External hemorrhoids affect many people around the globe on a daily basis. Hemorrhoids are extremely common, yet most people do not realize that they have them until the hemorrhoids become swollen and irritated. External hemorrhoids are caused by pressure around hemorrhoidal veins on the outside of the anal region. This is the reason why hemorrhoids swell and become painfully inflamed.

The increase in pressure resulting in external hemorrhoids can be a due to several different factors. The most common things that increase the likelihood of the development of inflamed hemorrhoids include the following: Pregnancy, straining during bowel movements, anal sex, obesity, lack of fiber, and constipation. Most of these factors are preventable and should be avoided in attempting to reduce likelihood of painful and swollen hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are also caused by old age.

Some of the easiest ways to prevent external hemorrhoids is to take in a lot of fiber daily. By increasing your fiber intake you will be able to pass your stool easier because the fiber will soften the stool. By softening the stool it will allow the stool to pass more freely and you won’t have to push or strain as much when going to the bathroom. Another is to empty your bowls as soon as you get the urge to go. Holding it in just causes more pressure on the veins and will cause them to swell faster.

There are other ways to modify one’s behavior to reduce the impact of external hemorrhoids. Avoiding anal sex is practical, as is daily exercise and consuming fruits and vegetables. This can help with cutting down on constipation. Those who still suffer from constipation shouldn’t strain themselves, as this can just make the problem worse.

One word of caution when discussing external hemorrhoids is if at any time blood appears in the stool, then a qualified physician should be seen immediately. While the blood could be from external hemorrhoids (and often is a common symptom of the more advanced forms) it can also be a sign of more serious problems such as rectal cancer and digestive conditions. Therefore, seeing a doctor immediately is the best course of action.

As shown, external hemorrhoids can be painful, but treating them can be simple and easy. A sitz bath, for example, is a commonly-used treatment that involves soaking the external hemorrhoids in warm water. Over the counter creams and medicated ointments are also effective. They are varied and plentiful and affordable for temporary relief. Ice packs are another cheap and effective way to counter the pain and swelling that comes with external hemorrhoids.

One thing that should not be used, however, is ibuprofen. Ibuprofen can cause constipation, which is bad for a hemorrhoid. Tylenol is the best over the counter pain reliever to use on the market today. No matter what treatment is used, though, the most important thing to remember is this: One should act immediately, regardless of how minor the symptoms may be. This can often make the difference between mild external hemorrhoids and severe ones.