Thrombosed External Hemorrhoid Treatment
What is a thrombosed external hemorrhoid?
A thrombosed external hemorrhoid is a blood clot that can be seen and felt under the skin around the anus area. They could be hard or soft. The pain produced can range from moderate to severe.
What causes a thrombosed external hemorrhoid?
While they can appear on their own, this type of hemorrhoids can be due to
- pregnancy
- chronic constipation
- diarrhea
How can I treat a thrombosed external hemorrhoid?
There are two main types of treatments for thrombosed external hemorrhoids. They are home treatments and surgical treatments. Some of the common home treatments for hemorrhoids include:
- Hydrate yourself with 8 glasses of water per day
- Use wet toilet paper to carefully clean yourself
- Take sitz baths with warm water numerous times throughout the day
- Do NOT strain when defecating
- Use laxatives and stool softeners for constipation
- Take in fiber by way of fruits and vegetables
- Exercise regularly
- Try over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams
Some of the common surgical treatments for thrombosed external hemorrhoids include:
Hemorrhoidectomy – Hemorrhoids are surgically removed with a tool such as a scalpel or laser
Rubber band ligation – A band that is tied at the base of the hemorrhoid cuts off blood supply and the hemorrhoid shrivels up and falls in just days
Infrared coagulation – The thrombosed hemorrhoid is burnt off by the use of infrared light
Injection sclerotherapy – A chemical solution is inserted in the mucous membrane of the anal area and the veins experience inflammation and close, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink
What happens during hemorrhoidectomy?
The doctor will create a cut in the clot and squeeze out the clotted hemorrhoid. However, this is not a complete hemorrhoidectomy. A complete hemorrhoidectomy also consists of removing the blood vessels int eh affected area. Although this procedure is rather painful, it yields for better and longer results. A dressing over the wound will be applied to soak up any leakage.
What happens after the hemorroidectomy for thrombosed external hemorrhoids?
- Because the surgery cut might get infected, you will have to apply an antibiotic for a week.
- You will experience pain after the anesthetic wears off. You will be prescribed something to relieve it. Tylenol and Advil are also recommended. However, aspirin-based products must be avoided as they promote bleeding.
- To help with discomfort, take sitz baths with plain water several times during the day.
Recommended Diet
Drink lots of water and eat foods high in fiber.