External hemorrhoids appear on the outside of the anus and are painful, swollen and hard. This thrombosed hemorrhoid is due to a blood clot in the anal region. The pain can be severe, subsiding only after three to seven days. External hemorrhoids are much more painful than internal ones. According to the American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons, a thrombosed hemorrhoid may rupture and bleed if continued pressure is placed on the rectum. There are a number of ways to reduce the pain and swelling of a thrombosed hemorrhoid at home, but medical treatment may be necessary if the pain becomes unbearable.
Step 1
Evaluate your diet and fluid intake. Consuming too little fluids or fiber can lead to hardened stools that are difficult to pass. Pressure placed on the rectum is responsible for creating a thrombosed hemorrhoid. Many foods are high in fiber, such as green leafy vegetables and whole-grain foods. Eating too much fiber without enough fluid can also lead to difficulty in passing stool.
Step 2
Increase your physical activity. According to MotherNature.com, 20 minutes of physical activity every day minimizes hemorrhoid outbreaks.
Step 3
Run a bath of about two to three inches of warm water. Pour in about a cup of epsom salts. Soak in the tub for 10 to 15 minutes. The warmth can reduce the pain, encourage relaxation and aid in cleansing the sensitive area. Repeat this bath as often as relief is desired.
Step 4
Dry the area well and apply witch hazel with a cotton ball. The witch hazel reduces pain and itching, according to MotherNature.com.
Step 5
Take pain relievers or anti-inflammatory medications as often as necessary, according to the directions on the label.
Step 6
Apply an ice pack to the hemorrhoid frequently to reduce swelling and numb pain. This can be repeated as often as pain relief is desired.
Tips and Warnings
- Try a stool softener or fiber product. Passing hard stools while a hemorrhoid is inflamed leads to more pain and swelling. Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams and wipes are available and can assist in pain relief.
- It's best to schedule an appointment with your medical care provider for assistance in treating a thrombosed hemorrhoid. These home remedies can be helpful in reducing pain while waiting for the appointment but should not be used in place of medical attention. According to Hemorrhoidshemroids.com, thrombosed external hemorrhoids are so painful they fall into the same category of pain as childbirth and kidney stones. Bleeding of the anus, hemorrhoid or in the stool requires medical attention.
Things You'll Need
- Epsom salts
- Witch hazel
- Cotton balls
- Ice pack
