What are the key differences between colon cancer and hemorrhoids. How can you distinguish between their symptoms. What are the risk factors and treatment options for each condition. When should you seek medical attention for rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits.

Understanding Colon Cancer: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevalence

Colon cancer is a serious condition that involves the transformation of normal cells into abnormal cells within the colon. Most cases of colon cancer are adenocarcinomas, which develop from the glands lining the inner wall of the colon. If left untreated, these cancers can grow and spread through the colon wall, eventually affecting nearby lymph nodes and organs. In advanced stages, colon cancer can metastasize to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, brain, and bones.

Is colon cancer common? According to statistics:

• One in 17 people in the U.S. will develop colorectal cancer
• It is the third most common cancer in U.S. men
• For U.S. women, it ranks second or third most common cancer depending on ethnicity
• Deaths from colorectal cancer rank third after lung and prostate cancer for men, and third after lung and breast cancer for women

Are you aware of the symptoms of colon cancer? Common signs include:

• Rectal bleeding or blood in the stool
• Changes in bowel movement frequency
• Abdominal distension or pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Narrow or ribbon-like stools
• Sensation of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement

Hemorrhoids Explained: Types, Causes, and Symptoms

Hemorrhoids are enlarged and swollen blood vessels located in the lower part of the rectum and the anus. They occur when increased pressure causes the blood vessels to swell. There are two main types of hemorrhoids:

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are located on the inside lining of the rectum. They typically cannot be felt unless they prolapse and push through the anus opening. When this happens, they can cause pain and itching.

External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids are found beneath the skin on the outer aspect of the anus. They may cause bleeding during bowel movements and create a feeling of fullness at the anal opening. While external hemorrhoids generally don’t cause many problems, they can become painful if they rapidly expand and clot, forming a thrombosed external hemorrhoid.

Do you know the common symptoms of hemorrhoids? They include:

• Bleeding during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation in the anal area
• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling around the anus
• A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful

Distinguishing Between Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Can you tell the difference between colon cancer and hemorrhoid symptoms? While there can be some overlap, there are key distinctions to be aware of:

Bleeding Patterns

Hemorrhoids typically cause bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Colon cancer bleeding may be less evident and can sometimes be invisible, potentially leading to black or tarry stools. Chronic bleeding from colon cancer may result in iron deficiency anemia, causing fatigue and pale skin.

Pain and Discomfort

Hemorrhoids often cause itching and pain in the anal area. Colon cancer pain is less common and typically occurs in later stages. When present, it may indicate a large tumor in the rectum or bowel perforation.

Changes in Bowel Habits

Both conditions can cause changes in bowel habits, but colon cancer may lead to more persistent changes, including constipation, diarrhea, or changes in stool consistency. Hemorrhoids usually don’t affect bowel habits significantly unless they’re very large or thrombosed.

Risk Factors for Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoids

Understanding the risk factors for both conditions can help in prevention and early detection. What increases your chances of developing colon cancer or hemorrhoids?

Colon Cancer Risk Factors

• Age (risk increases after 50)
• Family history of colorectal cancer
• Personal history of colorectal polyps or cancer
• Inflammatory bowel diseases (e.g., Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis)
• Inherited syndromes (e.g., Lynch syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis)
• Lifestyle factors (e.g., low-fiber diet, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, heavy alcohol use)

Hemorrhoid Risk Factors

• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea
• Sitting for long periods on the toilet
• Lack of fiber in the diet
• Pregnancy
• Obesity
• Heavy lifting

Diagnostic Procedures for Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoids

Accurate diagnosis is crucial for proper treatment. How are colon cancer and hemorrhoids diagnosed?

Colon Cancer Diagnostic Tests

1. Colonoscopy: A visual examination of the entire colon using a flexible, lighted tube
2. Fecal occult blood test: Detects hidden blood in stool samples
3. CT colonography: A less invasive alternative to colonoscopy using CT imaging
4. Biopsy: Removal and examination of suspicious tissue
5. Blood tests: To check for anemia and tumor markers

Hemorrhoid Diagnostic Procedures

1. Visual inspection: External hemorrhoids can often be diagnosed through physical examination
2. Digital rectal exam: To feel for abnormalities within the rectum
3. Anoscopy: Examination of the anal canal using a hollow, lighted tube
4. Sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy: May be performed to rule out other causes of rectal bleeding

Treatment Options for Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoids

The treatment approach differs significantly between colon cancer and hemorrhoids. What are the main treatment options for each condition?

Colon Cancer Treatments

• Surgery: Removal of the tumor and affected portions of the colon
• Chemotherapy: Use of drugs to kill cancer cells
• Radiation therapy: High-energy rays to destroy cancer cells
• Targeted therapy: Drugs that target specific abnormalities within cancer cells
• Immunotherapy: Stimulating the body’s immune system to fight cancer

Hemorrhoid Treatments

• Home remedies: Sitz baths, over-the-counter creams, and lifestyle changes
• Minimally invasive procedures: Rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation
• Surgical options: Hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, doppler-guided hemorrhoid artery ligation

Prevention Strategies for Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoids

While not all cases can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing colon cancer or hemorrhoids. What preventive measures can you adopt?

Colon Cancer Prevention

• Regular screenings: Start at age 45 for average-risk individuals
• Maintain a healthy diet: Rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
• Exercise regularly: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity per week
• Limit alcohol consumption and avoid smoking
• Maintain a healthy weight

Hemorrhoid Prevention

• Increase fiber intake: Aim for 25-30 grams per day
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water
• Exercise regularly to promote healthy bowel movements
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Don’t sit on the toilet for extended periods
• Maintain a healthy weight

When to Seek Medical Attention

Recognizing when to consult a healthcare professional is crucial for early detection and treatment. When should you see a doctor for rectal bleeding or changes in bowel habits?

