Beyond OTC Treatments: Additional Ways to Relieve and Prevent Hemorrho – Norms

A Holistic Approach to Hemorrhoid Relief

Over-the-counter treatments are a great first step, but they aren’t the only way to find relief. Hemorrhoids are best managed with a combination of treatments, including hygiene, home remedies, pain relief strategies, and lifestyle changes.

A more holistic approach—one that includes daily care habits—can reduce discomfort and prevent future flare-ups. This guide covers additional treatment strategies that complement OTC treatments for long-term relief.

📊 Key Statistics:

80% of hemorrhoid cases can be treated at home with OTC treatments and lifestyle adjustments. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)
Proper hygiene and cleansing reduce irritation and inflammation by up to 40%. (Source: American Gastroenterological Association)

Hygiene & Cleansing: Keeping the Area Clean Without Aggravation

1. Gentle Cleaning (Ditch the Dry Toilet Paper)

Using dry, rough toilet paper can worsen irritation and cause micro-tears in already sensitive skin.
Switching to a medicated wipe instead of toilet paper helps reduce irritation and keeps the area fresh.

📊 Stat: Medicated wipes reduce post-bowel movement irritation by up to 30%. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

💡 Best Option: Use a soothing, plant-based wipe like Norms Medicated Wipes for gentle cleansing without aggravating the skin.

"I switched to wipes instead of toilet paper, and it made a huge difference. Less irritation, less pain, and way more comfortable." — Greg, 50

2. Showering Instead of Wiping

A quick rinse in the shower can be a gentle way to cleanse without aggravating the area.
Some people find that using a handheld bidet offers the best balance of cleanliness and comfort.

📊 Stat: Handheld bidet users report fewer hemorrhoid flare-ups compared to those who only use toilet paper. (Source: World Gastroenterology Organization)

💡 Best Option: If wipes aren’t available, use a bidet or handheld shower sprayer to cleanse the area gently.

Soothing At-Home Remedies

3. Sitz Baths for Pain & Swelling Relief

A sitz bath is a warm, shallow bath that helps reduce swelling, relieve discomfort, and promote healing.
Simply sit in a tub of warm water (or use a sitz bath basin that fits over your toilet) for 10-15 minutes, two to three times a day.

📊 Stat: People who use sitz baths report faster symptom relief compared to those using topical treatments alone. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

💡 Best Option: Use a sitz bath twice a day during flare-ups for maximum relief.

"I thought sitz baths were a waste of time, but after one particularly bad flare-up, I gave them a shot. Total game-changer." — Lisa, 39

4. Cold Compresses for Quick Relief

Applying an ice pack wrapped in a soft cloth to the affected area can reduce swelling and numb pain.
Use for 10-15 minutes at a time, several times a day.

📊 Stat: Cold compresses reduce swelling in 80% of hemorrhoid sufferers. (Source: National Institutes of Health)

💡 Best Option: Use a soft cloth with a cold compress, and avoid direct ice contact to prevent irritation.

"The cooling relief from an ice pack helped me get through the worst of my flare-up. It was the only thing that gave me immediate relief." — Mark, 42

Pain Management Strategies

5. Non-Prescription Pain Relievers

Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and swelling during flare-ups.
Best for short-term relief when flare-ups cause discomfort while sitting or moving.

📊 Stat: Anti-inflammatory medications reduce hemorrhoid-related pain by an average of 50%. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)

💡 Best Option: Use ibuprofen or acetaminophen during severe flare-ups, but don’t rely on them for long-term relief.

"I used to pop ibuprofen every time I had a flare-up, but the combination of wipes, spray, and a sitz bath ended up being way more effective." — Jake, 47

6. Topical Pain Relief (Cooling Sprays & Medicated Creams)

A cooling spray or medicated cream can provide targeted relief without needing oral painkillers.
Best for reducing inflammation and discomfort directly at the source.

📊 Stat: Combining cooling sprays and medicated creams reduces pain perception by 50% compared to using creams alone. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)

💡 Best Option: Use a touch-free spray like Norms Hemorrhoid Spray for instant cooling relief, and apply Norms Hemorrhoid Cream for deep, long-lasting relief.

Final Thoughts: A Holistic Approach to Hemorrhoid Relief

Hemorrhoids require more than just a single treatment—they need a well-rounded care routine that includes:

✔ Gentle hygiene practices (wipes or bidets instead of dry toilet paper)
✔ Soothing home remedies (sitz baths and cold compresses)
✔ Smart pain management (topical treatments, cooling sprays, and OTC pain relievers)

📊 Stat: People who follow a multi-step hemorrhoid care routine report fewer and less severe flare-ups. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

While OTC products like Norms Medicated Wipes, Hemorrhoid Spray, and Hemorrhoid Cream provide effective relief, adding these additional support strategies can help you feel better faster and prevent future flare-ups.