What is Anusol Plus HC Ointment?

Anusol Plus HC Ointment is a medicine which is used to reduce the symptoms of internal and external piles (haemorrhoids). It contains the following ingredients: 

• Hydrocortisone acetate is a mild steroid which helps reduce inflammation.
• Zinc oxide and Bismuth salts are mildly astringent and antiseptic. They soothe and protect raw areas.
• Balsam Peru is mildly antiseptic and has a protective action on sore areas and may help healing.
• Benzyl benzoate has mild antiseptic properties.

This medicine helps relieve the swelling, itch and irritation of internal and external piles (haemorrhoids) and other related conditions, such as anal itching.

What are piles?

Piles (haemorrhoids) are swollen blood vessels which occur inside or outside the back passage (anus).

Some people have piles without experiencing any symptoms, but sufferers may notice the following:

• Bleeding: Although streaks of bright red blood on the toilet paper are not uncommon in people with piles, it may be a sign of a more serious condition and you should see your doctor to check this.
• Swelling: The swollen blood vessels may be felt as a lump or blockage in the anus.
• Pain, itching and irritation in the anal region.

At least 40% of people suffer from piles at some time in their lives. However, many people are too embarrassed to seek advice or treatment and, as a result, experience unnecessary discomfort.

Fortunately, there is much you can do to ease the situation and relieve the symptoms.

What causes piles?

Several factors can contribute to the development of piles:

• The most common cause is straining during a bowel movement, usually because of constipation.
• During pregnancy, the growing baby exerts increased pressure on the anal vessels, which can lead to piles.
• Heredity: you may be more likely to develop piles if your family has a history of suffering.

A Healthy Living Plan for Piles Sufferers

You can reduce the risk of piles by following a healthy diet and lifestyle that helps to keep your bowels working regularly and prevents constipation. This can also help to speed recovery from piles.

• Eat a high fibre diet including foods like brown rice, wholemeal bread, wholewheat pasta etc.
• Eat plenty of fresh fruit, vegetables, and salads.
• Drink plenty of water.
• Don't eat too much salty, fatty, or sugary foods such as crisps, burgers, and cakes.
• Cut back on the amount of alcohol, tea, and coffee you drink.
• Exercise regularly.

A healthy diet and lifestyle will reduce the likelihood of constipation and encourage a regular bowel habit. Go to the toilet regularly and try to avoid straining. Leaning forward from the hips may help.

How to apply Anusol Plus HC Ointment

Anusol Plus HC Ointment is for topical use only, which means it is applied directly to the affected area.

• Wash the anal area and dry gently with a soft towel before using the medicine.
• There is a nozzle supplied with the product which can be used to apply the ointment into the back passage (anus).
• For external piles - after washing and drying the affected area, the ointment should be applied using a gauze dressing.
• For internal piles - after washing and drying the affected area, screw the nozzle provided onto the tube, remove the nozzle cap; insert the nozzle into the back passage and squeeze gently. Clean the nozzle after each use.
• Wash your hands before and after using Anusol.

Adults and the elderly: Anusol Plus HC Ointment can be applied sparingly to the affected area at night, in the morning and after each bowel movement.

What does Anusol Plus HC Ointment contain?

The active substances are per 100 g: Hydrocortisone acetate 0.25 g, Zinc oxide 10.75 g, Bismuth subgallate 2.25 g, Balsam Peru 1.875 g, Bismuth oxide 0.875 g and Benzyl benzoate 1.25 g.