December 1, 2008

Font Size
A
A
A

Hemorrhoids (cont.)

Hemorrhoid Symptoms

  • The symptoms of hemorrhoids are fairly straightforward. The most common complaint from internal hemorrhoids is painless bleeding. You will see bright red blood on the outside of your stool, on the toilet paper, or dripping into the toilet. The bleeding usually does not last long.

  • Hemorrhoids may lead to a condition called prolapsed hemorrhoids.

    • This occurs when the internal hemorrhoids swell and then extend through the anus.

    • You then can feel the hemorrhoids, at your anus, from the outside.

    • Many times you can gently push the hemorrhoids back through the anus and solve the problem.

    • If the hemorrhoids cannot be pushed back, then they may swell even more and become trapped outside of the anus.

    • If your hemorrhoids become entrapped, then you will need to see a doctor.

    • You may develop itching in your anus from prolapsed hemorrhoids. This condition is called pruritus ani.

  • External hemorrhoids may form a painful condition called thrombosed hemorrhoids.

    • When a blood clot occurs in a hemorrhoid, the hemorrhoid will become even more swollen. This swelling leads to increased pain.

    • The pain is usually worse with bowel movements or sometimes with sitting.

    • This too is a condition that may require a doctor's examination and treatment.



Next: When to Seek Medical Care »

Printer-Friendly Format  |  Email to a Friend

Women's Health

Find out what women really need.

eMedicineHealth is a first aid and consumer health information site written by physicians for patients and consumers.
WebMD Symptom Checker - Start Here

Alternative Hemorrhoid SurgeryAlternative Hemorrhoid Surgery
Did you know that roughly half of all Americans over 50 have hemorrhoids? Doctors have a new weapon when surgery is required. See more WebMD Videos »

Adult Skin Problems Slideshow

Search Medical Dictionary