I have hemrroids or a hemrroid, i'm not sure as i've never had this problem before. what treatment options are there other than the leading otc cream?

Maybe not hemorrhoid: Are you sure you have just hemorrhoids? Bleeding from the rectum that recurs may also indicate anal fissures, proctitis (due to infection, inflammatory bowel disease, radiation therapy, stercoral ulcers, rectal prolapse, trauma, etc.) or a bleeding source further upstream. Depending on your age, risk factors, current medication (aspirin, nsaid's, anticoagulants can cause bleeding), get evaluated.