• Persistent rectal bleeding, especially if it’s dark or accompanied by changes in bowel habits
• Blood in the stool that is dark or tar-like in appearance
• Ongoing changes in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks
• Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
• Severe pain or discomfort in the anal area
• Family history of colorectal cancer, especially if you’re over 40

Remember, early detection is key in managing both colon cancer and hemorrhoids effectively. Don’t hesitate to consult your healthcare provider if you experience concerning symptoms or are due for a colorectal cancer screening.

Pictures Of Blood In Stool From Hemorrhoids

Most often, internal hemorrhoids have no symptoms but are only found if there is bleeding with a bowel movement or if the hemorrhoid prolapses so that it can be felt outside of the anus. This may lead to itching and pain as well as the bleeding. Hemorrhoids also may cause anal itching (pruritus ani), and a constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement (tenesmus).

Colon Cancer vs. Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Colon cancer is the transformation of normal cells to abnormal cells in the colon. Most colon cancers are adenocarcinomas-tumors that develop from the glands lining the colon’s inner wall.

Left untreated, these cancers grow and eventually spread through the colon wall to involve the adjacent lymph nodes and organs. Ultimately, they spread (metastasized) to distant organs such as the liver, lungs, brain, and bones.

Sometimes colon cancer, or malignant tumors, are referred to as colorectal cancer, reflecting the fact that the rectum, the end portion of the colon, also can be affected. Some researchers and doctors recognize colon and rectal cancer to be two different types of cancer in the digestive tract, due to the anatomical differences in the rectum as compared to the rest of the colon.

• One in 17 people in the U.S. will develop colorectal cancer.
• According to reports from the National Cancer Institute, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in U.S. men.
• Colorectal cancer is the second most common cancer in U.S. women of Hispanic, American Indian/Alaska Native, or Asian/Pacific Islander ancestry, and the third most common cancer in white and African American women.
• Deaths from colorectal cancer rank third after lung and prostate cancer for men and third after lung and breast cancer for women.
• Death statistics from colon cancer vs. rectal cancer is not clear as an estimated 40% of rectal cancers are misdiagnosed as colon cancer.

SLIDESHOW

What Are Hemorrhoids? What Do Hemorrhoids Look Like?

Picture of Internal, External, and Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are enlarged and swollen blood vessels located in the lower part of the rectum and the anus. The blood vessels become swollen due to increased pressure within them. There are different types of hemorrhoids.

1. Internal hemorrhoids are located on the inside lining of the rectum and cannot be felt unless they prolapse and push through the anus opening causing pain and itching.
2. External hemorrhoids are located beneath the skin on the outer aspect of the anus. Symptoms may include bleeding with a bowel movement and a mass or fullness that can be felt at the anal opening. External hemorrhoids do not cause many problems unless they rapidly expand and clot. Usually this clot resolves spontaneously leaving residual skin.
3. A thrombosed external hemorrhoid occurs when blood within the blood vessel clots, and may cause significant pain and swelling.

Bad Bugs and Their Bites

Sex Drive Killers

Cancerous Tumors

Multiple Sclerosis

Adult Skin Problems

Habits That Wreck Your Teeth

Manage Diabetes in 10 Minutes

Erectile Dysfunction

Type 2 Diabetes Warning Signs

Health Benefits of Sex

Scalp, Hair and Nails

ADHD Symptoms in Children?

What Are the Differences Between Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoid Symptoms and Signs?

Colon Cancer Symptoms and Signs

People commonly attribute all rectal bleeding to hemorrhoids, thus preventing early diagnosis owing to lack of concern over “bleeding hemorrhoids. ” New onset of bright red blood in the stool always deserves an evaluation. Blood in the stool may be less evident, and is sometimes invisible, or causes a black or tarry stool.

• Rectal bleeding may be hidden and chronic and may only show up as an iron deficiency anemia.
• It may be associated with fatigue and pale skin due to the anemia.
• Changes in bowel movement frequency
• It usually, but not always, can be detected through a fecal occult (hidden) blood test, in which samples of stool are submitted to a lab for detection of blood.
• If the tumor gets large enough, it may completely or partially block your colon. You may notice the following symptoms of bowel obstruction:
• Abdominal distension: Your belly sticks out more than it did before without weight gain.
• Abdominal pain: This is rare in colon cancer. One cause is tearing (perforation) of the bowel. Leaking of bowel contents into the pelvis can cause inflammation (peritonitis) and infection.
• Unexplained, persistent nausea or vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Change in frequency or character of stool (bowel movements)
• Small-caliber (narrow) or ribbon-like stools
• Constipation
• Sensation of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
• Rectal pain: Pain rarely occurs with colon cancer and usually indicates a bulky tumor in the rectum that may invade surrounding tissue after moving through the colon’s submucosa.

Research suggests that the diagnosis of colon cancer is about 3 ½ months after signs and symptoms begin.

Symptoms and Signs of Hemorrhoids

The most common signs and symptom is painless bleeding. There may be bright red blood on the outside of the stools, on the toilet paper, or dripping into the toilet. The bleeding usually is self-limiting. Symptoms may depend upon the type of hemorrhoid.

