What are External Hemorrhoids?

There are millions of people all over the world who suffer from hemorrhoids. This is especially true of industrialized countries. Hemorrhoids can be broadly classified into two categories - internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. 

The presence of external hemorrhoids is more obvious than the internal ones for the simple reason that the patient can feel them at the mouth of the anal canal. While pain, burning and itching are associated with both kinds of hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids cause a lot more pain and discomfort.

Symptoms

External hemroids are among the more easily recognizable forms of hemorrhoids. An examination of the anal region will reveal fleshy and lumpy growth on the rim of the anal opening. Brown is color, external hemorrhoids cause irritation, itching and rectal pain. 

Nature of External Hemorrhoids 

Hemorrhoid is the name given to the tissues present in the anal canal. Everyone has these tissues or cushions. When the vessels supplying blood to this region swell up and form large lumps, they are called external hemorrhoids. 

Causes 

An external hemorrhoid is caused by the pressure or strain that is applied on the blood vessels carrying blood to the hemroidal tissues in the anal canal. This pressure can be caused by any of the following reasons:

• Digestive problems such as diarrhea and constipation 

• Sitting for too long on the toilet

• Sitting at a desk or in a chair for a prolonged period of time 

• Excess Weight or Obesity 

• Pregnancy 

Apart from this, age could also be a contributing factor to hemorrhoids, be they external or internal. Studies have reflected that people above the age of 50 are more susceptible to this condition. 

Treatment 

There are several kinds of treatments available these days that provide not only symptomatic relief but also long-term cure from external hemorrhoids. Drugs and antibiotics are used to relieve the pain associated with this condition while and topical medications work on reducing the swelling. In order to cope with the digestive problems that a patient has, use of fiber supplements are recommended. Severe cases of hemorrhoids demand surgery. 

Seeking Relief 

Given the discomfort, pain, itching and burning caused by external hemorrhoids, a lot of people are eager to know of quick relief remedies. Warm bath, three times a day, lasting fifteen to twenty minutes each is great to relieve the pain and sensation of discomfort. Using an ice pack will also give you temporary relief. Refrain from wearing clothes that are too tight, as they may make you feel more uncomfortable. Switching over to a fiber-rich diet will greatly help in reducing the severity of this condition.