Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the areas of your anus and your lower rectum. No single issue leads to this condition, and in many cases, an individual may have no idea that something is wrong. If you experience a thrombosed hemorrhoid, a clot in a swollen vein, you may experience pain, and you can potentially see signs of swelling or a lump.

Hemorrhoid cases can refer to internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are those that occur in your rectum. Because there are few pain-sensing nerves in the rectum, you may not feel any symptoms, though you may experience bleeding when you poop. Straining has the potential to send your internal hemorrhoid through the anal opening - this can result in a prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid. External hemorrhoids occur below the skin of your anus. You may experience symptoms like bleeding, along with irritation. Because the anus has more nerves that detect pain, external hemorrhoids can cause more discomfort.

Hemorrhoids pose little risk, and they are a common issue. With that said, they can lead to the presence of blood in your stool, something that your doctor should evaluate. Bleeding during pooping can be a symptom of many other worrying conditions, including diverticulitis, Crohn's disease, and colorectal cancer. If you want to reduce your risk for hemorrhoids, you can increase your intake of fiber, drink more fluids, avoid straining when you have a bowel movement, and take care not to sit for prolonged periods during the day. Hemorrhoids are more likely to be experienced by those who are pregnant, elderly, or obese.

Common Symptoms

• Bleeding During Bowel Movements
• Pain or Irritation Around the Anus
• Lumps or Swelling Around the Anus