with the tube, making it convenient for you to administer the treatment as directed.

Over-the-Counter

Over-the-counter (OTC) refers to a variety of topical products that can be purchased without a prescription. It is designed to provide symptomatic relief for mild to moderate discomfort¹². The convenience of these options allows you to self-manage your symptoms at home without the need to go to the doctor.

Although these products can effectively alleviate the symptoms, they are mostly aimed at controlling them rather than addressing the underlying causes of hemorrhoids.

How to Choose Between Oral and Topical Hemorrhoid Treatments?

When deciding between oral vs topical hemorrhoid treatments, it's important to consider the factors listed above Think about how quickly you need relief, how easy the treatment is to apply, and whether you want to address underlying causes or focus on immediate symptom relief. Consider consulting with a healthcare provider as well to help you determine the best option based on your condition and overall health¹³.

Key Takeaway

Hemorrhoids can lead to significant pain, itching, and bleeding, which not only disrupts routine activities but can also affect mental well-being and social interactions. By understanding the available treatment options and considering individual preferences and lifestyle changes, you can select the most suitable approach to alleviate your symptoms and restore your quality of life. This can ensure that you can engage fully in your everyday activities without the burden of discomfort.

For those seeking relief from hemorrhoidal discomfort, oral and topicals can offer effective solutions. By considering these treatments, you can take proactive steps towards managing hemorrhoids. Try Diosmin + Hesperidin (Daflon® 1000)  and Emoflon® today to experience the benefits they can offer.