Treatments for External Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are the irritation and swelling of blood vessels in and around the anus. An external hemorroid is one that develops just outside the anus, while a protruding hemorrhoid is an internal hemorrhoid inflamed to the extent that it actually protrudes from the anus; this can be quite painful. A thrombosed hemorrhoid involves a blood clot causing swelling in a vein near or in the anus. Usually formed as a result of straining during bowel movements, hemorrhoids can disappear in a matter of days. Most at-home treatments are designed to alleviate symptoms of hemorrhoids until they clear up; however, doctors do have other options for persistent cases.

Diet and Medications

• A high-fiber diet will also promote the formation of softer stool. Combined with stool softening pills, the proper combination of diet and medication will reduce the strain in the rectal and anal areas. It is possible to purchase creams and suppositories over the counter designed to alleviate pain and irritation from hemorrhoids. However, the University of Michigan Health System contends that creams and suppositories are not especially helpful.

Baths

• To relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive Kidney Diseases recommends soaking in a warm bath several times a day for 10-minute intervals. It is important to dry the inflamed area after the bath, so that wetness does not lead to further irritation.

Clot Removal

• When treating the symptoms does not alleviate the problem, doctors have several options. If an external hemorrhoid is thrombosed, which means it has a blood clot in the vein, surgery can be performed to open the vein and remove the clot. The solution is not permanent and merely serves to reduce the severity of the symptoms, according to the University of Michigan Medical Center.

Hemorrhoidectomy

• This surgical option actually cuts around the inflamed veins, removing the hemorrhoids. The procedure has a healing time that lasts for several weeks. Bowel movements are often very painful during this period of time.

Sclerotherapy

• Sclerotherapy involves a doctor injecting a chemical that freezes the hemorrhoidal veins, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink due to reduced blood supply. The hemorrhoid goes away approximately a week after treatment. However, according to the Mitra Laboratory Clinic, this is no longer a popular form of treatment for hemorrhoids in many countries due the potential for infection and complications with the anus and rectum that may require surgery to rectify.