What Are External Hemorrhoids?
External hemorrhoids are a common and painful condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by swollen veins beneath the skin around the anus, they can cause severe discomfort, irritation, and even bleeding. While home remedies and lifestyle changes can offer temporary relief, many individuals seek advanced, lasting solutions — and that’s where Laserqure, a trusted name in laser anorectal surgery, stands out.
External hemorrhoids can cause significant pain, swelling, and inflammation, especially when a blood clot forms in these veins. Clotted hemorrhoids, also known as thrombosed hemorrhoids, often result in intense pain and discomfort. In such cases, surgical procedures may be needed to remove the clot and relieve symptoms.
Today’s focus is on answering the question: “How do you get rid of external hemorrhoids?”
According to Research, haemorrhoidal disease ranks first among conditions affecting the rectum and large intestine. The global prevalence is estimated to be between 2.9% and 27.9%, with over 4% of individuals showing noticeable symptoms.
In today’s world, a large number of people suffer from hemorrhoids —primarily due to poor dietary habits and unhealthy lifestyles. Unfortunately, most over-the-counter medications offer only temporary relief and are not always sufficient to resolve the condition.
Symptoms of external hemorrhoids:
External hemorrhoids occur under the skin around the anus and can cause a variety of uncomfortable and visible symptoms. Recognizing these signs early can lead to effective management and faster relief.
Pain or Discomfort:
Pain is one of the most typical signs of external hemorrhoids, particularly when sitting or having bowel movements. This discomfort may range from mild to severe, depending on the size and condition of the hemorrhoid.
Itching or Irritation:
Persistent itching or irritation around the anal area is often reported. This occurs due to inflammation and moisture in the affected region.
Swelling or Lump:
A tiny bump or swelling close to the anus could be an indication of external hemorrhoids. In some cases, the lump may become hard and tender, especially if a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid) forms.
Bleeding:
Following a bowel movement, bright red blood may be observed on the stool’s surface, in the toilet bowl, or on the toilet paper. This is usually painless but can be alarming.
Discharge:
Some individuals may experience a mucus-like discharge or slight leakage from the anus, which can cause further irritation or staining of undergarments.
Although external hemorrhoids can be painful and distressing, they are treatable. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and proper medical care can help manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications. For the right therapy, it’s critical to see a healthcare professional if symptoms intensify or continue.
Home Remedies for Piles/hemorrhoids
With a few lifestyle adjustments and easy fixes, hemorrhoids, also known as external piles, can often be treated at home despite their pain and discomfort. Here are some effective home-based solutions that may help relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups:
Increase Fiber Intake:
Maintaining regular bowel movements and avoiding constipation, which is a major hemorrhoid trigger, require a high-fiber diet. Increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains softens stools, facilitating passage and lessening the strain associated with defecation.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. Adequate hydration helps keep the digestive system functioning smoothly and ensures that stools remain soft, minimizing the risk of constipation and reducing pressure on rectal veins.
Warm Baths with Epsom Salt:
Soaking in a sitz bath—warm water mixed with Epsom salt—can provide significant relief from the discomfort of external piles. This helps reduce inflammation, soothes itching, and relaxes the anal muscles, promoting healing and comfort.
Avoid Toilet Paper:
The delicate skin surrounding the anus may become irritated by dry toilet paper. Instead, opt for fragrance-free moist wipes or gently rinse with water after bowel movements. This lessens the chance of aggravating pre-existing hemorrhoids as well as friction and inflammation.
Apply Cold Compress:
Using ice packs or cold compresses on the affected area helps reduce swelling and provides immediate relief from pain, itching, or burning sensations. Wrap the ice in a soft cloth and apply it for 10–15 minutes, several times a day.
Avoid Spicy Food:
Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system and worsen symptoms like itching, burning, and discomfort. During flare-ups, it’s best to stick to a bland, high-fiber diet that supports healthy digestion and softens stools.
Use Over-the-Counter Ointments:
Topical treatments like creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or natural ingredients like witch hazel can help relieve pain, itching, and inflammation. These products provide immediate, localized relief and are commonly accessible.
Don’t Hold or Strain:
When the desire strikes, don’t put it off because doing so can result in hard stools. Also, never strain during defecation, as this puts extra pressure on the anal veins and can worsen existing hemorrhoids or cause new ones to develop.
