How does hydrocortisone cream work on hemorrhoids

It is also used to relieve itching and swelling from hemorrhoids and other rectal problems. Hydrocortisone is in a class of medications called corticosteroids.

It works by activating natural substances in the skin to reduce swelling, redness, and itching. Hydrocortisone rectal comes as a cream, an enema, suppositories, and a foam to use in the rectum.

Follow the directions on your prescription or your product label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Use rectal hydrocortisone exactly as directed. Do not use it more or less of it or use it more often than prescribed by your doctor. For proctitis, hydrocortisone rectal foam usually is used one or two times a day for 2 to 3 weeks, then if necessary, every other day until your condition improves. Hydrocortisone rectal suppositories usually are used two or three times daily for 2 weeks; may require treatment for up to 6 to 8 weeks in severe cases.

Proctitis symptoms may improve within 5 to 7 days. For hemorrhoids, hydrocortisone rectal cream usually is used in adults and children 12 years and older up to 3 or 4 times daily. If you obtained hydrocortisone without a prescription over the counter and your condition does not improve within 7 days, stop using it and call your doctor.

Do not put the cream into your rectum with your fingers. For ulcerative colitis, hydrocortisone rectal enema usually is used every night for 21 days. Although colitis symptoms may improve within 3 to 5 days, 2 to 3 months of regular enema use may be required.

Call your doctor if your colitis symptoms do not improve within 2 or 3 weeks. Your doctor may change your dose of rectal hydrocortisone during your treatment to be sure that you are always using the lowest dose that works for you. Your doctor may also need to change your dose if you experience unusual stress on your body such as surgery, illness, or infection.

Tell your doctor if your symptoms improve or get worse or if you get sick or have any changes in your health during your treatment.

Hydrocortisone rectal suppositories may stain clothing and other fabrics. Take precautions to prevent staining when you use this medication. Before using hydrocortisone rectal foam the first time, carefully read the written instructions that come with it.

Ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. This medication may be prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information. Your doctor may instruct you to follow a low-salt, high potassium, or high calcium diet. Your doctor may also prescribe or recommend a calcium or potassium supplement. Follow these directions carefully.

Use the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not use a double dose to make up for a missed one. Children who use rectal hydrocortisone may have an increased risk of side effects including slowed growth and delayed weight gain. Talk to your child's doctor about the risks of using this medication.

People who use rectal hydrocortisone for a long time may develop glaucoma or cataracts. Talk to your doctor about the risks of using rectal hydrocortisone and how often you should have your eyes examined during your treatment. OTC hemorrhoid creams and ointments can be effective for temporarily relieving symptoms, but creams do not make hemorrhoids go away permanently.

The effectiveness of hemorrhoid cream can vary with the product used and the individual. Most home remedies and OTC hemorrhoid creams have not been studied for safety or effectiveness for prolonged use , but if used too often or for more than a week, hemorrhoid creams could cause side effects. If your hemorrhoid symptoms do not go away, disrupt your life or continue to reappear, consider talking to a doctor about hemorrhoid banding. This method causes the hemorrhoid to wither and fall off in about a week.

Remove hemorrhoids gently and quickly. Hemorrhoid Creams. Find a Doctor Find a physician near you. Heal Your Hemorrhoids Remove hemorrhoids gently and quickly. Provide only temporary relief. Treats the underlying cause.

Treats the symptoms. Proven to be effective. Efficacy is unproven. Learn more about Hemorrhoid Creams and Home Remedies ». Intended only for severe cases. No recovery time - return to work the same day.

Significant recovery time. No sedation required. Requires sedation. Learn more about Hemorrhoidectomy ». Uses painful metal clamps. Multum does not assume any responsibility for any aspect of healthcare administered with the aid of information Multum provides.

The information contained herein is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. If you have questions about the drugs you are taking, check with your doctor, nurse or pharmacist. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor.

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Do not take hydrocortisone rectal by mouth. It is for use only in your rectum. What is hydrocortisone rectal? Hydrocortisone is a steroid medicine that reduces inflammation in the body. Hydrocortisone rectal may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. What should I discuss with my health care provider before using hydrocortisone rectal? Ask a doctor or pharmacist if it is safe for you to use this medicine if you have: congestive heart failure; a history of tuberculosis; stomach ulcer or diverticulitis; a colostomy or ileostomy; fever or any type of infection; kidney disease; high blood pressure; or myasthenia gravis.

How should I use hydrocortisone rectal? Avoid using the bathroom for one to three hours after inserting the cream or suppository. Store the rectal cream at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose? What happens if I overdose? Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at What should I avoid while using hydrocortisone rectal? What are the possible side effects of hydrocortisone rectal?

Call your doctor at once if you have a serious side effect such as:.