Internal Hemorrhoid Symptoms and Signs

Most often, internal hemorrhoids have no symptoms but are only found if there is bleeding with a bowel movement or if the hemorrhoid prolapses so that it can be felt outside of the anus. This may lead to itching and pain as well as the bleeding. Hemorrhoids also may cause anal itching (pruritus ani), and a constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement (tenesmus).

Prolapse of an internal hemorrhoid occurs when the internal hemorrhoids swell and extend from their location in the rectum through the anus. A prolapsed internal hemorrhoid:

• A lump can be felt outside of the anus
• Can be gently pushed back through the anus, this may resolve the location of the hemorrhoid, but does not fix the hemorrhoid itself.
• May enlarge and swell even more if it cannot be pushed back
• May become entrapped, which requires more urgent medical attention

External and Thrombosed Hemorrhoid Symptoms and Signs

Thrombosed external hemorrhoids are a painful condition. These occurs when a blood clot develops in a hemorrhoidal blood vessel causing swelling and inflammation.
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 and may increase with sitting.

A thrombosed external hemorrhoid may resolve on its own; however, this condition often needs medical care. Bleeding with a bowel movement is never normal and should prompt a visit to a health care professional. While hemorrhoids are the most common cause of bleeding with a bowel movement, there may be other reasons for bleeding including inflammatory bowel disease, infection, and tumors.

What Causes Colon Cancer and Hemorrhoids? Do Hemorroids Lead to Colon Cancer?

Colon Cancer Causes

Most colorectal cancers arise from adenomatous polyps. Such polyps are comprised of excess numbers of both normal and abnormal appearing cells in the glands covering the inner wall of the colon. Over time, these abnormal growths enlarge and ultimately degenerate to become adenocarcinomas.

People with certain genetic abnormalities develop what are known as familial adenomatous polyposis syndromes. Such people have a greater-than-normal risk of colorectal cancer. In these conditions, numerous adenomatous polyps develop in the colon, ultimately leading to colon cancer.

• There are specific genetic abnormalities found in the two main forms of familial adenomatous polyposis.
• The cancer usually occurs before age 40 years.
• Adenomatous polyposis syndromes tend to run in families. Such cases are referred to as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP). Celecoxib (Celebrex) has been FDA approved for FAP. After six months, celecoxib reduced the mean number of rectal and colon polyps by 28% compared to placebo (sugar pill) 5%.

Another group of colon cancer syndromes, termed hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) syndromes, also runs in families. In these syndromes, colon cancer develops without the precursor polyps.

• HNPCC syndromes are associated with a genetic abnormality. This abnormality has been identified, and a test is available. People at risk can be identified through genetic screening.
• Once identified as carriers of the abnormal gene, these people require counseling and regular screening to detect precancerous and cancerous tumors.

HNPCC syndromes are sometimes linked to tumors in other parts of the body.

Other high risk factors for developing colon cancers include any one of the following:

• Ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s colitis (Crohn’s disease)
• Breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer now or in the past
• A family history of colon cancer

The risk of colon cancer increases two to three times for people with a first-degree relative (parent or sibling) with colon cancer. The risk increases more if you have more than one affected family member, especially if the cancer was diagnosed at a young age.

Other factors that may affect your risk of developing a colon cancer include:

• Diet: Whether diet plays a role in developing colon cancer remains under debate. The belief that a high-fiber, low-fat diet could help prevent colon cancer has been questioned. Studies do indicate that exercise and a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help prevent colon cancer.
• Obesity: Obesity has been identified as a risk factor for colon cancer.
• Smoking:Cigarettesmoking has been definitely linked to a higher risk for colon cancer.
• Drug effects: Recent studies have suggested postmenopausal hormone estrogen replacement therapy may reduce colorectal cancer risk by one-third. Patients with a certain gene that codes for high levels of a hormone called 15-PGDH may have their risk of colorectal cancer reduced by one-half with the use of aspirin.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are not arteries or veins, but instead are normal blood vessels called sinusoids that are located in the walls that surround the rectum and anus. When the venous pressure within these blood vessels increases, the hemorrhoids swell and dilate, because it is more difficult for blood to empty from them. This leads to the most common symptoms of bleeding and swelling.

Common situations that increase pressure within the hemorrhoidal blood vessels and lead to abnormalities include:

• Colon cancers
• Straining to have a bowel movement. This may be due to constipation or diarrhea.
• Prolonged sitting, including on the toilet
• Lack of exercise
• Low fiber diet
• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Liver disease
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Anal intercourse
• Spinal cord injury

What Should I Do If I Have Signs and Symptoms of Colon Cancer or Hemorrhoids?

When to Call the Doctor for Colon Cancer Symptoms and Signs

If you have any of these symptoms call a doctor.

• Bright red blood on the toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or in your stool when you have a bowel movement
• Change in the character or frequency of your bowel movements
• Sensation of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
• Unexplained or persistent abdominal pain or distension
• Unexplained weight loss
• Unexplained, persistent nausea or vomiting

If you have any of these symptoms, go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department.

• Large amounts of bleeding from your rectum, especially if associated with sudden weakness or dizziness
• Unexplained severe pain in your belly or pelvis (groin area)
• Vomiting and inability to keep fluids down

When to Call the Doctor for Hemorrhoid Symptoms and Signs

Bleeding from the rectum or anus is never normal and although hemorrhoids are the most common reason to have blood in the stool. If you have rectal bleeding or blood in your stool, call a doctor. Other causes of rectal bleeding exist and can be serious. Inflammatory bowel disease and cancers of the colon can cause with rectal bleeding. Blood in the stool should never be ignored.

