Hemorrhoids are unfortunately, part of life for many patients. Despite the fact that hemorrhoids are so common, many people aren’t aware that there are several different types of hemorrhoids. So, how can you tell the difference? Today we’ll walk you through the four common types of hemorrhoids and the symptoms associated with each one.
What Is A Hemorrhoid?
Sometimes called piles, hemorrhoids are clusters of veins in or around your rectum and anus that become swollen and painful. You cannot always see hemorrhoids, but you may notice them when you feel discomfort in those areas. Hemorrhoids appear as various size bumps. The four types of hemorrhoids include internal, external, prolapsed, and thrombosed.
What Causes Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are very common (approximately 1 in 4 adults will get them sometime during their life). Some of the common factors associated with hemorrhoids are:
Obesity.
Pregnancy.
Straining during bowel movements.
Sitting for extended periods.
Diarrhea or constipation.
Lack of fiber in your diet.
A lack of regular bowel movements or frequent use of laxatives.
Age.
What Is An Internal Hemorrhoid?
Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum and usually not visible. They are also rarely serious, but they do cause certain symptoms. Eventually, even without treatment, they typically go away by themselves. The symptoms of internal hemorrhoids are:
Itching.
Burning.
A lump in or around your anus.
Pain or discomfort.
Slight bleeding after a bowel movement.
What Is An External Hemorrhoid?
External hemorrhoids show up on or around your anus where bowel movements occur. You cannot always see them, but sometimes they are visible as small lumps on the anal surface. External hemorrhoids are usually not serious either and the symptoms are similar to those of internal. They may appear bluish when swollen and visible. Symptoms include:
Itching.
Burning.
A lump in or around your anus.
Slight bleeding after a bowel movement.
More pain and discomfort when sitting, physical exercise, or bowel movements.
What Is A Prolapsed Hemorrhoid?
A prolapsed hemorrhoid is when a hemorrhoid protrudes outside of your anus. Depending on the severity and how far it sticks out, your physician may grade it (1-4) in terms of seriousness. These types of hemorrhoids usually appear as red lumps. Sometimes the hemorrhoids have no symptoms at all. Other times they can produce pain, itching, or burning sensations. If they do not retract or get worse, you may need surgery to correct the issue.
What Is A Thrombosed Hemorrhoid?
A thrombosed hemorrhoid is one that has a blood clot within the tissue. They appear most often as swelling or lumps around your anus. Considered a complication when the blot clot forms, a thrombosed hemorrhoid can occur internally or externally. The symptoms include:
Blue color around the hemorrhoid area.
Intense pain and swelling.
Redness.
Itching.
Thrombosed hemorrhoids can be potentially dangerous, so you will want to contact your hemorrhoid doctor as soon as possible if you notice these symptoms.
While they’re not usually serious, hemorrhoids can cause health issues if left untreated - especially in severe cases. If you live in the Tampa area and you’ve been struggling with hemorrhoids, schedule an appointment with one of our hemorrhoid specialists to get relief today!