Hemorrhoids – Symptoms and Causes
Overview
Hemorrhoids, sometimes called piles, are enlarged veins in the anus and lower rectum area. They’re similar to varicose veins that can appear elsewhere in the body.
There are two main types:
- Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum
- External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus
Many people find relief through simple home treatments and lifestyle adjustments. Treatment options range from self-care methods to medical procedures, depending on severity.
Signs and Symptoms
Inside Hemorrhoids
Inside hemorrhoids develop within the rectum. You typically cannot see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort. However, pushing or irritation during bowel movements may lead to:
Painless bleeding when you have a bowel movement. You might see small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
Protruding hemorrhoids that push through the anal opening. This can cause pain and irritation.
Outside Hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus. Common symptoms include:
- Itching or irritation in the anal area
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around the anus
- Bleeding
Blood Clot Hemorrhoids
Blood can collect in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot. When this happens, you might experience:
- Severe pain
- Significant swelling
- Inflammation
- A hard lump near the anus that may appear discolored
When to Contact a Doctor
Consult your healthcare provider if you experience bleeding during bowel movements or if your hemorrhoids don’t improve after a week of home treatment.
Don’t assume rectal bleeding is only hemorrhoids, especially if your bowel habits or stool color and consistency change. Rectal bleeding can occur with other conditions, including colorectal and anal cancers.
Seek immediate medical care if you experience:
- Large amounts of rectal bleeding
- Lightheadedness
- Dizziness
- Feeling faint
Causes
Hemorrhoids form when veins in the anal area swell due to pressure. Several factors can lead to this condition:
Common Causes:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting too long on the toilet
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Excess body weight
- Pregnancy
- Anal intercourse
- Diet low in fiber
Other Contributing Factors:
- Regular heavy lifting
- Extended periods of sitting
These pressures weaken the supporting tissues around anal veins, causing them to bulge and sometimes become painful or bleed.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase your chance of developing hemorrhoids:
- Age: As you get older, the tissues supporting veins in your rectum and anus may weaken and stretch.
- Pregnancy: The weight of the baby can put extra pressure on the anal region.
- Straining During Bowel Movements
- Sitting for Long Periods on the Toilet
- Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea
- Heavy Lifting
- Obesity
Possible Problems
Hemorrhoids rarely cause serious issues, but some complications can happen:
Low Blood Cell Count: Chronic hemorrhoid bleeding can cause anemia, resulting in insufficient healthy red blood cells to transport oxygen effectively.
Cut-off Blood Flow: If an internal hemorrhoid loses its blood supply, it becomes “strangulated.” This condition causes severe pain and needs medical attention.
Blood Clots: A hemorrhoid may develop a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid). While not dangerous, these clots can be extremely painful.
Ways to Prevent Hemorrhoids
Keeping stools soft is key to preventing hemorrhoids. Here are several effective strategies to help avoid this common condition:
Eat fiber-rich foods daily. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains soften stool and add bulk, reducing the need to strain during bowel movements. Add fiber to your diet gradually to prevent gas and bloating.
Stay hydrated by drinking 6–8 glasses of water each day. Proper hydration helps keep stools soft and easier to pass. Limiting alcohol consumption is also helpful.
Try fiber supplements if you don’t get enough fiber from food. Products containing psyllium or methylcellulose can help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms and bleeding. When taking these supplements, drink at least eight glasses of fluid daily to prevent constipation.
Avoid straining during bowel movements. Holding your breath and pushing creates pressure in the rectal veins, which can worsen or cause hemorrhoids.
Stay active through regular exercise. Physical activity helps prevent constipation and reduces pressure on veins. Exercise can also help manage weight, which may contribute to hemorrhoid problems.
Limit sitting time, especially on the toilet. Prolonged sitting raises pressure on the anal veins. Get up and move around regularly if you have a desk job.