• Seek medical care immediately if you take anticoagulation medications such as warfarin (Coumadin), dabigatran (Pradaxa), rivaroxiban (Xarelto), apixaban (Eliquis), clopidogrel (Plavix), prasugrel (Effient) or enoxaparin (Lovenox).
• People who have associated symptoms such as lightheadedness and weakness may have significant blood loss and may require more urgent care.
• Abdominal pain. Hemorrhoids do not cause abdominal pain.
• Prolapsed hemorrhoids that cannot be pushed back through the anus.
• Thrombosed external hemorrhoids may cause significant pain, and a doctor may need to remove the clot.

QUESTION

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

• Penis Curved When Erect
• Could I have CAD?
• Treat Bent Fingers
• Treat HR+, HER2- MBC
• Tired of Dandruff?
• Life with Cancer

From

Healthy Resources

• 8 Ways to Control Frequent Diarrhea
• Should You Have Surgery?

Featured Centers

• What Are the Best PsA Treatments for You?
• Understanding Biologics
• 10 Things People With Depression Wish You Knew

Health Solutions From Our Sponsors

• Shot-Free MS Treatment
• Your Child and COVID-19

Rectal Cancer Symptoms vs. Hemorrhoids

Rectal cancer and hemorrhoids both cause rectal bleeding. Signs and symptoms of rectal cancer that do not occur with hemorrhoids are unexplained weight loss without dieting, bowel obstruction, anemia, constipation, and fatigue. Hemorrhoids can cause itching and pain around the anal area, which are not symptoms of rectal cancer. Rectal cancer can cause hemorrhoids due to prolonged sitting and straining while trying to have a bowel movement due to constipation or severe diarrhea. Hemorrhoids do not cause rectal cancer; however, they may be lead to colon cancer.

Reviewed on 8/10/2022
References

Image source: iStock Images

“Clinical presentation, diagnosis, and staging of colorectal cancer.” UpToDate.com

“Colorectal Cancer: Epidemiology, risk factors, and protective factors.” UpToDate.com

“Colorectal Cancer Statistics, 2017.” American Cancer Society. May 1, 2017. .

“Overview of the management of primary colon cancer.” UpToDate.com

Rakel, R.E., and D. Rakel. Textbook of Family Medicine, 9th Edition. Saunders, 2015.

Patient Comments & Reviews

• Colon Cancer – Experience Please share your experience with colon cancer. It may help others with it, or the family members and friends of someone who has colon cancer. PostView 1 Comment
• Hemorrhoids – Experience Please share your experience with hemorrhoids. Did colon cancer cause your hemorrhoids? PostView 2 Comments
• Colon Cancer vs. Hemorrhoids – Symptoms and Signs What were your signs and symptoms of colon cancer or hemorrhoids? PostView 1 Comment
• Colon Cancer vs. Hemorrhoids – Causes If known, what caused your colon cancer or hemorrhoids? Post 3000$#Colon Cancer – Experience$#1$#1|3001$#Hemorrhoids – Experience$#1$#1|3002$#Colon Cancer vs. Hemorrhoids – Symptoms and Signs$#1$#1|3003$#Colon Cancer vs. Hemorrhoids – Causes$#0$#1EndQuestionInfo–> 4EndNumberOfQuestions–>

What to know about bleeding hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. Passing a small amount of bright red blood with stool is often the only sign that a person has hemorrhoids.

Straining during a bowel movement is the main reason for bleeding hemorrhoids. Other triggers include diarrhea or constipation and sitting or standing for a long time. They can also happen during pregnancy or after lifting a heavy item.

Signs of bleeding hemorrhoids include bright, red blood staining the toilet paper or feces.

Most people can treat hemorrhoids at home. In more severe cases, surgery may be necessary.

In this article, we look at why hemorrhoids bleed and what symptoms to look for. We also provide information on home remedies, medical treatments, and when to see a doctor.

Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue inside their anal canals. It consists of blood vessels, connective tissue, and muscle.

When a person strains, sneezes, or exerts themselves, hemorrhoidal tissue swells to prevent feces from leaving the body. In most cases, the tissue returns to its usual size, but sometimes, it remains enlarged. When this happens, the enlarged tissue can form hemorrhoids.

• after a bowel movement, especially if there is straining
• with diarrhea or constipation
• after sitting or standing for a long time
• during pregnancy
• when lifting a heavy object
• if a blood clot blocks the blood supply, leading to ulceration and dead tissue

Hemorrhoids often remain inside the anal canal, but sometimes they bulge outward from the anus and become visible outside of the body. Either type can bleed, but only external ones are painful.

If hemorrhoids bleed, a person may see traces or streaks of bright, red blood:

• on tissues after wiping
• in the toilet bowl
• in the stool

If the blood is dark red, the person should notify a doctor as this can indicate a problem higher up in the gastrointestinal tract.

Thrombosed hemorrhoid

A thrombosed hemorrhoid is when a blood clot develops within the hemorrhoid.

As the swelling increases, pressure from surrounding tissues or stool can cause the hemorrhoid to rupture and bleed, often at the end of a bowel movement. This can lead to significant bleeding. There may also be severe pain.

A person should seek medical help at once if they notice :

• severe pain
• constant bleeding from the hemorrhoid
• more than a few drops of blood in the toilet bowl, perhaps with blood clots
• a bluish lump on the anus, suggesting a thrombosed hemorrhoid

Anyone with severe bleeding should seek medical help at once.

A thrombosed hemorrhoid also needs urgent treatment. Without treatment, thrombosed hemorrhoids can compress and damage the blood vessels in surrounding, healthy tissues.

