External hemorrhoids are fleshy lumps around the anus. They are caused by abnormal increase in anal pressure resulting in the dilatation of rectal veins; this pressure is also transmitted to the rectal walls affecting the muscles which support the hemorrhoid vessels. The muscular support around the rectal veins becomes lax and the veins get engorged and transformed into a fleshy protrusion covered with skin around the anus. With advancing age, people increasingly experience hemorrhoids problems. {Click the links in the last paragraph below to learn more about the real causes of hemorrhoids}
What are the measures you can use to relieve symptoms?
Measures that are effective in reducing symptoms of external hemorrhoids are:
- Sitz baths with lukewarm water several times daily for about 10-15 minutes. After the bath tub sitting, the affected area should be dried gently with a clean towel in order to remove wetness from the area. When the affected area is left wet, this might encourage bacterial contamination of the hemorrhoid making the hemorrhoid more painful and enlarged. ( Click the links in the last paragraph below to learn how to relief pain in hemorrhoids permanently)
-Ice packs can be applied to the swelling to alleviate pain and swelling.
-Hemorrhoid suppositories can be applied by insertion into the anus to reduce pain and discomfort.
-Hemorrhoid creams, cortisone creams, Vaseline and petroleum jelly would bring an instant improvement of the external hemorrhoid, this relief however may not last long. { Click the links in the last paragraph below to get a more lasting symptom relief}.
-It is preferable to wear loose underwear made of fabrics of natural origin, either cotton or silk.
-Personal hygiene of the anal region by thorough cleaning the affected area after bowel movement by a gentle use of wet wipes helps control the itching and irritation of the anus.
-Pain killers like aspirin and paracetamol{panadol} can be used to relieve the pain of hemorrhoids temporarily.{To learn more on how to reduce your pain permanently, click the links in the last paragraph below}
More active methods of therapy include the following:
- Sclerotherapy - this method shrinks the hemorrhoid lumps by the injection of chemical agent called a sclerosant into the rectal veins which causes inflammations and occlusion of the dilated rectal veins. The sclerosant is injected in the area near the hemorrhoid which provokes the rectal veins reaction.
- Rubber band ligation - this method uses a rubber band which is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid. The band cuts off the blood supply to the affected vein causing it to shrivel and fall off in about a week.
-Infrared photocoagulation - this procedure works by directing infrared light to the affected veins of the hemorrhoid. The dilated veins are coagulated thus cutting off blood supply to the hemorrhoids causing them to shrink.
- Laser coagulation - this method uses an electric current to shrink hemorrhoid protrusions. The electricity is emitted by an electrode probe and triggers a chemical reaction which cuts off the blood supply to the infected area.
-Major Surgery in the form of Hemorrhoidectomy can be used to remove hemorrhoid swellings. The removal is carried out by a cautery devise and a scalpel or by laser. The surgery could be recommended for treatment of prolapsed or thrombosed external hemorrhoids. (If you want to avoid surgery, click the links in the last paragraph to discover a better treatment alternative)
Unless you take pro active steps to prevent re-occurrence, hemorrhoids will return over time. The most effective preventive measures are:
-Live a more active life, stop living a sedentary lifestyle. Physical exercise will exercise buttocks muscles along with the overall conditioning of your body.(Click the links in the last paragraph below to discover a one simple one minute exercise that will help to cure hemorrhoids permanently)
- Take in more oral fluids in your diet, you should try to include at least a glass of fresh fruit juice daily in your intake.
-Consume more fiber rich food items.
