External Hemorrhoid
What are External Hemorrhoids?
External hemorrhoids are swollen and painful veins located around the anus. They are caused by increased pressure in the abdomen, which causes veins around the anus to swell and bulge. This increased pressure can be caused by straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, chronic constipation, obesity, pregnancy, and aging. When a clump of these veins become swollen and inflamed, they can cause itching, discomfort, and pain. External hemorrhoids can become quite painful if left untreated. In severe cases, they can cause life-threatening complications such as anemia, sepsis, and even death.
How are External Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?
External hemorrhoids can be easily identified by your healthcare provider during an examination. During the exam, they will check the area around your anus for signs of external hemorrhoids, including:
- Pain or tenderness
- A lump or “lump” in the anal area
- Inflammation or redness
- Discharge of blood or pus
If your healthcare provider suspects that you have external hemorrhoids, they may order additional tests, including an imaging test like an MRI or CT scan, to confirm the diagnosis.
How are External Hemorrhoids Treated?
Treatment will depend on the severity of your external hemorrhoids. Mild cases can usually be managed with conservative self-care measures such as over-the-counter topical creams, warm baths, and sitz baths. Severe cases may require more intensive treatments, such as sclerotherapy or rubber band ligation. In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the external hemorrhoids.
It is important to speak with your healthcare provider about all your options for treating external hemorrhoids. They can provide personalized advice to help you find the treatment plan that is best for you.