If a person has symptoms of hemorrhoids that do not improve after 7 days, they should see a doctor.

Medical treatments for bleeding hemorrhoids will depend on the severity of symptoms, the size of the hemorrhoids, and whether the person has already tried other treatment options.

The following are some treatment options that may take place in a doctor’s office:

• Rubber band ligation involves placing a small band at the base of an internal hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Hemorrhoids will usually fall off around 5–7 days later.
• Sclerotherapy involves injecting chemicals into the hemorrhoid to make it shrink. Scarring occurs in the blood vessels, stopping blood from flowing through them.
• Cryotherapy freezes the blood vessels, scarring the tissue and blocking the blood flow.
• Infrared photocoagulation uses a laser to damage hemorrhoidal tissue, causing it to shrink and slough off.

If a person has large or bulky hemorrhoids or other treatments have not helped, more invasive surgery may be necessary, such as:

• Hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will numb the area with a local anesthetic, then cut the hemorrhoid away. For large hemorrhoids, a person may need general anesthesia.
• Stapled hemorrhoidectomy: The doctor will staple the hemorrhoids back inside of the anus.
• Hemorrhoid artery ligation: The doctor stitches the arteries that supply blood to the hemorrhoid, and it shrinks.

All these procedures aim to tie off the bleeding blood vessels so that they no longer bleed.

Home remedies cannot resolve bleeding hemorrhoids, but they can help relieve hemorrhoids and their symptoms.

Here are some home remedies to relieve discomfort and reduce the risk of further bleeding:

Sitz bath

A sitz bath is a small plastic tub that fits over the toilet seat. Filling it with warm water, around 104°F or 40°C, and sitting in it for up to 15 minutes can help maintain hygiene and relieve pain and irritation. Do not add anything to the water.

Ice

Applying ice packs or ice covered with a cloth to swollen areas can help reduce hemorrhoid pain and inflammation.

Good toilet habits

Toilet habits that can help include:

• using the bathroom when the person feels an urge to go, without delay
• avoiding excessive straining or pushing
• limiting time on the toilet to 3–5 minutes
• avoiding excessive wiping

Water

If a person increases their water intake, it may help soften their stool, making it easier to pass. Less straining during bowel movements gives hemorrhoids a chance to heal.

Experts recommend a daily water intake of 64 fluid ounces or more for people with hemorrhoids.

• creams or suppositories containing steroids, which reduce inflammation
• bulk-forming agents that work best when a person takes them in the morning and drinks plenty of fluids during the day
• stool softeners, which may contain polyethylene glycol or docusate
• rectal ointments containing witch hazel

Bleeding hemorrhoids often happen when a person strains when passing stool. Maintaining regular bowel movements can help prevent both hemorrhoids and bleeding. Other preventative measures include:

• increasing fiber intake
• drinking plenty of water
• exercising

Most cases of hemorrhoids resolve with conservative treatment, such as home remedies and OTC medications. Internal hemorrhoids have a 10–50% chance of returning in the next 5 years, but less than 5% after surgery. The chance of external hemorrhoids recurring after conservative treatment is over 50% , but only 5–10% after surgery.

Possible complications of both types of hemorrhoids and surgery include :

• infection
• thrombosis, where a blood clot forms
• incontinence

Following surgery, there is also a 30–50% chance of urinary retention.

Bleeding hemorrhoids can cause concern, but they do not always need medical intervention. If bleeding is heavy or persistent, however, or there is severe pain, a person should contact a doctor.

Adopting a high fiber diet and drinking plenty of water can help reduce the risk of hemorrhoids and bleeding.

A person should see a doctor if they have concerns about hemorrhoid symptoms, there is persistent or heavy bleeding, or they notice dark, red blood. The doctor will discuss treatment options with them and may carry out tests to rule out other conditions.

Here are some questions people often ask about bleeding hemorrhoids.

How do you treat a bleeding hemorrhoid?

To relieve discomfort, a person can take a sitz bath or apply ice wrapped in a cloth. OTC options can also help reduce inflammation and soften stool. Consuming plenty of water and fiber can help improve bowel movements and reduce the risk of straining, making hemorrhoids less likely to bleed.

Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?

In most cases, occasional spotting with bright, red blood is not serious. However, if bleeding continues, there is severe pain, or the blood is dark red, a person should see a doctor, as these may be signs of a more serious condition.

Should I go to a doctor for bleeding hemorrhoids?

A person should see a doctor at once if bleeding is persistent or there is a lot of blood, which may include blood clots. They should also seek help if they notice dark, red blood, which can be a sign of problems in the stomach or intestines.

How long does it take for a bleeding hemorrhoid to heal?

This will depend on the individual, but if it persists longer than a week or the person is unsure why it is happening, they should see a doctor.

Last medically reviewed on April 27, 2022

• Constipation
• GastroIntestinal / Gastroenterology

Hemorrhoids (Internal & External): Pictures, Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

• What Are Hemorrhoids?
• Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
• Causes and Risk Factors of Hemorrhoids
• Hemorrhoids Diagnosis
• Hemorrhoids Treatment
• Hemorrhoids Complications
• Hemorrhoids Prevention
• More

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lowest part of your rectum and anus. Sometimes, the walls of these blood vessels stretch so thin that the veins bulge and get irritated, especially when you poop. Hemorrhoids are also called piles.

Hemorrhoids are one of the most common causes of rectal bleeding. They often go away on their own. Treatments can also help.

Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are so far inside your rectum that you can’t usually see or feel them. They don’t generally hurt because you have few pain-sensing nerves there. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include:

• Blood on your poop, on toilet paper after you wipe, or in the toilet bowl
• Tissue that bulges outside your anal opening (prolapse). This may hurt, often when you poop. You might be able to see prolapsed hemorrhoids as moist bumps that are pinker than the surrounding area. These usually go back inside on their own. Even if they don’t, they can often be gently pushed back into place.

External hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids are under the skin around your anus, where there are many more pain-sensing nerves. Symptoms of external hemorrhoids include:

• Pain
• Bleeding
• Itching
• Swelling

Thrombosed hemorrhoids

A blood clot can turn an external hemorrhoid purple or blue. This is called a thrombosis or a thrombosed hemorrhoid. You may notice symptoms like:

• Severe pain
• Itching
• Bleeding

When to call your doctor

Hemorrhoids are rarely dangerous. If the symptoms don’t go away in a week or if you have bleeding, see your doctor to make sure you don’t have a more serious condition.

You may be more likely to get hemorrhoids if other family members, like your parents, had them.

Pressure building up in your lower rectum can affect blood flow and make the veins there swell. That may happen from:

• Pushing during bowel movements
• Straining when you do something that’s physically hard, like lifting something heavy
• Extra weight, like obesity
• Pregnancy, when your growing uterus presses on your veins
• A diet low in fiber
• Anal sex

People who stand or sit for long stretches of time are at greater risk, too.

You may get them when you have constipation or diarrhea that doesn’t clear up. Coughing, sneezing, and vomiting could make them worse.

Your doctor will ask about your medical history and symptoms. They’ll probably need to do one or both of these examinations:

• Physical exam. Your doctor will look at your anus and rectum to check for lumps, swelling, irritation, or other problems.
• Digital rectal exam. Your doctor will put on gloves, apply lubrication, and insert a finger into your rectum to check muscle tone and feel for tenderness, lumps, or other problems.

To diagnose internal hemorrhoids or rule out other conditions, you might need a more thorough test, including:

• Anoscopy. Your doctor uses a short plastic tube called an anoscope to look into your anal canal.
• Sigmoidoscopy. Your doctor looks into your lower colon with a flexible lighted tube called a sigmoidoscope. They can also use the tube to take a bit of tissue for tests.
• Colonoscopy. Your doctor looks at all of your large intestine with a long, flexible tube called a colonoscope. They can also take tissue samples or treat other problems they find.

Hemorrhoid symptoms usually go away on their own. Your doctor’s treatment plan will depend on how severe your symptoms are.

• Home remedies. Simple lifestyle changes can often relieve mild hemorrhoid symptoms within 2 to 7 days. Add fiber to your diet with over-the counter supplements and foods like fruit, vegetables, and grains. Try not to strain during bowel movements; drinking more water can make it easier to go. Warm sitz baths for 20 minutes several times a day may also make you feel better. Ice packs can ease pain and swelling.
• Nonsurgical treatments. Over-the-counter creams and other medications ease pain, swelling, and itching.
• Surgical treatments. If you have large hemorrhoids, or if other treatments haven’t helped, you might need surgery. Your doctor can use chemicals, lasers, infrared light, or tiny rubber bands to get rid of them. If they’re especially large or keep coming back, your doctor might need to remove them with a sharp tool called a scalpel.

Rarely, hemorrhoids could lead to problems such as:

• Skin tags. When the clot in a thrombosed hemorrhoid dissolves, you may have a bit of skin left over, which could get irritated.
• Anemia. You might lose too much blood if you have a hemorrhoid that lasts a long time and bleeds a lot.
• Infection. Some external hemorrhoids have sores that get infected.
• Strangulated hemorrhoid. Muscles can block the blood flow to a prolapsed hemorrhoid. This may be very painful and need surgery.

To prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups, try these steps:

• Eat fiber. It helps food pass through your system easier. A good way to get it is from plant foods: vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes. Aim for 20 to 35 grams of dietary fiber a day.
• Use fiber supplements. Over-the-counter supplements can help soften stool if you don’t get enough fiber from food. Start with a small amount, and slowly use more.
• Drink water. It will help you avoid hard stools and constipation, so you strain less during bowel movements. Fruits and vegetables, which have fiber, also have water in them.
• Exercise. Physical activity, like walking a half-hour every day, keeps your blood and your bowels moving.
• Don’t wait to go. Use the toilet as soon as you feel the urge.
• Don’t strain during a bowel movement or sit on the toilet for long periods. This puts more pressure on your veins.
• Keep a healthy weight.

Top Picks

Treatment of hemorrhoids at home.

How and what to treat?

Hemorrhoids is a fairly common disease that affects most of humanity. This is due to several reasons – for example, the wrong way of life or hereditary predisposition. Fortunately, there are many ways to help treat the disease at home.

Remedies for hemorrhoids include both drug treatment and folk recipes, such as the use of compresses and baths with herbal decoctions, ointments, the use of gymnastics and various diets. Many people like to be treated with folk remedies, believing that it is not only convenient, but also economically beneficial. In this article, we will look at the most common and safe methods that are used in the treatment of hemorrhoids at home.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids is an increase in the vascular venous plexus in the anal canal, which, progressing, leads to prolapse, trauma and inflammation of the hemorrhoids (bumps). Simply put, this is varicose veins of the rectum.

The prevalence of hemorrhoids is very high and does not depend on sex and age. However, disputes often arise when conducting statistical studies, some researchers argue that women are more susceptible to this disease, while others – that men.

