Minor Ailments

Hemorrhoids

Find comfortable, discreet relief from hemorrhoid symptoms with caring pharmacist guidance from RxHealthMed.

Understanding and Treating Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or around the anus that can cause pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding. They are very common and often develop from straining during bowel movements, ongoing constipation, pregnancy, or spending long periods sitting down. Most cases respond well to over-the-counter treatments and some simple changes to your daily routine. Your RxHealthMed pharmacist can help you choose the right product and let you know when it would be worth following up with a doctor.

Common Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Symptoms can include bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, itching or irritation around the anus, discomfort or pain, swelling near the anus, or a sensation that bowel movements are not fully complete. External hemorrhoids tend to be more uncomfortable, while internal ones may go unnoticed unless there is some bleeding.

How Your RxHealthMed Pharmacist Can Help

Your RxHealthMed pharmacist can recommend topical creams, suppositories, medicated wipes, and stool softeners to ease your symptoms comfortably and discreetly. They can also suggest dietary adjustments like increasing your fibre and fluid intake to help prevent future flare-ups.

Find Hemorrhoid Relief Near You

Stop by a nearby RxHealthMed pharmacy for discreet, judgment-free access to hemorrhoid treatments and pharmacist support. Come in whenever it is convenient for you.

Frequently asked questions

Here you will find answers to common questions about hemorrhoids, including what causes them, how they are treated, and when it makes sense to see a doctor.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are most commonly caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum from straining during bowel movements, ongoing constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, carrying extra weight, or not getting enough fibre in your diet.

Can hemorrhoids clear up on their own?

Mild hemorrhoids often clear up within a few days with good self-care, such as sitz baths, adding more fibre to your diet, and using over-the-counter treatments. Hemorrhoids that are persistent or more severe may need medical attention.

What over-the-counter products work for hemorrhoids?

Topical creams and ointments containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel, suppositories, medicated wipes, and stool softeners are all helpful options. Your RxHealthMed pharmacist can help you choose the one that makes the most sense for your symptoms.

When should I see a doctor about hemorrhoids?

It is a good idea to see a doctor if you are experiencing significant rectal bleeding, your symptoms are not improving after a week of self-care, you have severe pain, or you notice a lump that is not responding to treatment.

How can I prevent hemorrhoids?

A diet rich in fibre, staying well hydrated, avoiding straining on the toilet, keeping active, and not spending too long sitting in the washroom all go a long way toward preventing hemorrhoids.

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Our pharmacists can assess symptoms and prescribe treatments for minor ailments.