Hemorrhoid Symptoms: Itching and Swelling

Why Do Hemorrhoids Itch?

Hemorrhoids can feel itchy or irritated due to swelling and inflammation of the blood vessels. There are also specific reasons why external and internal hemorrhoids might itch.

External hemorrhoids are located outside of the anus. They are covered by skin that’s very sensitive and can quickly become dry, irritated, and itchy from either excessive effort to keep the anal area clean or lack of hygiene. All of the following can irritate the skin and cause hemorrhoids to feel itchy:

• Excess wiping after a bowel movement
• Using wipes that contain alcohol or other chemicals that can dry out the skin
• Leftover fecal matter after a bowel movement

An internal hemorrhoid that protrudes outside of the anus ( a prolapsed hemorrhoid) can cause itching by making the skin moist. Internal hemorrhoids are covered by a lining of mucosa. When they prolapse, they discharge mucus. This extra moisture on the sensitive skin around the anus can cause itching and irritation. 

If a prolapsed hemorrhoid stays outside the anus for a long period, it will continue to discharge mucus, leading to more moisture trapped against the skin and more severe hemorrhoid itching. The mucus can also mix with fecal matter, making the irritation even more intense. 

Understanding Hemorrhoid Swelling

Hemorrhoids are anal veins that naturally swell and become larger during a bowel movement to help stool move easily through the anal canal. However, too much pressure causes the hemorrhoids to stay enlarged.

External hemorrhoids are covered by anal skin that’s stretched to make room for the enlarged veins. When they swell, they form a hard lump near the anus and can feel tender to the touch.

Internal hemorrhoids develop in the upper part of the anal canal or lower rectum, so the swelling isn’t visible unless they drop outside the anus and become prolapsed. A prolapsed hemorrhoid will feel like a soft lump or bulge.

The more swollen and enlarged hemorrhoids are, the more pressure and discomfort a person might feel during a bowel movement. 

Symptoms Associated with Hemorrhoid Itching and Swelling

Hemorrhoid itching and swelling might be accompanied by other symptoms. 

• Bleeding: Swollen anal veins can bleed from the pressure during a bowel movement. 
• Pain. External hemorrhoids can feel like a sharp or throbbing pain. The pain and swelling are worsened by sitting down for a bowel movement or sitting for long periods in general. 
• Mucus discharge. Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids can cause wetness in the anal region. 

Treatment Options for Swollen and Itchy Hemorrhoids

There are at-home and medical treatments for itchy or swollen hemorrhoids.

At-Home Hemorrhoid Treatments

Mild cases of hemorrhoids can usually be treated successfully at home with over-the-counter creams, ointments, fiber supplements, or stool softeners.

Ice packs can help to reduce swelling and discomfort. Ssitz baths also work well in reducing swelling and inflammation. They can also help with hemorrhoid itching by keeping the skin around the anus clean. 

Medical Hemorrhoid Treatments

Medical treatments for hemorrhoids can help relieve symptoms, including itching and swelling. 

• Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE): This is a non-surgical treatment that leaves hemorrhoid tissue intact. HAE is not painful and has a quick recovery.
• Rubber band ligation: This treatment works by tying off hemorrhoids with a rubber band to cut off the blood supply and shrink the hemorrhoid. It’s a somewhat painful non-surgical procedure.
• Infrared coagulation: This procedure uses infrared light to shrink hemorrhoid tissue. It’s also a non-surgical option.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: This is a surgical procedure for severe hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to other treatments. 

Lifestyle Changes for Hemorrhoid Relief and Prevention

Lifestyle changes can help hemorrhoids heal quickly and prevent them from developing again. 

• Eating a high-fiber diet: Adding more fiber to the diet by eating whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds can soften the stool, reducing the pressure on hemorrhoids so they’re less likely to become swollen and inflamed.
• Drinking more water: Water improves circulation, supporting anal veins. It also prevents constipation, which is a possible cause of hemorrhoids. 
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can encourage regular bowel movements, strengthen the abdominal and pelvic muscles, and improve circulation. 

When to See a Doctor About Hemorrhoid Itching and Swelling

If hemorrhoid itching, swelling, and other symptoms don’t alleviate after one week or are severe, schedule a consultation with a doctor. An experienced hemorrhoid specialist can evaluate your symptoms and recommend the best treatment for you. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers has non-surgical hemorrhoid clinics nationwide. Our doctors treat hemorrhoids with hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) and create personalized treatment plans to help our patients get lasting relief.