External hemorrhoids are swollen veins that form around the anus. They can be painful, itchy, and uncomfortable. While they are not usually dangerous, they can be a nuisance and can interfere with your daily life. There are a number of things you can do at home to remove external hemorrhoids, including:
Hemorrhoids are a common problem, affecting up to 50% of the population. They can be caused by a number of factors, including straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, and chronic constipation. External hemorrhoids are located outside the anus and can be seen and felt. They can be painful, itchy, and bleed.
How to Remove External Hemorrhoids at Home
Here are 8 important points to remember when removing external hemorrhoids at home:
- Sitz baths
- Cold compresses
- Over-the-counter creams
- Witch hazel
- Aloe vera
- Tea tree oil
- Healthy diet
- Fiber supplements
In most cases, external hemorrhoids can be removed at home with simple treatments. However, if your hemorrhoids are severe or do not respond to home treatment, you should see a doctor.
Sitz Baths
Sitz baths are a simple and effective way to relieve the pain and itching of external hemorrhoids. They can also help to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Fill a sitz bath with warm water. The water should be warm, but not hot. You can add Epsom salt or witch hazel to the water to help soothe the hemorrhoids.
- Sit in the sitz bath for 15-20 minutes. You can do this several times a day, as needed.
- Gently pat the area dry. Do not rub the hemorrhoids, as this can irritate them.
- Apply a cold compress to the area. This can help to reduce swelling and pain.
Sitz baths can be a very effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. They are simple to do and can be done at home. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from external hemorrhoids, try taking a sitz bath. You may be surprised at how much relief it provides.
Cold Compresses
Cold compresses can be used to reduce swelling and pain from external hemorrhoids. They can also help to numb the area and provide relief from itching.
To use a cold compress:
- Soak a clean cloth in cold water.
- Wring out the excess water.
- Apply the compress to the hemorrhoids for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Repeat several times a day, as needed.
You can also use a cold compress pack. These packs are available at most drugstores. To use a cold compress pack:
- Follow the instructions on the package.
- Apply the compress to the hemorrhoids for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Repeat several times a day, as needed.
Cold compresses can be a very effective way to relieve the pain and discomfort of external hemorrhoids. They are simple to use and can be done at home.
Tips for using cold compresses:
- Do not apply a cold compress to the hemorrhoids for more than 20 minutes at a time. This can damage the skin.
- If you have any open sores or wounds in the area, do not use a cold compress.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort from using a cold compress, stop using it immediately.
Cold compresses can be a very effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. They are simple to use and can be done at home. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from external hemorrhoids, try using a cold compress. You may be surprised at how much relief it provides.
Over-the-Counter Creams
Over-the-counter creams can be used to relieve the pain, itching, and swelling of external hemorrhoids. They can also help to protect the area from further irritation.
- Witch hazel cream. Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce swelling and itching. It can also help to numb the area and provide relief from pain.
- Hydrocortisone cream. Hydrocortisone is a corticosteroid that can help to reduce inflammation and itching. It is available in different strengths, so be sure to choose one that is appropriate for your condition.
- Lidocaine cream. Lidocaine is a local anesthetic that can help to numb the area and provide relief from pain. It is important to note that lidocaine cream should not be used for more than a few days at a time.
- Zinc oxide cream. Zinc oxide cream can help to protect the area from further irritation and promote healing.
When choosing an over-the-counter cream for external hemorrhoids, it is important to read the label carefully and choose one that is appropriate for your condition. You should also talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about using an over-the-counter cream for hemorrhoids.
Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that can help to reduce swelling and itching. It can also help to numb the area and provide relief from pain. Witch hazel can be used in a number of ways to treat external hemorrhoids:
- Witch hazel pads. Witch hazel pads are pre-moistened pads that are soaked in witch hazel extract. They can be applied directly to the hemorrhoids for quick relief.
- Witch hazel wipes. Witch hazel wipes are similar to witch hazel pads, but they are larger and can be used to clean the area around the hemorrhoids.
- Witch hazel soak. You can also add witch hazel to a sitz bath. This can help to relieve pain and itching and promote healing.
- Witch hazel ointment. Witch hazel ointment is a thick, creamy ointment that can be applied directly to the hemorrhoids. It can help to protect the area from further irritation and promote healing.
