Using over the counter ointments creams can help reduce any irritation by effectively numbing the area. The active ingredient in these treatments is a steroid called hydrocortisone. The percentage of hydrocortisone is very small, but you shouldn’t use the ointments for longer than advised on the packaging.
Regular warm baths or soaking in a Sitz bath can help relieve the symptoms of external piles. If the irritation gets really bad, then using ice packs around the area can bring immediate relief.
For extreme pain that may be caused by thrombosed piles, over the counter pain killers are the only option for temporary relief.
As with any sort of haemorrhoid, a change to a high fibre diet will help keep the haemorrhoid from becoming inflamed. This is due to the healthy, regular bowel movements that are promoted through a healthy diet.