Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can occur inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or outside around the anus (external hemorrhoids). Different types of hemorrhoids cause varying symptoms. 

Here are some of the most common hemorrhoid symptoms and why they occur. 

Pain and Discomfort

External hemorrhoids can feel uncomfortable or painful when sitting down — especially if sitting for long periods or in a hard chair. They can also cause a sharp or throbbing pain during a bowel movement or when wiping.

Internal hemorrhoids generally don’t cause pain.

Itching and Irritation

One of the most frustrating anal hemorrhoid symptoms is itching and irritation. The itching can be caused by enlarged veins that cause excess moisture and mucus to leak from the anus. Scratching or repeated wiping can irritate the hemorrhoid, making the itchiness worse. 

This hemorrhoid symptom can worsen at night, making it difficult to fall asleep. 

Swelling Around the Anus

Hemorrhoids are swollen piles of vascular tissue, and you may notice signs of this swelling, like a feeling of something pushing against the anus. This is a possible symptom of large internal hemorrhoids. With external hemorrhoids, you might be able to feel a tender, swollen hard lump outside of the anus. 

Bleeding

Bright red blood in the stool, in the toilet bowl, or on toilet paper after wiping is a common warning sign of hemorrhoids. The bleeding can occur from straining during a bowel movement. 

Hemorrhoid bleeding is usually not severe. If there’s a lot of blood, it could be because a blood clot has formed in the hemorrhoid. This complication — a thrombosed hemorrhoid — can damage surrounding blood vessels and healthy tissue and requires urgent medical treatment. 

Protrusion (Prolapse)

An internal hemorrhoid can protrude out of the anus. This might happen during a bowel movement. A protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoid will feel like a soft mass. Sometimes, it can be gently pushed back into the anus. 

Lump Formation

External hemorrhoids can form hard lumps outside the anus. There could be one lump or several. 

Other Possible Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Bleeding, itching, and discomfort are common with hemorrhoids, but other possible symptoms may occur. 

Mucus Discharge

An inflamed internal hemorrhoid might leak mucus. If that happens, it might cause a feeling of dampness in the anal region. Rectal discharge from an internal hemorrhoid will usually go away after a few days. If it doesn’t, it’s important to see a doctor to determine if another, more serious condition is causing this symptom.

Fecal Leakage

Hemorrhoids can stop the muscles around the anus from closing all the way. If this happens, a small amount of stool can leak out. 

Incomplete Bowel Movement Discomfort

A large internal hemorrhoid can cause extra pressure or it can make it feel like there is still more stool to push out when having a bowel movement. 

Take Control of Your Symptoms and Schedule an Appointment

Often, hemorrhoid symptoms will clear up in a week or two. Lifestyle changes and home care can help speed up the healing process. Eating more fiber, drinking water, and sitz baths can all help. 

However, if hemorrhoid symptoms don’t start to improve with home care after one week, it’s important to see a doctor. 

A hemorrhoid specialist can perform an exam and discuss your symptoms to determine if you have hemorrhoids, how severe they are, and what type of treatment will help you get relief. Seeing a doctor is also important to rule out other more serious conditions, such as colon or rectal cancer. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers is home to highly recommended hemorrhoid doctors who specialize in treating hemorrhoids with a non-surgical procedure that offers lasting relief with minimal risk of complications. We have clinics nationwide offering hemorrhoid consultations, personalized treatment plans, and affordable care.

Schedule a consultation at a USA Hemorrhoid Centers location near you and take control of your symptoms.