External hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms and solutions

External hemorrhoids are a very uncomfortable condition. It may not be serious, but it must be treated appropriately. There are several factors that cause them, such as making a great effort when evacuating, childbirth or the own weight that is gained during pregnancy.

When suspecting external hemorrhoids or piles, some recommendations must be followed. In addition, it is important to know its causes, symptoms and solutions to know when to go to the doctor.

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External hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms and solutions

External hemorrhoids generally disappear within two days. During this time, avoid standing for a long time, and the discomfort can be soothed with ointments and sitz baths.

However, if the discomfort persists, increases or simply does not subside after 3 days, see a doctor. It is the medical professional who must make a better assessment, and if necessary, the case will be referred to a proctologist.

Causes

External hemorrhoids occur because the veins in the rectum become dilated

. This happens when there is an unusual increase in pressure in the rectum, the causes being varied.

In most cases its recurrence can be prevented. However, it must be understood that once they have appeared for the first time, the chances of them appearing again are high.

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1. Constipation

Constipation is a very common cause of hemorrhoids.. When you are constipated, the effort to pass stool can be very intense. This easily causes the veins of the anus to dilate.

2. Vascular disorders

Vascular disorders directly affect the veins located in the rectum. If you have a related vascular disease or there is a history of some type of vascular disease in the family, there may be a relationship; blood vessels are more likely to be involved.

3. Pregnancy

During pregnancy it is very common to suffer from hemorrhoids. Due to weight gain, the veins of the rectum become inflamed, and this excess weight falls on the lower part of the body. On the other hand, during labor a great effort is made that regularly causes the appearance of these external hemorrhoids.

4. Aging

It is normal for the aging of the body to cause hemorrhoids. When the fibers that support the sphincter of the rectum relax due to the natural aging process, the veins and anus dilate causing piles.

5. Obesity

Obesity is a cause of the appearance of hemorrhoids. This is because when the body carries a noticeable weight, the lower part is recent, and that is that extra pressure is generated. This pressure squeezes and damages the rectal veins and causes external hemorrhoids.

6. Bad habits

Bad eating habits and sedentary lifestyle are a factor in the development of hemorrhoids. A diet low in fiber, high in red meat, lack of exercise or standing for a long time are causes of the appearance of piles.

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Symptoms

Symptoms of external hemorrhoids are easy to spot. It can be recognized well before if it is necessary to go to a professional evaluation or it is a condition that can be treated without further intervention.

At the first discomfort and symptoms, do not hesitate to apply some of the most recommended solutions and thus reduce pain and discomfort. It is important to pay attention and not try to ignore this ailment, as it could be prolonged or aggravated.

1. Mild pain in the rectum region

Having pain in the rectum region is one of the clearest symptoms of external hemorrhoids. These pains are exacerbated when sitting or evacuating. They are not very intense but they are annoying, although very strong pain can appear at any time of the day (which is a symptom of a complication).

2. Presence of blood

The presence of blood in the rectum is an unequivocal symptom of hemorrhoids. Bleeding arises after evacuation or is evident when cleaning the region of the anus with toilet paper. They are small, bright red drops that do not cause severe pain.

3. Itch

Itching in the rectum due to hemorrhoids is due to inflammation of the area. It can be felt at any time of the day and at times it becomes intense and therefore very annoying. There are those who more than itch, feel burning or irritation.

4. Presence of a lump near the rectum

The presence of a lump in the rectal area usually causes alarm. It is normal for this strange volume to cause distress if its origin is unknown. It is a nodule that protrudes from the rectum, but the tissue usually returns to its place once the inflammation passes.

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Solutions

There are some simple solutions to treat external hemorrhoids. They are complicated and help reduce discomfort, but it is important to perform them properly and pay attention to the evolution in case there are any complications.

In most cases, it is enough to take proper care and resort to some home remedies. Otherwise, it is the proctologist who determines whether to resort to surgery. The truth is that between 20% and 30% of hemorrhoids end up requiring surgical treatment.

1. Ice

Applying ice to the rectum area is a simple treatment to reduce discomfort. Simply put ice around the area for 15 minutes. This helps reduce inflammation and anesthetizes a bit, causing momentary relief.

If there is a bulge, it can be tried to gently push it back into place, as long as this does not cause pain.

2. Sitz baths

Sitz baths are a very common home remedy for hemorrhoids. To perform this remedy you have to put warm water in a container and sit on it without underwear.

Cypress, horse chestnut, or Epsom salts can be added to help improve circulation. A daily sitz bath is recommended for 5 days.

3. Witch hazel ointment

Witch hazel ointment helps reduce inflammation, and just apply it in the rectum area. Witch hazel ointment can be purchased at any pharmacy, although one option is to make a homemade ointment.

To prepare it, boil the witch hazel with 60 ml of paraffin. It is then strained and 30 ml of glycerin are added. It should be applied when the resulting paste is completely cool.

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Bibliographic references

• Ellesmore, W. (2002). Surgical History of Haemorrhoids. In Charles MV. Surgical Treatment of Haemorrhoids. London: Springer.

• Kaidar-Person, O., Person, B. and Wexner, S.D. (2007). Hemorrhoidal disease: A comprehensive review "(PDF). Journal of the American College of Surgeons, 204 (1), 102–117.

• Lang, D.S., Tho, P.C. and Ang, E.N. (2011). Effectiveness of the Sitz bath in managing adult patients with anorectal disorders. Japan Journal of Nursing Science (JJNS), 8 (2), 115–128.