re the Hemorrhoid cream - the usually the creams that are prescribed take away the pain and symptoms, and do not have a huge effect on the time that it take for them to go away.... you need to ensure that you are not straining etc and have nice soft bowel motions (sorry the nurse in me emerging) as this will help shorten the time that they are out - usually they stay out for a few days, but if they are bad can stay out longer (esp if you have not treated the problem) Drink lots of water, increase fibre and i find that stone fruit every day helps

Hope this helps