Incorporating these remedies into your daily routine can greatly reduce discomfort and promote healing from external piles. Regularly applying cold compresses, avoiding spicy foods, using soothing ointments, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can lead to noticeable relief. By consistently following these practices, individuals with external piles can experience improved symptoms and lower the risk of future flare-ups, ensuring better long-term anal and digestive health
Surgical Procedures/Treatments
Although moderate hemorrhoids can be adequately managed with lifestyle modifications, home remedies, and pharmaceuticals, in certain circumstances, medical intervention may be necessary. When symptoms persist or worsen, doctors may recommend surgical or minimally invasive procedures for lasting relief.
Conventional Surgery:
Traditional haemorrhoid surgery, known as haemorrhoidectomy, involves the surgical removal of swollen and inflamed tissue. This method is highly effective, especially for severe or recurring hemorrhoids. However, it typically requires a hospital stay and involves a longer recovery period, with patients experiencing post-operative pain and discomfort for several weeks.
Laser Treatment:
Laser hemorrhoid surgery is becoming a more popular option than traditional techniques. Using focused laser beams, surgeons can remove or shrink the haemorrhoidal tissue with high precision. This technique causes minimal damage to surrounding tissues, resulting in less pain, reduced bleeding, and quicker recovery. Laser treatment is usually done on a daycare basis, meaning patients can return home the same day. Its safety, efficiency, and shorter healing time have made it increasingly popular among both patients and healthcare professionals.
Post-Surgery Care:
Regardless of the treatment method, proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure successful healing and prevent recurrence. Patients are advised to follow a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, maintain proper anal hygiene, and avoid straining during bowel movements. Regular follow-ups and adherence to medical advice further enhance recovery and long-term results
What is Hemorrhoidectomy?
A surgical operation called a hemorrhoidectomy is done expressly to eliminate hemorrhoids. Typically, it is recommended in the following circumstances:
- Symptomatic Grade III or IV hemorrhoids
- Combined internal and external hemorrhoids
- Strangulated internal hemorrhoids
- Some cases of thrombosed external hemorrhoids
- When minimally invasive techniques are ineffective or intolerable
During the procedure, small incisions are made around the anus to excise the hemorrhoids . Depending on the patient’s condition, the procedure may be done under regional anesthesia (numbing the surgical area while the patient remains awake) or general anesthesia (the patient is asleep). Hemorrhoidectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, enabling patients to go home the same day.
Recovery After Haemorrhoid Surgery
Recovery typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks, but it can extend to 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient’s overall health, comorbidities, type of procedure performed, and the surgeon’s expertise.
Postoperative Care Tips:
Post-Surgery Recovery Tips:
After undergoing external haemorrhoid surgery, it’s crucial to follow proper post-operative care to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Begin by taking adequate rest at home for at least five days to allow your body to heal. Use sitz baths twice a day to ease the surgical site and lower inflammation, particularly after bowel movements.
Avoid any intense physical activities or heavy lifting for up to six weeks to prevent strain on the rectal area. Stick to a bland, fiber-rich diet and strictly avoid oily and spicy foods, which can irritate the bowels. Good hygiene is essential—keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection. Most importantly, prevent constipation by staying hydrated and taking stool softeners if recommended.
Preparation Before Surgery:
If you’re scheduled for surgery, keep these precautions in mind. Inform your physician about all of your medications, including vitamins, supplements, and blood thinners. You will be required to fast—no food or drink—after midnight before your surgery day.
For best surgical outcomes, it’s advised to stop smoking and alcohol at least a month prior to the procedure. Lastly, arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery, as you may be unable to do so yourself.
Although enemas or rectal suppositories are not routinely prescribed, you are encouraged to have a natural bowel movement before arriving at the hospital.
By understanding the nature of hemorrhoids, External Piles, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing the range of treatment options available—from home remedies to surgical procedures—patients can take proactive steps toward relief and recovery. External hemorrhoids may be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, they can be effectively treated and prevented.
Final Thoughts:
External hemorrhoids can significantly impact your daily life, causing pain, embarrassment, and disruption. While home remedies may help temporarily, modern medical advances such as laser piles surgery offer a long-term, effective solution.
Laserqure in Hyderabad stands as a beacon of excellence in the treatment of piles and anorectal disorders, offering precise, painless, and patient-friendly laser solutions. Don’t let external hemorrhoids control your life — reach out to Laserqure today and take the first step toward pain-free relief.
Book your consultation today at Laserqure and experience advanced care for external hemorrhoids. Your comfort is our priority.
