Want to know more about Hemorrhoid Symptoms? Concerned that you might have hemorrhoids? Need re-assurance that you are not suffering from something more serious? This article provides details of the typical symptoms of hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoid symptoms are wide-ranging and this can make them difficult to diagnose. In fact, in mild cases you might not notice any signs or symptoms at all.
The type of hemorrhoid symptoms you experience will depend to a great extent on the severity of your condition. In general, Internal Hemorrhoids are located within the rectum and are not visible. They usually do not cause much discomfort and you may not know you have them. External hemorrhoids can be easily seen as they lie under the skin around the anus. These are more prone to itching, inflammation and pain. Here’s a list of some of the most common Hemorrhoid symptoms:
1. Rectal Bleeding – This is one of the first signs of hemorrhoids. Look for bright red blood spots on the toilet paper, on the stool or in the toilet bowl after having a bowel movement.
2. Itching – A common sign of internal hemorrhoid is a constant itching and burning sensation inside the anus. The mucus secreted by the hemorrhoids irritates the anal skin and causes itching. Rubbing the anal area can worsen this condition.
3. Skin irritation – In case of enlarged hemorrhoids or multiple hemorrhoids, there may be inflammation in and around the anus and skin irritation.
4. Soft Lump – A soft lump hanging out of the anus or a bulge at the anal opening is another common symptom of external hemorrhoids. Pay attention to any signs of sensitivity, pain or itchiness in this lump.
5. Improper Bowel Movement – Usually people suffering from hemorrhoids, feel uncomfortable after a bowel movement and keep feeling the urge to go to the bathroom again. This is often a sign of a bulging hemorrhoid in the rectal canal.
6. Anal Leakage – Large external hemorrhoids can cause the rectum/anal canal to remain partially open. This can lead to the leakage of feces from the anus and make it difficult to clean this area properly after a bowel movement.
7. Pain – As mentioned earlier, internal hemorrhoids are not usually painful, but when they are pushed out of the anal canal due to straining, there can be some pain and discomfort. Large hemorrhoids that bulge out of the anus can cause severe pain when squeezed or rubbed. Sometimes, blood clots might form in an external hemorrhoid, causing unbearable pain and swelling.
While these are the most common Hemorrhoid symptoms, none of these is an absolute sign of hemorrhoids as some of these symptoms can be due to other medical conditions. If you think you may have hemorrhoids, then see your doctor who will perform a thorough rectal examination and be able to confirm whether or not you are suffering from hemorrhoids. In the case of bleeding hemorrhoids, you might also be asked to get a ‘colonoscopy’ or ‘sigmoidoscopy’ done.
Please remember that Hemorrhoids are very common, although they rarely discussed even among close friends. Be assured that it is a perfectly curable condition – with proper care and therapy, you can get rid of the hemorrhoid symptoms, be cured and lead a healthy and comfortable life.
Please do not wait any longer. If you need to know whether or not you might have hemorrhoids, here are more details of the typical hemorrhoids symptoms.