How to Treat External Hemorrhoids

Is there anything more uncomfortable or embarrassing than external hemorrhoids? Not only do you have to suffer through the discomfort but you usually do so in silence because it's unlikely that anyone wants to hear about your external hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids occur when blood vessels near the opening of the anus become swollen. The engorged hemorrhoid veins cause painful palpable lumps at the anal opening, bleeding and itching. Bowel movements can be particularly uncomfortable as the area is stretched. The vast majority of external hemorrhoids gradually resolve by themselves; however, are there ways to treat external hemorrhoids to help them resolve quicker?

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Take a sitz bath or just sit in a tub of warm water to treat external hemorrhoids. This can be done several times a day. Some sitz bath kits come with herbal salt mixtures which can also help to sooth the pain from external hemorrhoids.

2. Use an OTC rectal cream that contains a mild hydrocortisone to help treat the swelling and inflammation associated with external hemorrhoids as well as speed up the healing process.

3. Use an OTC rectal foam that contains a topical anesthetic such as pramoxine which helps to numb and decrease pain caused by external hemorrhoids.

4. Wear cotton gloves at bedtime to help minimize repeated rectal trauma. The rectal itching is often as great a nuisance as the pain caused by external hemorrhoids. Repeated scratching of the rectal area leads to additional skin damage and prevents healing of external hemorrhoids.

5. Drinking plenty of fluid daily to stay well hydrated and prevent constipation. Constipation is a leading cause of external hemorrhoids. Eight to ten glasses a day of water is healthy, calorie-free and an inexpensive option. Eat a diet high in water soluble fiber as well since this helps to keep stool soft and speeds it along through the intestinal tract.

6. Add a daily stool softener if constipation persists despite staying well hydrated and eating a diet high in water soluble fiber.

7. Avoid anal intercourse if you suffer from external hemorrhoids. This is common sense, if the area hurts then leave the external hemorrhoids alone.

Tips & Warnings

• If constipation is causing your external hemorrhoids they will recur unless you modify your diet and lifestyle habits.
• If pain from external hemorrhoids persists despite these suggestions then it's time to see a doctor for further therapy.
• It can be difficult to prevent or treat external hemorrhoids associated with pregnancy.