Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in the lower rectum or around the anus. They are one of the most common anorectal conditions and can cause symptoms such as rectal bleeding, itching, swelling, and discomfort during bowel movements.

Although hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, they are usually treatable with lifestyle changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures when necessary.

Dr. Aisha Akhtar, a board-certified colorectal surgeon in Phoenix, specializes in diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids and other colorectal conditions.

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are generally classified into two main types depending on their location.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum. They are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.

Internal hemorrhoids are graded based on the degree of prolapse:

External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus. Because the skin in this area contains many pain-sensitive nerves, they can cause:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Itching
• Tender lumps around the anus

Sometimes a blood clot can form inside an external hemorrhoid. This is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid, which can cause sudden severe pain.

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of hemorrhoids. Common symptoms include:

• Bright red bleeding during bowel movements
• Anal itching or irritation
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling around the anus
• A lump near the anus
• Mucus discharge

You can learn more here:

• Hemorrhoid Symptoms

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when pressure increases in the veins of the lower rectum.

Common causes include:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic constipation
• Chronic diarrhea
• Sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Heavy lifting
• Aging

Learn more:

• What Causes Hemorrhoids

How Are Hemorrhoids Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually involves a medical evaluation that may include:

• Medical history review
• Physical examination
• Digital rectal examination
• Anoscopy or other diagnostic tests when needed

These evaluations help rule out other conditions such as anal fissures, colorectal polyps, or colorectal cancer.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids

Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms.

Conservative Treatment

Many mild hemorrhoids improve with lifestyle changes such as:

• Increasing dietary fiber
• Drinking more fluids
• Avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet
• Using stool softeners
• Warm sitz baths

Office-Based Procedures

When symptoms persist, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended, including:

• Rubber Band Ligation
• Sclerotherapy
• Infrared Coagulation

These treatments are typically performed in the office and require little recovery time.

Surgical Treatment

For severe or persistent hemorrhoids, surgical treatment may be necessary.

Common procedures include:

• Hemorrhoidectomy
• Stapled hemorrhoidopexy
• Treatment of thrombosed hemorrhoids

You can also review the full Hemorrhoid Procedures page for additional details.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical evaluation if you experience:

• Persistent rectal bleeding
• Severe pain
• A lump that does not improve
• Symptoms lasting more than a week

Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated to rule out other conditions.

Learn More About Hemorrhoids

You may also explore these guides:

• Hemorrhoids Overview
• Hemorrhoids Symptoms
• Hemorrhoids Procedures
• Hemorrhoids FAQ
• Hemorrhoids Images & Diagrams