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Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins in the anus. Hemorrhoids can occur inside the anus (internal hemorrhoids) or outside of the anus (external hemorrhoids).

External hemorrhoids are sometimes painful. Internal hemorrhoids are not as painful as external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids can range in size from a slight swelling under the wall of the anus to large, sagging tissue that extends out of the anus. Internal hemorrhoids may cause painless bleeding during a bowel movement. A person may have both internal and external hemorrhoids.

One common causes of hemorrhoids is straining during bowel movements. Another common cause is pregnancy. Symptoms of hemorrhoids include itching, pain, bright red blood on toilet paper or stool, or a lump of soft tissue outside of the anus.

Rectal bleeding needs to be evaluated by a doctor. Home treatment may be all that is needed to relieve the discomfort of minor hemorrhoids. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

Last Revised: March 16, 2012

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine & Kenneth Bark, MD - Surgery, Colon and Rectal

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