External Hemorrhoids

Every once in a while, someone has a problem with hemorrhoids, but they don’t know just what it is. They know they are uncomfortable and that it hurts and burns when they go to the bathroom, but they don’t really know what’s causing all the pain, itching, and burning. They may even feel a bulge outside their rectum when they wipe, but they don’t realize that what they are feeling is most likely an external hemorrhoid.

External hemorrhoids may be more painful and obvious than internal hemorrhoids because they are in an area that actually has more nerve endings and can feel pain easier. Hemorrhoids like these are usually caused by a vein becoming irritated, swollen, and sore. Sometimes it may bleed, which can be very scary. If you have any rectal bleeding, then you need to see your doctor, because there is a chance that it is from a problem other than hemorrhoids. It could be a more serious and potentially life-threatening problem such as cancer. Being evaluated by your doctor can allow you to have peace of mind and know if you simply have a bothersome hemorrhoid.

Sometimes, if you have had internal hemorrhoids, the vein that is swollen may become squeezed through the rectal opening. You may mistakenly think that it is external, but if you push it back through, you will see that you were wrong. It was simply an internal hemorrhoid that was sticking out.
Some people have the mistaken idea that external hemorrhoids can turn into cancer. There is scientific evidence that this is not true and is an unreasonable fear. Though both are located in the same area, colorectal cancer and hemorrhoids have no connection with each other.

There are some dangers that this type of hemorrhoid may present. If it becomes thrombosed with a clot developing in it, then you will need immediate medical attention. Hemorrhoids which have formed a blood clot need to be taken care of, usually with hemorrhoid surgery, almost immediately. How will you know if it has clotted? The pain will be so unbearable, you will know that you need to see a doctor.

Treating this kind of hemorrhoid with natural remedies is fairly easy and inexpensive. Even just taking a warm bath will help soothe the itching, burning, and pain. Applying a small amount of aloe vera gel to the area will offer you some comfort and healing. You can also take over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammation remedies.

Recognizing a hemorrhoid may take some evaluation. Have you been constipated? Have you noticed any tingling, itching, or burning when you have a bowel movement? If the answer is “yes,” then you may have a small hemorrhoid. If you can feel any swelling or a bulge at the rectal opening, the hemorrhoid is most likely external.