Hemorrhoids are a common condition that often goes unnoticed, but they can also cause discomfort or even pain. While they’re generally not a serious health issue, they can make daily life challenging and may lead to embarrassment. In this article, we’ll explore the three different types of hemorrhoids and one potential complication, helping you identify them early and seek the appropriate treatment.
Hemorrhoids come in different main types:
- Internal hemorrhoids – those inside the body
- Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids – those protruding outside the body
- External hemorrhoids – those under the skin
- One complication – thrombosed hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoid Treatment in Evansville, IN
The Colorectal Surgical Associates, a subsidiary of Evansville Surgical Associates, are committed to being there for you through every step of treatment. When you visit any of our locations, you can have peace of mind knowing that you will be receiving the highest quality of care. Our surgeons use advanced, minimally invasive techniques to treat hemorrhoids, abdominal issues, and more.
The 3 Types of Hemorrhoids
There are different types of hemorrhoids with some being visible and others going unnoticed to the naked eye. They become visible when they expand, often appearing as blue or red lumps.
The three types of hemorrhoids are:
- Internal hemorrhoids
- Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids
- External hemorrhoids
Some patients only experience one type of hemorrhoid while others experience a combination of them. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms to receive a correct diagnosis and treatment for your condition.
1. Internal Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids located inside the rectum are known as internal hemorrhoids. This type usually goes away on its own and poses no significant threats to your health. Most cases are painless since there aren’t any nerves to detect pain in that part of your body. This means that you may never experience symptoms of internal hemorrhoids or even know you have it.
However, they can occasionally develop into a more painful condition. If they grow, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Itching
- Burning
- Pain and discomfort
- Lumps or swelling around the anus
- Bleeding
Internal hemorrhoids can be irritated by bowel movements. This can result in bright red blood which you will notice on your toilet paper. Contact your doctor if you experience rectal bleeding or your symptoms don’t clear up after a few days. They can tell if the cause of an internal hemorrhoid is anal fissures and provide you with the correct form of treatment for your condition.
2. Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids can develop into prolapsed hemorrhoids—a condition where they appear as bumps or lumps protruding from your anus. They can be assessed on a grading scale by your doctor on a scale of one to four.
The scale for grading prolapsed hemorrhoids is as follows:
- Grade 1: no prolapsing
- Grade 2: prolapsed but can retract on their own. This occurs when you put pressure on the rectal or anal area. For example, straining during a bowel movement and then returning to a normal position.
- Grade 3: a prolapse that doesn’t return to normal on its own. These can begin to affect your daily life due to pain and swelling, as well as the risk of infection.
- Grade 4: a prolapse that doesn’t return to normal on its own and results in pain during the process. They require treatment for discomfort, pain, and other complications.
It’s possible to see these types of hemorrhoids by examining the area with a mirror. They may appear as nothing more than a protrusion in some cases. In others, on the other hand, they may be accompanied by a burning sensation, itchiness, discomfort, or pain. Surgery may become necessary to correct or remove them to prevent pain and other complications.
3. External Hemorrhoids
Like the previous types, external hemorrhoids are located around or on your anus. Despite being external, they’re not always visible although they can form on the surface. External hemorrhoids aren’t usually a major medical problem but they may require treatment if you experience pain or if they begin to affect your daily routine.
The symptoms of external hemorrhoids are the same as internal hemorrhoids, including:
- Itching
- Burning
- Pain and discomfort
- Lumps or swelling around the anus
Where they differ is that their location leaves you with a higher risk of experiencing discomfort or pain while:
- Sitting
- Using the bathroom
- Engaging in physical activities
External hemorrhoids are also easier to see when swollen. The bluish, swollen vein becomes visible just beneath the skin.
1 Complication of Hemorrhoids: Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
A thrombosed hemorrhoid is a complication that occurs within a hemorrhoid. It is caused by a blood clot (thrombosis) developing inside the hemorrhoid tissue. They can occur within internal and external hemorrhoids, resulting in common symptoms such as:
- Inflammation
- Redness and swelling
- Severe itchiness and pain
- A bluish color around the affected area
It’s important to contact your doctor if you suspect that you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid. These types of hemorrhoids can cut off the blood supply to the tissue, eventually resulting in even more severe complications.
At-Home Treatments for Hemorrhoids
At-home treatments can provide relief, depending on the type of hemorrhoid. For internal hemorrhoids, over-the-counter creams or suppositories with hydrocortisone can help reduce swelling and discomfort. Warm sitz baths, soaking the affected area in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes several times a day, can alleviate symptoms of internal and external hemorrhoids.
For prolapsed hemorrhoids, gently pushing them back inside the rectum and applying a cold compress can offer temporary relief. Additionally, maintaining good hygiene by keeping the anal area clean and dry can help prevent further irritation. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any treatment.
Do you need treatment for hemorrhoids in Evansville, IN? Contact us today to schedule your appointment!
The three main types of hemorrhoids are internal, prolapsed, and external. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the body and may go unnoticed unless they grow larger. They can develop into prolapsed hemorrhoids that protrude outside of the body. External hemorrhoids develop underneath the skin. Any type of hemorrhoid can become a thrombosed hemorrhoid, resulting in more severe complications without treatment.
Evansville Surgical Associates has been providing comprehensive and compassionate surgical care for over 50 years. Call us at (812) 424-8231 or (800) 264-8231 to contact us or schedule an appointment. We are available from 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Central Time.
