Do I Have Hemorrhoids?

This is one thing that many people are too embarrassed to ask about and far too embarrassed to consult their doctor, so this is where the internet is a valuable first stop. I will try to be as informative as possible.

Internal Hemorrhoids

Anal Itching

This is the most common perception of the symptoms for internal hemorrhoids. Unfortunately, this is not the case. The itching sensation occurs when the internal hemorrhoids start to expand and approach the anal opening. The mucus within the anal passage then begins to leak out and this constant moisture is the cause of the itching. Therefore the hemorrhoids have been present for a period of time.

Blood on the stool

This is probably the most common symptom for internal hemorrhoids. This is usually not noticed immediately as how many of us actually look at what we drop into the toilet? It is usually noticed firstly when we clean. You will notice a smear of blood on the tissue and you will probably feel slightly uncomfortable, as if you have just passed something incredibly large. The stool will more than likely have blood on it, sometimes not noticeable until examined closely, and there may be slight traces of blood in the toilet water too. This is due to the hemorrhoids tearing so effectively is acting as if you were cut.

I must stress that the blood should be light in colour as it should be fresh and coat only the outside of the stool. Any dark blood within the stool should be treated as suspicious and a consultation with your doctor arranged immediately.

Pain when passing stools

Often when passing a movement, there will be a degree of pain felt. It may also feel as if you still want to pass more stools when you have finished. This is due to the hemorrhoids swelling and so the body still thinks there is still matter to be expelled. The muscles in the anus continue to try to push and basically try to pass your hemorrhoids.

Painful lumps on the anus

This is the final stage of internal hemorrhoids. These are known as prolapsed hemorrhoids and result from the hemorrhoids being pushed out of the anus, usually because of straining due to the reason above. These can be generally be pushed back in with a finger if they don't retract naturally. In extreme cases they remain outside the anus and are extremely painful as the anal muscles start can start to cut off the blood supply.

External Hemorrhoids

These occur just around the anus and will be noticeable as a small lump, most often discovered when wiping. These can be painful as they increase in size and start to become hard. This is because the blood in them has started to clot and this is known as thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Best regards

Simon G