How is Hemorrhoid Bleeding Characterized

Hemorrhoid bleeding is often identified by the presence of bright red blood, which may appear in the stool, in the toilet bowl, or on toilet paper. There’s usually only a small amount of blood — a few drops is normal for a hemorrhoid that bleeds.

Internal Hemorrhoid Bleeding

Even if someone is experiencing hemorrhoid bleeding, they may or may not have other typical hemorrhoid symptoms, like pain or itching. That’s because internal hemorrhoids are more likely to bleed than external hemorrhoids, as they are located inside the rectum and are prone to irritation. Unlike external hemorrhoids, internal hemorrhoids generally do not cause discomfort unless they prolapse or slip outside the anus.

Differentiating Hemorrhoid Bleeding

It’s important to note that not all rectal bleeding is due to hemorrhoids. Dark red blood in the stool is more likely a sign of another more serious health condition than a hemorrhoid. A darker color indicates the bleeding is happening higher up in the digestive tract, such as in the small intestine or stomach. Because rectal bleeding can be caused by different conditions, including serious health issues such as colon cancer, it’s always a good idea to see a doctor about bleeding that doesn’t go away or that comes and goes, whether it’s red or dark red. 

Ruptured Hemorrhoid Bleeding

In some cases, heavy bleeding might be from a ruptured hemorrhoid. A ruptured hemorrhoid is a thrombosed hemorrhoid (one containing a blood clot) that bursts. Bleeding from a ruptured hemorrhoid can last several minutes and might be red or dark red. Small clots may also be in the stool or on the toilet paper.

Why Do Hemorrhoids Bleed?

Hemorrhoidal tissue consists of cushions of connective tissue and blood vessels that line the anal canal. These tissues typically fill with blood and swell during a bowel movement. Then, they return to their normal size when the stool has passed. 

When there is excessive or prolonged pressure, the veins in the hemorrhoids can become inflamed and swollen — creating the lumps known as hemorrhoids. The pressure can be from straining while going to the bathroom, constipation, or diarrhea. It can also be from heavy lifting or extra pressure put on the rectal area during pregnancy or long periods of sitting. 

Not all hemorrhoids bleed, with about 40% of hemorrhoids being asymptomatic.²

However, when a hard stool or too much pressure during a bowel movement nicks a blood vessel in a hemorrhoid or causes the thin wall of the blood vessel to burst, it will bleed. And that’s when someone with hemorrhoids might notice blood when they use the bathroom. 

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoid Bleeding

Hemorrhoid treatments can help to alleviate symptoms, including hemorrhoid bleeding. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers offers a non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment: hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE). It’s a minimally invasive procedure, so there’s less risk of an infection or other complications compared to surgery. Patients can go home the same day as their procedure, and the recovery is relatively quick. Most people are ready to return to their daily activities by the next day. 

Other treatment options for hemorrhoid bleeding include rubber band ligation, infrared coagulation, and a hemorrhoidectomy. 

When to See a Hemorrhoid Doctor About Rectal Bleeding

Rectal bleeding shouldn’t be overlooked. If it’s caused by hemorrhoids, this symptom might go away on its own or with lifestyle changes like a high-fiber diet after a few days. If bleeding persists for a week or longer or if it’s intermittent, it’s important to see a doctor to address the condition before it further progresses. 

Our expert hemorrhoid doctors can evaluate your symptoms and determine what’s causing rectal bleeding. They can also determine if HAE is right for you and create a personalized treatment plan to help you get relief. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers is a national network of non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment centers. Find a location near you to book a consultation today.