Hemorrhoids

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

Hemorrhoids can affect adults of all ages and are often related to increased pressure in the veins of the rectum and anus. Although hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, most cases improve with lifestyle changes, medications, or minimally invasive procedures.

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

Types of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are generally classified based on their location.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and are usually painless because the rectum has fewer pain-sensitive nerves. However, they can cause bleeding during bowel movements and may sometimes protrude from the anus.

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 nerve endings, external hemorrhoids can cause:

• Pain
• Swelling
• Itching
• Tender lumps near the anus
• Difficulty cleaning the area after bowel movements

Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

A thrombosed hemorrhoid occurs when a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid. This condition can cause sudden severe pain, swelling, and a firm lump near the anus.

The lump may appear purple or bluish because blood becomes trapped inside the vein.

Symptoms of a thrombosed hemorrhoid may include:

• Severe pain
• A hard lump near the anus
• Swelling and inflammation
• Possible bleeding if the clot ruptures

Pain is typically most intense during the first 48–72 hours and then gradually improves.

Learn more:

• Thrombosed Hemorrhoid

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

Symptoms can 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 anal opening
• Mucus discharge

Learn more:

• Hemorrhoid Symptoms

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

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

Common contributing factors 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 and the type of hemorrhoid.

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

These measures help reduce pressure in the rectal veins and allow inflamed hemorrhoids to heal.

Office-Based Procedures

If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended, including:

• Rubber Band Ligation
• Sclerotherapy
• Infrared Coagulation

These procedures are typically performed in the office and usually 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

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 one week
• Changes in bowel habits

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

Learn More About Hemorrhoids

You may also explore these guides:

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