Witch hazel is a safe and effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. It is available over-the-counter in most drugstores. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from external hemorrhoids, try using witch hazel. You may be surprised at how much relief it provides.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is a succulent plant that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin conditions. It is also effective in treating external hemorrhoids.
Aloe vera contains a number of compounds that can help to reduce inflammation, pain, and itching. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, which can help to prevent infection.
To use aloe vera for external hemorrhoids, you can apply a gel or cream that contains aloe vera extract directly to the affected area. You can also use a fresh aloe vera leaf. To do this, cut open the leaf and apply the gel inside directly to the hemorrhoids.
Aloe vera can be used several times a day, as needed. It is important to note that aloe vera should not be used if you are allergic to it. You should also avoid using aloe vera if you have any open wounds or sores in the area.
Benefits of using aloe vera for external hemorrhoids:
- Reduces inflammation
- Relieves pain and itching
- Promotes healing
- Prevents infection
- Safe and effective
Aloe vera is a safe and effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. It is available over-the-counter in most drugstores. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from external hemorrhoids, try using aloe vera. You may be surprised at how much relief it provides.
Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is an essential oil that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of skin conditions. It is also effective in treating external hemorrhoids.
Tea tree oil has antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help to reduce swelling, pain, and itching. It can also help to promote healing and prevent infection.
To use tea tree oil for external hemorrhoids, you can add a few drops of the oil to a sitz bath. You can also apply a mixture of tea tree oil and coconut oil directly to the affected area. To do this, mix 1 drop of tea tree oil with 1 tablespoon of coconut oil. Apply the mixture to the hemorrhoids 2-3 times per day.
Tea tree oil can also be used in a suppository form. Tea tree oil suppositories can be purchased over-the-counter or made at home. To make a tea tree oil suppository, mix 1 drop of tea tree oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil. Pour the mixture into a mold and refrigerate until it hardens. Insert the suppository into the rectum once or twice per day.
Benefits of using tea tree oil for external hemorrhoids:
- Reduces inflammation
- Relieves pain and itching
- Promotes healing
- Prevents infection
- Safe and effective
Tea tree oil is a safe and effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. It is available over-the-counter in most drugstores. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort from external hemorrhoids, try using tea tree oil. You may be surprised at how much relief it provides.
Healthy Diet
Eating a healthy diet can help to prevent and treat external hemorrhoids. A healthy diet includes:
- Plenty of fiber. Fiber helps to keep stools soft and bulky, which makes them easier to pass. Good sources of fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
- Water. Drinking plenty of water helps to keep stools soft and prevent constipation. Aim for eight glasses of water per day.
- Fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber and antioxidants, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Lean protein. Lean protein helps to build and repair tissues. Good sources of lean protein include fish, chicken, beans, and lentils.
Avoiding certain foods can also help to prevent and treat external hemorrhoids. These foods include:
- Spicy foods. Spicy foods can irritate the digestive tract and make hemorrhoids worse.
- Caffeinated beverages. Caffeinated beverages can dehydrate you and make stools harder to pass.
- Alcohol. Alcohol can also dehydrate you and make stools harder to pass.
- Processed foods. Processed foods are often high in unhealthy fats, sodium, and sugar, which can all contribute to constipation and hemorrhoids.
Eating a healthy diet can help to prevent and treat external hemorrhoids. By eating plenty of fiber, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein, and avoiding spicy foods, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and processed foods, you can help to keep your stools soft and easy to pass. This can help to reduce the risk of developing external hemorrhoids and can also help to relieve symptoms if you already have them.
Fiber Supplements
Fiber supplements can be helpful in treating external hemorrhoids by adding bulk to the stool and making it softer and easier to pass. This can help to reduce straining during bowel movements, which can irritate hemorrhoids and make them worse.
There are two main types of fiber supplements: soluble and insoluble. Soluble fiber dissolves in water and forms a gel-like substance in the digestive tract. This helps to slow down digestion and make stools softer. Insoluble fiber does not dissolve in water and adds bulk to the stool. This helps to speed up the passage of stool through the digestive tract.
Both soluble and insoluble fiber are important for good digestive health. However, soluble fiber is generally more effective in treating hemorrhoids.
