I get them about twice a year since I've been cycling (including one that needed to be lanced and an adverse reaction to abx landed me in the ER getting IV's). I've tried about everything. I like hot soaks in epsom salts. I did not like Preparation H, but I like A&D ointment.

Prep H is an osmotic--it "draws" fluid out of the tissue. Not trying to be graphic, but I don't like that "juicy" feeling I get when I use it.
A&D, in my opinion, is far more soothing and is a better lubricant than Chamois Butter. A & D smells like fish oil or diaper creme; I guess I'm weird and I find the aroma comforting.