Patients usually divide their complaints into two types of hemorrhoids: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the anal canal, this type may be painless but may cause profuse bleeding. In the case of external hemorrhoids, the varicose veins are located in the anus and lead to discomfort, itching and, in extremely rare cases, bleeding.

Causes of hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids can be caused by various factors, both internal and external.

• Internal causes of hemorrhoids include inflammation and dilation of the hemorrhoidal vessels within the intestine, which can be caused by straining during bowel movements, constipation, pregnancy, various diseases of the large intestine and pelvic organs, and other diseases that lead to congestion in the inferior vena cava.
• External causes include traumatization of the anal area, malnutrition (abuse of spicy and fried foods), lack of physical activity and other factors.
• There are also genetic factors that may increase the risk of developing the disease. However, most cases are generated by a combination of these factors.

Awareness and understanding of the role of these factors in the development of hemorrhoids can help in the prevention or early detection and treatment of the disease. It is optimal to always take care of your health, and if there are signs of a disease, then consult a doctor in the early stages of the disease and follow the recommendations for the treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids.

In general, they depend on the stage of the disease. There are four stages:

• First stage.
  There are itching and burning in the anus, a feeling of discomfort, incomplete emptying. Periodically, the nodes swell and begin to bleed, but there is no prolapse of the nodes. A common complaint in the first stage is periodic traces of blood on the toilet paper after wiping.
• Second stage.
  At this stage, hemorrhoids begin to fall out during bowel movements and retract on their own.
• Third stage.
  When falling out, the knots no longer reset themselves. Repeated prolonged blood loss, which can lead to severe anemia, which requires immediate hospitalization.
• Fourth stage.
  Knots no longer retract into the anal canal.

With the progression of the disease, the likelihood of complications increases: heavy bleeding, thrombosis and infringement of the nodes, the appearance of cracks in the anal canal, paraproctitis and pararectal fistulas.

Can hemorrhoids be treated at home?

Treatment of the disease without consulting a doctor is possible, but it should be remembered that this can only be effective in the initial stage, when a healthy lifestyle is usually sufficient and provided that these are really manifestations of symptoms of hemorrhoidal disease.

Chronic hemorrhoids at any stage require a doctor’s consultation, therefore, if symptoms are present, a doctor should be consulted. Thus, it is possible to prevent the transition of the disease to another stage and, subsequently, to avoid the deterioration of the condition and the need for surgical treatment in a hospital.

To treat hemorrhoids at home, you can use local remedies, such as ointments and suppositories, which contain substances that relieve inflammation and reduce pain. It is also recommended to take baths with herbs, which will help reduce pain.

It is important to monitor the hygiene of the anus, this will significantly reduce the risk of developing purulent-septic pathology. Do not self-medicate, if the condition worsens, you should consult a doctor for professional help.

Prevention hemorrhoids .

Prevention is the best way to prevent hemorrhoids. Eliminate predisposing factors leading to the onset and development of the disease and you can avoid unpleasant symptoms of hemorrhoids and surgical treatment.

Lifestyle changes can help prevent or alleviate the disease.

• Adjust your lifestyle – reduce your sedentary lifestyle, start walking more, do not lift excessive weights without proper preparation. It is useful to do Kegel exercises to strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor, strengthen the abdominal muscles and buttocks.
• Take care of the hygiene of the anal area: refuse toilet paper, wash yourself instead.
• Empty your bowels in a timely manner, try not to push or sit on the toilet for a long time.
• Review your diet and eliminate or reduce the amount of fast carbohydrates – pastries and sweets. Eat plenty of fiber and eat as many raw, seasonal vegetables, fruits, and greens as possible. Very useful beets, pumpkin, zucchini. Prunes and apples are recommended.
• Minimize consumption of alcohol, carbonated drinks and other irritants to the intestinal mucosa.

In case of an existing disease, despite all preventive measures, if an exacerbation could not be avoided, then a visit to the doctor should not be neglected.

Do ointments, creams and other medicines help?

Yes, ointments, creams, and other products can help eliminate or reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids. Many of these drugs contain anti-inflammatory ingredients that can reduce irritation, itching, and soreness around the anus. In addition, some drugs contain components that can improve blood circulation and reduce swelling, strengthen the wall of hemorrhoidal vessels, which can also reduce or eliminate the symptoms of the disease.

However, it is worth remembering that every patient is unique and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, I always recommend contacting a proctologist who can choose the optimal set of drugs and treatment regimen for each patient.

How to treat hemorrhoids at home for pregnant women?

Hemorrhoids in pregnant women have some peculiarities. Home treatment of the disease in pregnant women can be very effective with drugs and measures taken to prevent and eliminate factors contributing to the further progression of the disease.

The first stage of treatment of hemorrhoids in pregnant women is a visit to a proctologist, which is necessary to assess the stage of the disease and the presence or absence of complications, and, based on the consultation, determine the optimal treatment regimen in each individual case.

The foundation of all therapy includes a healthy diet, fluid intake, regular exercise, and other measures to reduce pelvic pressure. It is not recommended to use drugs to reduce pain and swelling, as well as use drugs to improve blood flow without a doctor’s prescription, as pregnant women may have contraindications.

Following all the recommendations can help cure hemorrhoids and avoid further complications. If symptoms of the disease appear, you should immediately consult a doctor to start treatment as soon as possible.