Fiber supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and gummies. You can also increase your fiber intake by eating foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
Benefits of using fiber supplements for external hemorrhoids:
- Softens stools
- Makes stools easier to pass
- Reduces straining during bowel movements
- Helps to prevent and treat hemorrhoids
Fiber supplements can be a safe and effective way to treat external hemorrhoids. However, it is important to start taking fiber supplements gradually to avoid side effects such as gas and abdominal pain. You should also drink plenty of water when taking fiber supplements.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about how to remove external hemorrhoids at home:
Question 1: What are the most common symptoms of external hemorrhoids?
Answer 1: The most common symptoms of external hemorrhoids are pain, itching, and swelling around the anus. You may also notice blood on toilet paper or in the stool.
Question 2: What are some simple home remedies for external hemorrhoids?
Answer 2: Some simple home remedies for external hemorrhoids include taking sitz baths, applying cold compresses, using over-the-counter creams, and taking fiber supplements. You can also try using witch hazel, aloe vera, or tea tree oil to relieve symptoms.
Question 3: How can I prevent external hemorrhoids?
Answer 3: You can help prevent external hemorrhoids by eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting regular exercise. You should also avoid straining during bowel movements and wiping too vigorously after using the bathroom.
Question 4: When should I see a doctor about external hemorrhoids?
Answer 4: You should see a doctor if you have severe pain, bleeding, or swelling. You should also see a doctor if home remedies do not relieve your symptoms within a few weeks.
Question 5: What are the treatment options for external hemorrhoids?
Answer 5: Treatment options for external hemorrhoids include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and surgery. Your doctor will recommend the best treatment option for you based on the severity of your symptoms.
Question 6: Can external hemorrhoids be prevented?
Answer 6: There is no sure way to prevent external hemorrhoids, but you can reduce your risk by eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting regular exercise. You should also avoid straining during bowel movements and wiping too vigorously after using the bathroom.
Question 7: Are external hemorrhoids curable?
Answer 7: External hemorrhoids can be cured with treatment. However, it is important to note that hemorrhoids can recur, so it is important to continue to follow preventive measures after treatment.
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These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about external hemorrhoids. If you have any other questions, please talk to your doctor.
Now that you know more about how to remove external hemorrhoids at home, you can start taking steps to relieve your symptoms and prevent them from coming back.
Tips
Here are four practical tips for removing external hemorrhoids at home:
Tip 1: Take sitz baths. Sitz baths are warm water baths that can help to relieve pain, itching, and swelling. To take a sitz bath, fill a bathtub or sitz bath basin with warm water and sit in it for 15-20 minutes. You can add Epsom salt or witch hazel to the water to help soothe the hemorrhoids.
Tip 2: Apply cold compresses. Cold compresses can help to reduce swelling and pain. To use a cold compress, soak a clean cloth in cold water and apply it to the hemorrhoids for 15-20 minutes at a time. You can repeat this several times a day, as needed.
Tip 3: Use over-the-counter creams. There are a number of over-the-counter creams that can be used to relieve the pain and itching of external hemorrhoids. These creams typically contain ingredients such as witch hazel, aloe vera, or hydrocortisone. Be sure to read the label carefully and choose a cream that is appropriate for your condition.
Tip 4: Take fiber supplements. Fiber supplements can help to soften stools and make them easier to pass. This can help to reduce straining during bowel movements, which can irritate hemorrhoids and make them worse. Fiber supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, and gummies. You can also increase your fiber intake by eating foods that are high in fiber, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
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By following these tips, you can help to relieve the symptoms of external hemorrhoids and prevent them from coming back.
If you have tried these tips and your hemorrhoids are still not improving, you should see a doctor. There are a number of other treatments available for external hemorrhoids, including rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and surgery.
Conclusion
External hemorrhoids are a common problem, but they can be treated at home with simple remedies. By following the tips in this article, you can help to relieve the pain, itching, and swelling of external hemorrhoids and prevent them from coming back.
Summary of Main Points:
- Sitz baths, cold compresses, and over-the-counter creams can help to relieve the symptoms of external hemorrhoids.
- Fiber supplements can help to soften stools and make them easier to pass, which can help to prevent and treat hemorrhoids.
- Eating a healthy diet, drinking plenty of water, and getting regular exercise can help to prevent hemorrhoids.
- If home remedies do not relieve your symptoms within a few weeks, you should see a doctor.
Closing Message:
Hemorrhoids are a common problem, but they can be managed with proper treatment. By following the tips in this article, you can help to relieve your symptoms and prevent hemorrhoids from coming back.