Is Tylenol or Ibuprofen Better for Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are classified into three types based on their location, which include:

1. Internal hemorrhoids:
   • They are located deep within the rectum and are not usually seen from the outside.
   • These hemorrhoids are usually painless and may cause involuntary painless rectal bleeding, which is the first symptom of internal hemorrhoids.
2. Prolapsed hemorrhoids:
   • They protrude out through the anus as you strain during bowel movements.
   • A prolapsed hemorrhoid may gradually return to the rectum on its own, or sometimes, you may need to push it back inside gently.
3. External hemorrhoids:
   • They develop under the skin around the anus, which is covered by sensitive skin. Because this area of the body has more sensitive nerves, it is usually more painful and itchy.
   • External hemorrhoids may bleed occasionally. They may be obstructed due to blood clot formation, a condition called thrombosed hemorrhoids.
   • Internal hemorrhoids may also get thrombosed. Thrombosed external hemorrhoid is a painful condition; the bigger the clot, the more painful it will be.
   • A painful anal lump may emerge quickly and worsen over 48 hours. Soreness usually subsides after a few days.

Causes of hemorrhoids may include:

• Sitting for lengthy periods on the toilet seat
• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation
• Pregnancy
• Obesity or being overweight
• Anal intercourse
• Lifting heavyweights
• Consumption of low dietary fiber
• Impaired bowel function because of excessive use of laxatives or enemas

Symptoms of hemorrhoids may include:

• Itching, irritation, inflammation, and swelling of the area surrounding the anus
• Pain and discomfort; the severity of pain may increase with worsening of the condition
• Bleeding of bright red blood from the anus
• Prolapse of internal hemorrhoid due to straining, which may lead to pain and irritation
• Presence of a hard, sensitive lump around the anus

Although hemorrhoids may not cause you complications, it is advised to consult a doctor as soon you observe the aforementioned symptoms. The initial stages of rectal cancer may have symptoms of painless rectal bleed, so it is necessary to confirm the exact cause.

Physical examination

The doctor may inspect the anal region for swelling and may perform a rectal examination by inserting their finger in the rectum to feel for lumps.

Examination using a scope

The doctor may insert a small tube with a camera through the anus to inspect the insides thoroughly and see the hemorrhoids if present.

There are several varieties of scopes, which include:

• Anoscope: Used to see the inside the wall of the anus and rectum
• Proctoscope: Helps view the entire rectum and anus
• Sigmoidoscope: Performed to check part of the large intestine
• Colonoscope: Gives the view of the full length of the large intestine

Noncomplicated hemorrhoids may show relief with simple home remedies and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. However, some may require surgical intervention.

Nonsurgical options

• Compression with ice packs may relieve swelling and pain.
• A sitz bath with warm water relieves itching and burning sensation.
• The use of numbing ointments and steroids on the skin may relieve symptoms. However, steroids are not to be overused because they may cause thinning of the skin.
• The use of hydrocortisone suppositories and hazel pads on the skin may reduce the symptoms.
• Use of OTC painkillers such as Tylenol or ibuprofen may reduce pain, discomfort, and swelling.
• Substitute wet towels in the place of dry toilet paper because the dry paper may increase irritation.

Surgery

You may undergo hemorrhoidectomy—a surgical procedure in which a part or complete hemorrhoid is removed. This surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. It generally doesn’t require any longer hospital stay.