How does hydrocortisone work?
The hydrocortisone in treatments for piles and itchy bottom is a steroid (corticosteroid).
Like other steroids, it works by calming your immune system. This reduces swelling (inflammation) and helps to relieve the pain and itching of piles.
When will I feel better?
The pain and itching should get better within a few days of starting treatment.
Are there any long-term side effects?
If you use hydrocortisone for a long time, it can make the skin around your anus thinner.
It's best not to use it for more than 7 days, and not to repeat the treatments too often.
Can I have vaccinations?
With some hydrocortisone treatments, you need to be careful about having vaccinations. However, this is not the case with hydrocortisone treatments for piles and itchy bottom. You can have vaccinations if you need them.
Are there other medicines that help piles or itchy bottom?
There are other treatments available to buy that do not contain hydrocortisone. These include creams and suppositories containing zinc oxide or other soothing ingredients.
Your doctor may be able to prescribe stronger medicines for piles or itchy bottom.
Will it affect my contraception?
Hydrocortisone treatments for piles and itchy bottom do not affect any type of contraception, including the combined pill and emergency contraception.
Can I drive or ride a bike?
Using hydrocortisone treatments for piles and itchy bottom will not affect you being able to drive or cycle.
Can I drink alcohol while using hydrocortisone for piles and itchy bottom?
Yes, you can drink alcohol while using all hydrocortisone treatments for piles and itchy bottom.
Is there any food or drink I need to avoid?
No, using hydrocortisone treatments for piles and itchy bottom does not affect what you can eat and drink.
It's a good idea, though, to eat lots of foods that contain fibre so you do not get constipation. Examples of foods with lots of fibre are porridge oats and wholegrain breakfast cereals, wholemeal breads, wholewheat pasta, pulses, potatoes with their skins on and vegetables.
To avoid constipation, try to drink several glasses of water or other non-alcoholic drinks each day. If you can, it may also help to increase your level of exercise.
Can lifestyle changes help with piles or itchy bottom?
Piles and itchy bottom often settle down without treatment, but there are some things you can do to help.
Piles can be brought on by too much straining on the toilet. Straining is often because of constipation. You're less likely to get constipated if you:
- increase the amount of fibre you eat, like wholemeal bread, fruit and vegetables
- drink lots of water every day
- exercise regularly
- go to the toilet as soon as you feel you need to – do not hold it in
Skin moisturisers can also help relieve the pain and itching of piles. Ask your pharmacist what they recommend.