Natural Methods to Treat External Hemorrhoids

Q. Hi, I am 31 years old. I have something like hemangioma around the outside of my anus. It started 3 years ago, when I was pregnant with my first son. It started with constipation. But now the size has increased and it has light pain when I touch it. It is also itchy. I didn’t see a doctor as I thought it will go away by itself after birth. Is there anything I can do? Please advise.
By: Helen

Reply:

Looks like you have an external hemorrhoid (commonly called piles) outside your anus.

The skin and the mucous membrane covering the anus and lower part of rectum contain plenty of blood vessels beneath it. Due to long term straining, like in constipation, they get distended to form swellings called hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids present outside, over the anal skin are called external, while those present inside on the lower rectum are called internal.

External hemorrhoids get eroded and irritated continuously by outer clothing and fecal matter. So it is common for them to be itchy.

Sometimes, a blood clot forms in them. In such cases, they become very painful.

If your hemorrhoid is very painful, it is suggested that you visit some doctor. He would remove the blood clot and ease your pain.

In cases where the swelling is very big, again one should see a doctor and get some procedure done.

There are many simple procedures to treat hemorrhoids. They include:

• Hemorrhoidectomy- Here the external swelling is resected out surgically after sealing its blood supply.
• Banding- The base of the swelling is tied up tightly with a special rubber band. Gradually the blood supply gets reduced and the swelling disappears.

Home Treatment for Hemorrhoids

In cases of small painless piles, the following self care may be the cure.

• Add more fiber to your diet. You may use some fiber supplement like metamucil, citrucel etc. Drink plenty of water. This will prevent constipation. It is essential to ensure that you don’t strain during passing stools.
• You may also use some stool softener, like caster oil. These are readily available in the market.
• Keep yourself physically fit. A brisk walk for 20–30 minutes a day can help stimulate bowel motility.
• For symptoms such as itching and irritation, you may go for a sitz bath. Small plastic tubs that fit over the toilet seat are available in the market. Just fill it with warm water and sit on it for some time, especially after a bowel movement. This soothes and softens the skin reducing itching. It also reduces the spasms of the anal sphincter muscles.
• Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams may be used. It is recommended not to use them for a long period as they contain steroid creams. Such creams may atrophy the skin of the area.

Take Care,

Buddy M.D.