What are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in and around the bottom. They’re caused by pressure: straining on the toilet, constipation, sitting for long periods, heavy lifting, pregnancy and childbirth.
They can be uncomfortable but usually aren’t serious, and they often settle within a week or two with the right treatment.
Listed in Ontario’s minor ailments program as: Hemorrhoids.
Common symptoms
- Itching or irritation around the bottom
- Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
- A small amount of bright red blood on the toilet paper
- A soft lump near the opening of the bottom
How a Kennedy pharmacist can help
The conversation happens in our private counselling room. Your pharmacist will ask about your symptoms and bowel habits, and check for anything that should be seen by a doctor.
They may prescribe a medicated cream, ointment or suppository to ease swelling, itching and pain. We’ll also talk about softening stools with fibre, water and, if needed, a gentle stool softener, which is often what stops hemorrhoids coming back.
If we think you’d be better served by a doctor, we’ll tell you, and help you figure out where to go.
Medicines a pharmacist may consider
- Hydrocortisone, dibucaine, framycetin and esculin (Proctol ointment or suppositories)reduces swelling, itching and pain
- Hydrocortisone, pramoxine and zinc sulfate (Proctodan-HC)a mild steroid with a numbing agent, as an ointment or suppository
- Hydrocortisone and zinc sulfate (Anusol-HC)reduces swelling and itching
- Zinc sulfate and pramoxine (Anusol Plus)soothes and numbs, no steroid
Your pharmacist chooses based on your symptoms, age, pregnancy, allergies and other medications, so not every option is right for everyone. Brand names are examples. We often use the generic version, which works the same and usually costs less.
What it costs
The assessment is free with a valid Ontario health card. It’s paid for by the province, just like a visit to your doctor.
If you’re prescribed something, the medicine is paid for like any other prescription: through your drug plan, the Ontario Drug Benefit (65+ and other eligible people), OHIP+ (under 25 without a private plan), or out of pocket.
Good to know: Hemorrhoid creams are often bought off the shelf, but some plans cover them when they’re prescribed. We’ll check yours.
No Ontario health card? Text or call us first and we’ll tell you the fee before we start.
When to see a doctor instead
See your family doctor, a walk-in clinic or a nurse practitioner if:
- You’re bleeding more than a little, or the blood is dark or mixed in with stool
- Your bowel habits have changed for more than a few weeks
- You’re over 50 and have bleeding for the first time
- You have severe pain, or a hard, very painful lump
- You’re losing weight without trying
- It isn’t better after a week of treatment
Call 911 or go to the ER if:
- Heavy bleeding, or feeling dizzy or faint
- Black, tarry stools
Not sure? Call Health811 (dial 811) any time to speak with a registered nurse, free.