With the veins of the rectum or anus being inflamed due to excessive straining, hemorrhoids occurs.  Based on the location of the hemorrhoids there are two types, respectively as internal and external hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are generally occurred just beneath the skin surrounding the anus. Treating external hemorrhoids is possible with some prescribed medications as well as external hemorrhoid cream and other non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment procedures and a few lifestyle adjustments.

Symptoms of external hemorrhoids

There is a wide array of symptoms that can be identified with external hemorrhoids. These symptoms may vary as per the severity of the condition. Some of the common symptoms of external hemorrhoids include the following:

•  Swelling and itching in the rectal area or anus.

•  Pain in the anal area aggravated by sitting.

•  Formation of lumps in the anal area.

•  Bleeding from the area.

By noticing signs of blood stain in the stool or seeing blood on toilet paper can be an indication of hemorrhoid. Swelling lumps around the anus is another common symptom. But in any case, before being examined by the doctor you should not decide on the visible symptoms and consider yourself to have hemorrhoid. In treating external hemorrhoids reducing these symptoms are given most importance with the progress of the treatment.

Causes of external hemorrhoids

There are diverse factors related to the occurrence of Hemorrhoids. Repeated and severe straining due to difficulty in having a smooth bowel movement is the principal cause of external hemorrhoids in majority of cases. Straining due to difficulty in passing the hard stools actually results in severe pressure on the veins of the anal area. Repeated pressure on these veins causes swelling, enlargement and formation of lumps with these veins. Besides, regular effects of constipation and straining pregnant women are more vulnerable to hemorrhoids because of the increased pressure of uterus exerted on the veins and some hormonal changes that aggravate constipation.

Over the counter pain relievers for external hemorrhoids

There are countless over the counter treatments for hemorrhoids including some of the best ointment for hemorrhoids. It has been seen that people are reluctant to visit doctor unless stains of bleeding is observed or a great deal of pain is experienced.

There are diverse types of over-the-counter medications that contain the steroid hydrocortisone and recommended widely for hemorrhoid therapy. Most of these non-surgical hemorrhoid therapies come as a rectal cream, external hemorrhoid cream, ointment, pad etc. for topical application. When applying hydrocortisone rectal cream the patient may be prescribed to avoid urinating and having bowel movement for few hours after as the medication need time to take effect.

There are also over-the-counter pain medications that contain acetaminophen offering relief from the discomfort and pain caused by external hemorrhoids. This is an oral medication used extensively to decrease the pain, though it cannot decrease symptoms like itching.

Over the counter medications also include skin numbing ingredients like Pramoxine and lidocaine that help reducing the anal pain by numbing the area. These anesthetic solutions available as over-the-counter ointments and creams can ease away the pain and soothe hemorrhoids.

Natural home remedies for pain relief

Cold compress with a pack of ice can help decreasing swelling and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids. Applying a wrapped ice cube in a cloth on the area surrounding the anus for 5 to 10 minutes can be great pain reliever. Warm baths also known as Sitz baths can also provide immediate relief from the pain and itching sensation. Sitting in a reclining position in a bath tub filled with warm water for 10 to 15 minutes at a time can also sooth the pain. For best results do this several times a day.

Recent research on natural ingredients like tea tree oil revealed its benefits for reducing inflammation and soothing pain of hemorrhoids. As the ingredient is very strong before applying it is recommended to dilute the oil with mild carrier oil like castor oil or sweet almond oil. Always apply the oil with soft and clean cotton swab.

Treatment with lifestyle adjustments

Constipation is the prime cause of hemorrhoids in majority of cases. Straining to pass the bowels aggravate the hemorrhoid pain and worsen the swelling condition. Naturally, by consuming fiber rich foods and by other ways you need to ensure smooth bowel movement. Hard lumpy stool, prolonged constipation and irregular bowel movement all contributes to hemorrhoids (http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/tc/understanding-hemorrhoids-basics).

We require consuming at least 25 to 30 grams of fiber each day. Fiber because of more fluid absorption capacity needs to be accompanied with good amount of water and beverages. While fiber intake regularizes the bowel movement and relieves constipation, fluid intake prevents dehydration and smoothen stool.

Avoid sitting for long hours as prolonged sitting causes more pressure on the swelling veins and the anal area. Sit for short duration followed by movement or other body postures. Even when you are having difficulty in passing stools do not sit for long time in the toilet and avoid straining.