In case you are worried that you might have hemorrhoids, here is a quick overview of the typical hemorrhoids symptoms , plus a brief explanation of what hemorrhoids are. First of all, hemorrhoids are given different names, depending on where you live. They are referred to as Hemroids, Hemorrhoids or Piles. And if you a British, they are called haemorrhoids.
So What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen or inflamed veins or blood vessels in the lower part of the Rectum or Anus. There are two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external.
* Internal Hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum. You can’t see or feel these hemorrhoids and they are very common. They do not usually cause discomfort, but straining when passing a hard stool can injure a hemorrhoid’s delicate surface and cause it to bleed. Occasionally, straining can push an internal hemorrhoid through the anal opening. This is known as a protruding or prolapsed hemorrhoid and can cause pain and irritation.
* External Hemorrhoids (medical name perianal haematoma) are small lumps that develop under the skin on the outside edge of the anus. They can become very itchy or bleed. Sometimes blood may pool in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot (thrombus). This results in severe pain, swelling and inflammation. Fortunately, this type of hemorrhoid is not so common.
So How Do I Know If I Have Hemorrhoids?
Well, hemorrhoids symptoms can include any of the following:
Itching in and around the anus
Pain or aches in the anus, especially while sitting
Pain during bowel movements (especially when passing a hard stool)
Swelling around the anus
Painless bleeding when going to the bathroom - look for bright red blood on toilet tissue, stool, or in the toilet bowl
Hemorrhoids protruding from the anus
One or more hard, tender or painful lumps near the anus
Leakage of faeces.
Feeling that your bowels are still full and need emptying, after just going to the bathroom
Discharge of mucus present after passing a stool.
Hemorrhoids can result in the formation of one or more a hard lumps near or around your anus. These lumps are made up of blood clots forming in a small area (this is a thrombosed external hemorrhoid) and it is these types of hemorrhoids that can become extremely painful.
Please be aware that Hemorrhoids symptoms will vary, depending on their location and whether your hemorrhoids are mild or severe. Hemorrhoids are quite common, although they are rearely discussed. Please, if you think you might have hemorrhoids, seek proper medical advice.