![Preparation H](https://images.medicinenet.com/images/article/main_image/what-does-preparation-h-do.jpg?output-quality=75)
Hemorrhoids, also calledpiles, are swollen, inflamed veins around the anus or the lower part of the rectum (the terminal part of the large bowel).Hemorrhoidsare common in both males and females. It is estimated that 1 in 20 Americans havehemorrhoids. They occur more commonly with age. Around 50% of the Americans who are older than 50 years are affected.
Hemorrhoidsmay be felt as tiny lumps in and around the anus. They may often get better on their own within a few days, but some may need medications and even surgery to go away. Hemorrhoids are of two main types:
- External hemorrhoids:They form under the skin around the anus.
- Internal hemorrhoids:They form in the lining of the anus and lower rectum.
Despite being one of the most uncomfortable and often embarrassing health conditions, hemorrhoids can generally be treated and managed easily by a doctor. Various options are available, both medical and surgical, for the treatment of hemorrhoids, such aspreparation H.
What is preparation H?
Preparation H is a popular topical (applied over the inflamed area) treatment for hemorrhoids, both external and internal.
It also contains several inactive ingredients, such as aloe vera leaf extract, anhydrous citric acid, glyceryl monostearate, methylparaben, mineral oil, purified water, sodium benzoate, stearylalcohol,vitamin Eacetate, and xanthan gum.
What does preparation H do?
准备H有几个成分help relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoids, such aspain,itching, and bleeding. Preparation H does the following things:
![](https://images.medicinenet.com//images/slideshow/hemorrhoids-s1-what-are-hemorrhoids.jpg)
SLIDESHOW
How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Types, Causes, and TreatmentsSee SlideshowHow do you use preparation H?
Preparation H is an over the counter product available at most pharmacies. Do not use this product without consulting your physician if:
- You have underlying health conditions, such asheart disease,high blood pressure,thyroid disease,diabetes, or problems with passing urine because of anenlarged prostate.
- You arepregnantorbreastfeeding.
- You are onmedications for depression.
- You are younger than 12 years.
For using preparation H:
- Clean the affected area gently using a cleansing wipe.
- Pat dry the area using a soft cloth or tissue.
- Open the tube and apply the contents generously in the lower portion of the anus.
- You may apply the ointment up to four times a day, especially at night, in the morning, or following a bowel movement that may exacerbatehemorrhoidsymptoms.
- 申请下肛管,删除cover from dispensing cap and attach the dispensing cap to the tube.
- Lubricate the dispensing cap well and gently insert it partly into the anus.
- Clean the cap well after each use and replace the cover.
Although generally considered safe, preparation H can causeallergicreactions in some people. Stop using the ointment and consult your doctor if:
- The hemorrhoids worsen or do not improve within 7 days.
- You develop bleeding from the hemorrhoids.
- There is anallergic reaction.
- You experience new symptoms, such as redness,rashes, swelling, irritation, or pain.
- There is worsening of already existing symptoms.
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare Holdings (US) LLC. Preparation H- Mineral Oil, Petrolatum, Phenylephrine HCl Ointment. https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/fda/fdaDrugXsl.cfm?setid=507c08ab-a98b-33fe-e2ac-eb9b9a810d5a&type=display
Top What Does Preparation H Do? Related Articles
Do I Have Hemorrhoids or Rectal Prolapse?
Learn more about the major differences between hemorrhoids and rectal prolapse and the kinds of treatment available.Hemorrhoids (Internal and External)
Hemorrhoids (piles) are swollen veins in the rectum and anus. Causes include pregnancy, obesity, diarrhea, low-fiber diet, and prolonged sitting on the toilet. Treatment varies depending upon the severity of the hemorrhoids. Some treatment options include over-the-counter creams and suppositories, stool softeners, warm sitz baths, and hemorrhoidectomies.How to Get Rid of Hemorrhoids: Types, Causes, and Treatments
Learn how to get rid of hemorrhoids, the difference between internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids, what causes hemorrhoids, how long hemorrhoids last, and hemorrhoids treatment.Hemorrhoids Quiz
Does everyone have hemorrhoids? Test your knowledge of this and many other facts about Hemorrhoids.Home Remedies for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins in the lowest part of the rectum and anus. These veins bulge and get irritated, especially when the patient defecates, and cause bleeding. Hemorrhoids are also commonly called piles. It is one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding.How Do Hemorrhoids Go Away?
Hemorrhoid symptoms may go away with diet and lifestyle modifications. You must, however, seek immediate medical care if your symptoms do not go away in a week or you experience symptoms.How Do I Know if I Have Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles (hemorrhoids) are a common condition that you may not even notice you have. Learn what the signs of piles are and how to treat them.How Long Do Thrombosed External Hemorrhoids Last?
Many thrombosed external hemorrhoids may go away within a few weeks. Pain may improve within 7-10 days without surgery and may disappear within 2-3 weeks.How Long Does it Take Hemorrhoids to Heal?
If you've ever had hemorrhoids, you know that they can be very painful and irritating. Learn what hemorrhoids are, how doctors treat them, and what you can do to speed up their healing.When Should You Go to the Doctor for Hemorrhoids?
If you're dealing with painful or bleeding hemorrhoids, you're not alone. About one in 20 Americans have hemorrhoids, and that includes half of all adults over age 50.Should I See a Gastroenterologist or Proctologist for Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids, commonly called piles, are swollen, inflamed veins around the anus or the lower part of the rectum (the terminal part of the large bowel). They may be felt as tiny lumps in and around the anus. Hemorrhoids may often get better on their own within a few days, but some may need medications and even surgery to go away.