What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus.
They develop when pressure increases in the veins of the anal canal, causing them to enlarge and sometimes become inflamed.

Hemorrhoids are very common and affect millions of adults. Studies estimate that nearly half of adults over age 50 experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.

They may cause symptoms such as:

• Rectal bleeding during bowel movements
• Itching around the anus
• Pain or discomfort
• A lump or swelling near the anus
• Mucus discharge

Some hemorrhoids cause no symptoms at all and are discovered during a medical exam.

What Are Internal Hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum.

Because there are fewer pain-sensing nerves in this area, internal hemorrhoids often do not cause pain, but they can cause bleeding.

Common signs include:

• Bright red blood during bowel movements
• A feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Prolapse (tissue bulging out of the anus)

Internal hemorrhoids are classified into four grades:

What Are External Hemorrhoids?

External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus.

They are more likely to cause symptoms because the surrounding skin contains many pain-sensitive nerves.

Symptoms may include:

• Pain when sitting
• Itching or irritation
• A hard lump near the anus
• Swelling

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

How Common Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are among the most common anorectal conditions.

Research estimates:

• Around 1 in 20 Americans experience symptomatic hemorrhoids.
• Up to 50% of adults over age 50 develop hemorrhoids at some point in life.

Risk increases with:

• Age
• Chronic constipation
• Pregnancy
• Prolonged sitting
• Straining during bowel movements

These factors increase pressure in the rectal veins, leading to hemorrhoid formation.

What Causes Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids develop when pressure increases in the rectal veins.

Common contributing factors include:

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

Learn more about causes here:

👉 What Causes Hemorrhoids

When Should You See a Doctor?

Many hemorrhoids improve with lifestyle changes and conservative treatment.

However, 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 can sometimes be caused by other conditions, including colorectal cancer or inflammatory bowel disease. Proper evaluation is important.

Learn More About Hemorrhoids

You may also explore these guides:

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