What exactly is a 'thrombosed' external hemorrhoid? In the simplest of terms, it is an external hemorrhoid in which there is a blood clot. Okay, so just exactly how does a blood clot wind up inside your skin? It's truly more common than would be thought. Blood that sits around and does not move will clot and venal blood through the lower body require a combination of muscular actions to return to the heart. When a person does not move much, blood can stay put for hours or days and blood that does not move clots. Though they can occur at most any time in life, thrombosed external hemorrhoids tend to prey on young adults and pregnant women.

Anyone who develops a thrombosed external hemorrhoid (TEH) will know about it. (Thrombosis is a fancy expression for blood clot.) What distinguishes the TEH is the color. Think black and blue - highlighted with dark purple and deep red. Not a pretty sight!

How do you treat one of these things? Sometimes a TEH will heal itself. It is best, however, to consult a doctor. In the event your doctor's appointment is delayed, here are some suggestions to help during the waiting time.

• A sitz bath can offer great relief for a thrombosed external hemorrhoid. Sit in one or two inches of the hottest water you can comfortably tolerate for about twenty minutes two or three times a day.
• For additional relief, after the sitz bath, sit on an ice pack wrapped in a towel. Switching from heat to cold will help get the blood flowing again and help with inflammation.
• Ibuprofen, if tolerated, helps with the pain and also offers anti-inflammatory assistance.

Keep in mind, though a thrombosed external hemorrhoid can make life miserable, they can be controlled. Once you understand how they develop, you are then in a position to take steps and avoid the situation.


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