How to relieve pain from hemorrhoids

Preparations such as ointments, gels or suppositories can help reduce or eliminate pain. However, before using any medication, you should consult your doctor. He will help you choose the most appropriate drug depending on the patient’s condition. It is important to remember that drugs can have side effects and may not be safe for some patient groups.

In addition to drugs, it is important to monitor your diet and exercise. Quitting bad habits and reducing time spent in a sitting position can also help reduce the pain of acute and chronic hemorrhoids. If the problems still persist, it is best to contact a specialist who will help you choose the best solution for you.

Traditional medicine in the treatment of hemorrhoids

Traditional medicine has long been used in the treatment of various diseases, and hemorrhoidal disease is no exception. The anti-inflammatory properties of a number of herbs, such as calendula, chamomile, and peony, help manage pain and reduce swelling.

For bleeding, use tincture of oak bark or compote of raisins and lingonberries. To improve intestinal motility, prunes, dried apricots, pumpkins, flax seeds, beets, cranberries and blueberries are used.

In any case, it should be remembered that treatment is not only the fight against symptoms, but also the normalization of the functions of the whole organism, the intake of a sufficient amount of liquid, the introduction of more fiber into the diet.

The use of traditional medicine in treatment can be effective, but do not forget about the need to consult a proctologist and the main methods of traditional medicine.

Should I self-treat hemorrhoids?

If you experience signs of hemorrhoids, be sure to seek advice and medical attention. Many people try to treat the disease with folk remedies in order to avoid going to the doctor and taking medications.

Some of these methods may relieve pain or relieve discomfort, but they may not address the cause of the disease, and sometimes patients misdiagnose themselves. Precious time can be lost, performance decreases, quality of life deteriorates, and the situation only gets worse.

If symptoms of hemorrhoids appear, especially in case of bleeding from the rectum, a proctologist should be consulted for a diagnosis. Primary examination includes external and digital examinations, videoanoscopy.

If the bleeding is profuse, often recurring on the background of conservative therapy, then it is advisable to resort to minimally invasive or other methods of treating hemorrhoids.

Self-treatment attempts, especially during an exacerbation, are not always effective. As a proctologist, I will be happy to help you alleviate the course or get rid of the disease and avoid possible complications. At the first signs of hemorrhoids, seek advice. You can make an appointment in Nikolaev at this link.

Sincerely,

Proctologist Ryabets Dmitry Nikolaevich

first signs of hemorrhoids in a child and how to treat them

Leomed Clinic > Articles > Hemorrhoids in children: causes, symptoms, treatment

23 Jun

There is an opinion that only adults or even elderly people suffer from hemorrhoids. In fact, this very unpleasant disease can develop at any age. In some cases, a hemorrhoid nodule is formed in childhood, causing pain and discomfort to the baby. There are two types of disease:

1. Internal type. The bumps are located in the rectum and fall out of the anus after defecation.

2. External type. Hemorrhoids appear around the anus.

The main thing a parent should do in case of finding such bumps in a child is to seek medical help. Self-treatment can only aggravate the course of the disease, provoke blood loss or cause dangerous complications.

Hemorrhoids in a child: causes

Hemorrhoids occur in children of different ages, including those under 1 year old. The negative factors that provoke the development of the disease include:

• Improper nutrition. Often due to an unbalanced diet, the intestinal microflora is disturbed. Due to a violation in the nutrition system, the feces become harder, which increases blood flow to the vessels of the anus.
• Prolonged constipation. This provokes an increase and damage to the hemorrhoids.
• Constant crying. Crying for a long time raises pressure inside the abdominal cavity, which causes problems with bowel movements.
• Congenital pathology of hemorrhoidal vessels. Pathology is rare.

In older children, including adolescents, a sedentary lifestyle is usually the main cause of hemorrhoids. The number of children with this disease is only increasing. This is due to the fact that many teenagers spend their time not playing on the street, but sitting at a computer or phone. Therefore, the task of parents is to make sure that the child moves as much as possible and does not sit too long in one place.

The first signs of hemorrhoids in children

For a long time, even the most observant parent may not be aware of health problems in their child. The fact is that hemorrhoids do not manifest themselves for a long time, which is why there is no clinical picture. At the first stage of the development of the disease, the baby experiences some discomfort and minor pain that appears during bowel movements. And hemorrhoids are noticeable only with the external type of the disease. Pronounced symptoms appear at stages 2-3 of the development of the disease. The child has the following symptoms:

• Itching in the anus;
• Crying for no apparent reason;
• There are traces of blood in the stool;
• There is redness and induration around the anus;
• Pain during bowel movements;
• Enlarging and dropping nodes that refuel themselves.

In the third stage, the nodules fall out of the anus and do not refill themselves. If you do not carry out treatment, the situation will only worsen. In the fourth stage, there is a constant prolapse of bleeding nodes. This causes severe pain. In order not to bring to this, you need to monitor the health of the baby and, in case of the slightest suspicion, consult a doctor.

How is hemorrhoids diagnosed in a child? As a rule, to make a correct diagnosis, the doctor interviews the parents and examines the little patient. To clarify the severity of the course of the disease, the following procedures are prescribed: examination of feces, laboratory blood tests, sigmoidoscopy to study the anus mucosa, palpation of the posterior canal.

Hemorrhoids in children: the dangers of the lack of treatment

Lack of adequate treatment of hemorrhoids in children exacerbates the course of the disease. This causes the following effects:

• Swelling and inflammation occur in the anus. Because of this, the patient constantly experiences severe pain.
• Profuse bleeding resulting in low blood pressure.
• Entrapment of hemorrhoids, which can cause the death of adjacent tissues.