A protruding hemorrhoid is a mass of swollen skin and veins that extends through the anus and can be seen on the outside of the body. Straining to have a bowel movement, constipation, and pregnancy are a few things that can put pressure on the veins around the lower rectum and anus. This can cause redness and inflammation of the skin. If the hemorrhoid is located inside the anus, it is known as an internal hemorrhoid. A protruding hemorrhoid located under the skin surrounding the anus is considered an external hemorrhoid.
An external or protruding hemorrhoid can cause a hard lump in the anus. This is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid and is actually a blood clot. When this happens, it can lead to severe swelling, pain, and intense itching. Excessive scratching and cleaning around the anus can also cause mucus to drain from the lower rectum and increase itching symptoms.
There are numerous treatments available to shrink a protruding hemorrhoid. Examples include constantly soaking in a warm bath and applying hemorrhoid ointment to the lower rectal area. Adding fiber and increasing your daily water intake can help ease bowel movements, reducing straining and constipation. These treatments are used to relieve the initial symptoms of a bulging hemorrhoid, but further medical attention may be needed if the symptoms do not stop.
If the protruding hemorrhoid cannot be relieved with available treatments, there are surgical methods that can help shrink or remove it altogether. An elastic band can be secured around the bottom of the hemorrhoid to cut off circulation so that it shrinks and disappears within a few days. An infrared coagulation is a surgery in which a device is used to burn off the hemorrhoids. Certain chemicals can be injected around the blood vessels that surround the anus, helping to shrink the swollen areas. Protruding internal and external hemorrhoids that cannot be relieved by other methods are usually removed surgically.
Hemorrhoids can be prevented by eating a diet rich in fiber and by including fruits and vegetables in daily meals. Having routine eating schedules that limit calorie intake can eliminate indigestion that can cause straining or constipation. Daily exercise can increase metabolism, which helps reduce digestive conditions in the stomach that can lead to elimination difficulties. Reducing the time you spend sitting and participating in more physical activities also helps prevent hemorrhoids.