External hemorrhoids also known as piles affect the veins present outside the anus, resulting in bleeding, itching and cracking. These cause the veins to swell and get inflamed due to an increase in pressure in the lower rectum. There are a variety of reasons which can cause hemorrhoids like sitting on the toilet for long periods of time, being obese, anal intercourse, low fiber diet, straining to have bowel movements, pregnancy, poor posture and more.
Here’s how to treat hemorrhoids with some home remedies:
- Eating high fiber food
Fruits, whole grains and vegetables soften the stool and increase its bulk, which aids in avoiding the straining that can worsen existing symptoms of hemorrhoids. Apart from this, adding fiber to the diet will also aid you in avoiding problems with gas. Also, make sure to drink lots of water and avoid caffeine. This is one of the best hemorrhoid treatments. - Witch hazel
This hemorrhoids treatment with its anti-inflammatory properties can reduce pain, swelling, and itching which are the two big problems of hemorrhoids. It can be found in liquid form as well as wipes too. - Aloe Vera
Used historically as a treatment of hemorrhoids, Aloe Vera has anti-inflammatory properties which may help in reducing irritation. It is advisable to use pure Aloe Vera and one of the ways of getting it is by harvesting the inside of an Aloe plant’s leaves. If you want to check if you are allergic then just rub a small portion on your forearm and wait for 24 to 48 hrs for reactions. - Cleaning the affected area
The affected area should be cleaned using warm water or with moist towelettes. Don’t use dry toilet paper, perfumed or alcohol-based wipes since they can irritate the area. - Apply cold
Use cold compresses or ice packs on the anal area to reduce swelling and get relief from irritations. - Psyllium Husk
This hemorrhoids treatment is a supplement which increases your fiber intake, thus softening your stool and making it easier to pass. It won’t actually affect hemorrhoids at a local level but it will regulate your bowels. So drink plenty of water with this supplement. Also, make sure to not increase the fiber intake too much as it might cause gas or stomach cramping. - Epsom salts and glycerin
This is one of the little-known hemorrhoid treatments and can help painful hemorrhoids. Just mix two tablespoon of glycerin with two tablespoons of Epsom salts. Put the mixture on gauze and then place it on the affected area for 15-20 mins. It is advisable to repeat this every four to six hours until the irritation eases. - External hemorrhoid thrombectomy
If a thrombosis (painful blood clot) has formed then you will have to consult a doctor for this hemorrhoids treatment. The doctor will have to remove the clot by first doing a simple incision and then draining it which may provide relief. The procedure is effective if done within 72 hours of developing a thrombosis. - Coagulation (infrared, laser or bipolar)
This treatment uses an infrared light or laser to curb the bleeding, which causes the hemorrhoids to harden and then shrivel. But the chances of hemorrhoid recurrence are more with this procedure. - Injection (sclerotherapy)
In this treatment of hemorrhoids, a chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid tissue which numbs the nerve endings at the site of injection. But it also hardens the tissue so a scar gets formed. It will take about 4 to 6 weeks for hemorrhoid to shrivel up. It is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise following the injection. Also, while there might be a minor pain, you should be able to resume your routine life soon. - Hemorrhoidectomy
In this hemorrhoids treatment, the excessive tissue which causes the bleeding is removed using a variety of techniques. The surgery is done using local anesthesia or may even be combined with sedation, general anesthetic or spinal anesthetic. This is the most effective hemorrhoids treatment since it is a complete way to treat severe and recurring hemorrhoids. But there might be some pain after the procedure as well as temporary complications while emptying your bladder which can result in UTIs. - Electrotherapy
Also known as electrocoagulation, this hemorrhoids treatment is advised for people with smaller hemorrhoids. Here, a device called a proctoscope is inserted into the anus which helps in locating hemorrhoid. Then an electric current is passed through a small metal probe which is placed at the base of hemorrhoid, above the dentate line. Electrotherapy causes the blood supplying hemorrhoid to thicken, which shrinks it.
Hemorrhoid treatments are varied and while some may be cured through home remedies, for some, medical intervention may be required. It is always advisable to consult a doctor if you are in too much pain.
