Hemorrhoids can cause itching due to inflammation, poor anal hygiene, excess moisture, or excessive anal cleaning. Scratching or rubbing can make the itching worse.

The itching associated with hemorrhoids is caused by scratching the irritated hemorrhoid tissue, which in turn releases histamines and prostaglandins, (a hormone-like substance) into the tissues. Scratching also poses a risk of developing an anal fissure (a tear in the lining near the rectum), which may cause bleeding after bowel movements, as well as swelling.

People experiencing symptoms such as itching should try to avoid scratching the area. This may cause further irritation of the tissues and bleeding after bowel movements. Other symptoms people experience with itchy hemorrhoids include: 

• Pain
• Tenderness
• Swelling around the anus
• Anal fissures
• Fecal incontinence – stool leakage – due to spasms in the irritated muscles around the anus

Swollen hemorrhoids might come out of the anus and can then be seen as soft lumps of tissue. This is called a protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoid. Sometimes hemorrhoids are confused with anal skin tags. These are small flaps of skin that grow around the anus and can cause similar symptoms.

Larger hemorrhoids can generally lead to more severe symptoms. It can feel as if something is pushing against the anus, or there is something in that area. This hemorrhoid protrusion can make sitting quite uncomfortable. People might also feel like their bowel isn’t empty, although they have just gone to the bathroom.

Schedule a Consultation with USA Hemorrhoid Centers Today

If you are experiencing itching or swelling and are worried hemorrhoids could be a possible cause, contact USA Hemorrhoid Centers for a consultation to learn more about HAE and how it can help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms. You can call 855-805-4247 or schedule online.