External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids are when swollen veins around the anus form a soft lump under the skin.

These are usually quite painful because the skin tissue around the anus is rich with nerve endings

External hemorrhoids may itch or bleed when irritated.

Sometimes blood may pool within the hemorrhoid, forming a clot and becoming hard. This is known as a thrombus or thrombosed external hemorrhoid. This results in swelling and considerable pain.

You should seek immediate medical attention if you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid. The doctor will likely perform a minor surgical procedure to remove the clot and perhaps some of the surrounding tissue.

Natural treatments are available for external hemorrhoids and are described in our review section.