Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that are located in the anus or lower rectum. Their appearance varies depending on the type, severity, and whether they are internal or external. Hemorrhoids are often caused by prolonged sitting, straining during bowel movements, or other factors that increase pressure on the veins in the lower rectum. While some may appear as small, skin-colored bumps, others can be red, swollen, or even range from bluish to black if blood has pooled in the area.
There are several hemorrhoid types, such as internal, external, prolapsed, thrombosed, and mixed. Every kind of hemorrhoid has a different appearance and set of symptoms.
What Does an Internal Hemorrhoid Look Like?
Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that can develop inside the anal canal or in the lower rectum. Since internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum, they are generally not visible to the naked eye. In some cases, especially during a bowel movement, internal hemorrhoids may protrude through the anus, appearing as moist, pinkish lumps. These are known as prolapsed hemorrhoids, which may cause other symptoms such as swelling, discomfort, or irritation around the anus.
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What Does an External Hemorrhoid Look Like?
External hemorrhoids are visible lumps outside the anus that are typically more noticeable than internal ones, appearing as soft lumps or bulges and ranging in color from skin-toned to red or purple. External hemorrhoids are more likely to look purplish if they are thrombosed, meaning that blood has pooled in the vein and clotted, causing pain and swelling.
This type of hemorrhoid may resemble and is often misdiagnosed as such. External hemorrhoids are generally located at the outer edge of the anus and can be felt easily. In severe cases, they may become swollen or irritated, causing increased pain and itching.
Signs You May Have a Hemorrhoid
Whether you have internal or external hemorrhoids, the symptoms you experience may vary depending on the type and severity.
Some common signs of a hemorrhoid include:
- Bright red blood during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- A palpable or visible lump near the anus
- A feeling of pressure or rectal fullness
- Pain or discomfort while sitting or passing stool
In the early stages, the signs of a hemorrhoid may be minimal and mistaken for other minor conditions. However, advanced hemorrhoids, especially those that are prolapsed or , are easier to identify, often showing symptoms like pain or irritation to a more intense degree. Early-stage internal hemorrhoids rarely show visible signs, making it even more important to recognize subtle symptoms and consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment plan.
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What Does a Hemorrhoid Feel Like?
External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and often cause noticeable discomfort or pain, especially when sitting for long periods or during bowel movements. This area is rich in pain-sensing nerves, which is why an external hemorrhoid can cause a sharp or throbbing pain accompanied by itching or irritation. Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum, which is part of the lower intestine. The lining of the rectum is not sensitive to pain, touch, or temperature, which is why they tend to be painless. You may only notice them through symptoms such as rectal bleeding or a feeling of fullness in the rectum, making them harder to detect without consulting a hemorrhoid specialist.
Hemorrhoids in Women vs Men: Is There a Difference?
Hemorrhoids typically present with similar appearances and symptoms in both women and men. However, women may be more prone to developing either external or internal hemorrhoids during pregnancy due to increased pelvic pressure, hormonal changes, and straining during labor. The visual appearance of hemorrhoids in women is not significantly different from that in men.
What Does a Hemorrhoid Look Like on a Woman During Pregnancy?
Pregnancy-related hemorrhoids often appear as visible, swollen lumps near the anus, especially in the third trimester or postpartum period. These hemorrhoids may develop externally or internally and are commonly irritated by the pressure from the growing uterus.
When to Seek Help for Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are classified into four stages. This classification can help you recognize the signs of a hemorrhoid, so you know when to consult a specialist about a potential diagnosis.
The four hemorrhoid stages include:
- Grade 1: These are milder and often cause a small amount of bleeding as well as occasional anal itching.
- Grade 2: Hemorrhoids in this stage may come out of the rectum during bowel movements, causing pain along with other internal hemorrhoid symptoms such as bleeding and increased irritation around the anal area.
- Grade 3: Internal hemorrhoids represent a significant stage of the condition where the hemorrhoidal tissue prolapses, or protrudes, from the anal canal during straining or a bowel movement. Unlike Grade 2 hemorrhoids, which spontaneously retract, Grade 3 hemorrhoids require manual reduction by the patient to be repositioned back inside the anal canal. Symptoms include significant pain, especially while sitting, inflammation, and intense irritation of the anal area.
- Grade 4: These are the most severe and are unable to be pushed back inside the anus, causing them to be very painful. Along with persistent pain and ongoing bleeding, stage 4 hemorrhoids may lead to thrombosis (blood clot formation).
While mild cases may resolve on their own, do not ignore persistent symptoms, such as pain, bleeding, or noticeable changes in appearance. If hemorrhoid symptoms begin interfering with your life, it’s time to seek expert care. Untreated hemorrhoids can lead to complications like thrombosis, infection, or chronic irritation.
Early diagnosis can prevent these complications and allow you more options for treatment, including hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE). The diagnosis of hemorrhoids is generally a well-tolerated process. While hemorrhoids themselves can cause pain, particularly when thrombosed or prolapsed, the diagnostic process typically involves visual and physical examinations that are not inherently painful.
HAE is a non-surgical procedure specifically for internal hemorrhoids, offering relief from uncomfortable hemorrhoid symptoms like itching and rectal bleeding. With a high success rate and minimal risk of side effects, HAE is a good alternative to some of the more invasive hemorrhoid treatments like hemorrhoid removal surgery.
Why Choose USA Hemorrhoid Centers for Diagnosis and Care
If you think you are showing any potential signs of a hemorrhoid, the specialists at USA Hemorrhoid Centers can help you with a diagnosis and treatment. With locations nationwide and a team of experienced specialists, we make it easy for you to get the care you need. Don’t let hemorrhoid symptoms impact your quality of life. Schedule a consultation today at a USA Hemorrhoid Center near you.