External Hemorrhoids affect many people around the globe on a daily basis. Hemorrhoids are extremely common, yet most people do not realize that they have them until the hemorrhoids become swollen and irritated. External hemorrhoids are caused by pressure around hemorrhoidal veins on the outside of the anal region. This is the reason why hemorrhoids swell and become painfully inflamed.
There are many conditions that will increase the pressure in the veins in which will cause the external hemorrhoids to become inflamed and irritated. Some of these are straining to pass stool, becoming pregnant, becoming older, constant constipation, anal sex, obesity, and having a high fat and low fiber diet. Though some of these are hard to prevent like becoming older or becoming pregnant most can be avoided.
Increasing one’s daily diet of fiber often is the easiest way to prevent external hemorrhoids from forming. This causes one’s stool to soften, thereby making it easier to pass. Stool softeners can also help. Reducing strain during bowel movements is a good way to reduce the stress that causes external hemorrhoids, as is avoiding sitting for a long period of time in one position. Timely bowel movements at the first urge of having to go are also helpful because it also reduces stress and swelling.
There are other ways to modify one’s behavior to reduce the impact of external hemorrhoids. Avoiding anal sex is practical, as is daily exercise and consuming fruits and vegetables. This can help with cutting down on constipation. Those who still suffer from constipation shouldn’t strain themselves, as this can just make the problem worse.
If you notice blood in your stool you really should see a doctor right a way. Don’t assume that the blood is from your external hemorrhoids. There are other more serious problems associated with blood in the stool. Some of these are digestive diseases and rectal cancer.
As shown, external hemorrhoids can be painful, but treating them can be simple and easy. A sitz bath, for example, is a commonly-used treatment that involves soaking the external hemorrhoids in warm water. Over the counter creams and medicated ointments are also effective. They are varied and plentiful and affordable for temporary relief. Ice packs are another cheap and effective way to counter the pain and swelling that comes with external hemorrhoids.
Try to avoid ibuprofen. Even though ibuprofen is used for inflammation it can cause constipation. If you need an over the counter pain reliever Tylenol is the best to use. Some of the creams on the market today have anesthetics in them to help with the pain. The main thing to remember when treating external hemorrhoids is to act right away regardless how small the symptoms are.
Learn more about hemorrhoids and hemorrhoid related problems (including problems such as Hemorrhoids during Pregnancy) today.
