All Anusol products are used to treat haemorrhoids but vary in their formulations. Both Anusol cream and ointment contain the same active ingredients (zinc oxide, balsam of Peru, bismuth oxide). Here we'll take you through the differences so you can choose an option that suits you. Similar products include Germoloids for piles.

Anusol is a medication used in the treatment of haemorrhoids (also known as piles) and works to soothe the symptoms of discomfort and itchiness. It comes in three formulations which are cream, ointment and suppositories. Anusol also comes in a formulation containing hydrocortisone, a mild steroid with anti-inflammatory properties. The hydrocortisone-containing versions are named Anusol Plus HC and Anusol Soothing Relief.

Antacids are a type of medication used to relieve indigestion in adults and children, and are best known as brands such as Gaviscon, Rennie, and Maalox. They usually come in chewable tablets or as a liquid, and are available to buy without a prescription. Some antacid products contain other active ingredients, such as sodium alginate (a raft-forming agent that relieves heartburn. Examples of antacids include calcium carbonate, sodium bicarbonate, aluminium hydroxide, magnesium carbonate, and potassium bicarbonate.

Alverine is a renowned antispasmodic medication widely used in the management of gastrointestinal conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and diverticular disease. This article will delve into the various aspects of alverine, including its usage, mechanism of action, contraindications, and potential side effects. Alverine, available both on prescription and over-the-counter (only with a previous diagnosis), offers relief from abdominal pain, cramping, and bloating associated with IBS, diverticular disease, and menstrual cramps in women.

Acid reflux is a very common problem that most people suffer from time to time, and some people are prone to flare-ups on a regular basis. Most people can think of things in their recent lifestyle choices that cause it and this is all they need to do to allow it to settle whereas others need medication to improve their discomfort. Acid reflux occurs when digestive acid rises up from the stomach, burning the sensitive lining of your oesophagus (foodpipe or gullet). It usually happens about half an hour after eating and can cause a bitter taste in the mouth, halitosis (bad breath), burping, bloating, nausea, a long-standing dry cough and pain on swallowing hot drinks. It can also sometimes cause a sore throat when you first wake up. It can feel quite uncomfortable, typically as a burning feeling in your tummy or chest going up towards the neck – it’s known as ‘heartburn’ for good reason although it has nothing to do with the heart – but in most cases it's mild and gets better on its own. If you suffer reflux regularly, it helps to have a few medications at home that you know work for you, so let’s talk you through the treatment options. It's also a good idea to consider any lifestyle factors you can modify, like obesity, alcohol excess, smoking, stress and certain foods, like those that are spicy or fatty. Bending forward a lot during the day can also make it more likely.

WindSetlers are gel capsules used to relieve symptoms of trapped wind, such as pain, discomfort and bloating. Trapped wind occurs when tiny bubbles of gas get trapped in the stomach and lower intestine, and it is usually the result of there being too much gas in your digestive tract. There are many potential causes for having too much gas, including your diet. Foods such as broccoli, brussels sprouts, beans and potatoes can all cause excessive amounts of gas to build up. Medical conditions, such as lactose or fructose intolerance, Coeliac disease and inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis and certain medications like metformin used in diabetes and lactulose, an osmotic laxative, can also be responsible. Swallowing too much air is another potential cause of having too much gas. This can happen when you are stressed and when you chew gum, smoke, eat or drink too quickly or drink carbonated beverages. WindSetlers are available over the counter, and they are suitable for adults and children. The active ingredient in the medication is simeticone (also known as activated dimeticone)

Wind-eze (the active ingredient of which is simethicone) is used to treat trapped wind and relieve bloating. Tiny bubbles of gas can get trapped in the stomach and lower intestine causing discomfort and pain. Wind-eze relieves the surface tension of these tiny bubbles to ease the passing of wind and relieve pain and bloating.

Threadworm are a type of parasitic infection that look like a thin thread, hence their name. They are found to grow in human and animal guts. Threadworms are the most common parasitic worm in the UK and the most commonly affected groups are children and household contacts of infected children. Threadworms lay eggs around your bottom (anus), which make it itchy. As well as some suspicious symptoms, it is possible to see threadworms occasionally in your child's poo. They are pale white moving worms, and can be quite clear if you notice them. The reason they are so infectious, is that the worms eggs take around 2 weeks to hatch. The eggs can then get stuck on your Childs fingers when the area is scratched. They can then pass on to anything they touch, including clothes, pets, tables, toys etc. The eggs are ingested by hand-to-mouth transfer after touching a surface with the eggs or scratching your bottom. Because of this, and the time-lag with the eggs hatching – repeated treatments are commonly needed.

Symprove is a water-based food supplement that contains live bacteria formulated to aid gut health and promote healthy gut flora. The aim of Symprove is to get good bacteria past the stomach without being digested and broken down, and land in the intestines where the body’s microbiome of good bacteria exists. In the ever-evolving health and wellness landscape, the spotlight on gut health has grown significantly. Probiotics, live microorganisms that confer health benefits when consumed in adequate amounts, have emerged as key players in supporting the delicate balance of the gut microbiome. Among the myriad probiotic options, Symprove stands out as a liquid probiotic formulation with a unique approach to fostering a healthy gut environment. This article aims to delve into the science behind Symprove, exploring its composition, mechanisms of action, and the potential benefits it may offer in promoting digestive wellness.

Stomach pain can be uncomfortable and maybe even frightening. Luckily stomach pain has some common causes, is usually self-limiting and in many cases can be self-treated at home. Firstly, it is important to rule out causes for concern. If you are suffering from severe debilitating pain, or experiencing any other serious symptoms such as large volumes of blood in your vomit, fever, or unable to stay hydrated – you should seek advice from your doctor.

Children catch stomach bugs really easily, and they feel pretty rotten while it lasts. It can be tough to see them unwell, but parents also feel exasperated that it will be a good few days before their child or toddler can return to school or nursery. Signs and symptoms of gastroenteritis in children Stomach bugs, also known as gastroenteritis or "stomach flu", mostly cause diarrhoea, vomiting, stomach ache, pain or cramps, and sometimes fever. Most tummy bugs are infections caused by a virus and essentially their body needs time to do the hard work. Unfortunately there's nothing we doctors can prescribe to chase it away any sooner, it resolves by itself. But there are ways to help them feel more comfortable while they battle on, and there are things you can give them to avoid further illness. What causes stomach bugs? Tummy bugs are most often viral, but bacteria and parasites can also cause them. Rotavirus is the most common gastric virus, with nearly every child in the UK coming across it by the age of 5, and they are given a vaccine in the UK childhood immunisation programme, to protect them. Adenovirus and norovirus can also cause diarrhoea and vomiting. Bacterial infection can cause fever and bloody diarrhoea, and they may appear more unwell. The most likely bacteria are Campylobacter, E. Coli and Salmonella.

Stimulant laxatives are a type of medication commonly used to relieve constipation. They work by stimulating the intestines, promoting bowel movements and alleviating the discomfort associated with constipation. This article provides a detailed overview of stimulant laxatives, including their uses, mechanism of action, and potential side effects.