External hemorrhoids and remedies for relief
External hemorrhoids develop due to straining and excessive pressure while defecating. The strain leads to the veins in the anus becoming enlarged. Some reports suggest that the veins in the anus become dilated as well in the case of external hemorrhoids, and it needs timely treatment. These veins could be internal or external. This article shall focus on external hemorrhoids that are found beneath the layer of skin surrounding the anus.

What are the symptoms of external hemorrhoids?

• Some of the symptoms vary between individuals, but there is a general trend reported among patients. This includes itching around the area of the anus, and pain around the anus in other cases.
• Some people have more severe symptoms that are as severe as blood in the stool and visible blood on the toilet paper. Bleeding while defecating is quite serious, and one should consult a doctor for external hemorrhoids treatment in this case.
• Another symptom often reported is lumps around the anus. These symptoms could be due to another medical reason, but it is best to get a doctor’s opinion on the matter.

How can one best relieve the itching and the pain from external hemorrhoids?

• Doctors suggest a variety of home remedies to soothe the area. This includes a warm sitz bath. Ensure that the water is not hot and sit in around three inches of warm water several times a day until the symptoms ease.
• People report that these warm baths are especially good after one finishes defecating. If one has trouble defecating, putting some petroleum jelly just inside the anus might help.
• Some experts also suggest the use of a cold ice pack to be put around the affected area to numb the area and reduce pain.

What are some medications that can be taken to reduce pain and itching?

• Doctors prescribe the use of witch hazel around the affected area. Some witch hazel is to be dabbed on the hemorrhoids that are causing discomfort. Other creams and associated over-the-counter products are also effective.
• A 1% hydrocortisone cream can also be applied on the skin that is immediately outside the anus to help soothe pain and provide relief.
• One is advised to take a doctor’s opinion when using the medication. The hydrocortisone cream is not to be used for more than a week without the doctor’s approval.

What is the best diet one can follow for quick treatment of external hemorrhoids?

• In order to effectively combat hemorrhoids, a diet rich in fiber is highly recommended by doctors and experts.
• Some of the food items one should regularly consume are fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts. These work on the bowel movement and ensure that one does not have to suffer from constipation.
• If these fail to curb the problem, one could try to use a stool softener or a supplement after talking to a doctor about it.

Should one take a laxative, and if not, what else can one do for external hemorrhoids treatment?

• One is advised to completely avoid taking laxatives as this could exacerbate the problem and lead to the hemorrhoids getting out of control.
• Instead, drinking lots of water every day is helpful. Experts recommend at least seven glasses each day, and if one resides in a very hot and humid area, they should drink more.
• Try to avoid processed food completely. One is advised to slowly introduce any new food they may want to try in order to avoid gas. The body should get accustomed to new food slowly.

One should keep in mind that even if surgery is recommended as a last resort when all else fails for external hemorrhoids treatment, they will still need to keep a strict diet in order to ease their symptoms and get some relief.