Types of Hemorrhoids Q&A

There are two main types of hemorrhoids, namely internal and external hemorrhoids.

• Internal Hemorrhoids. These develop inside the rectum and are not visible to the naked eye. They occur when the veins inside the rectum become swollen and inflamed due to increased pressure, with symptoms including painless bleeding during bowel movements, itching and irritation in the anal region, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum.

• External Hemorrhoids. These form around the anus and are visible to the naked eye. They occur when the veins in the skin around the anus become swollen and inflamed due to increased pressure. External hemorrhoids can be quite painful and may cause bleeding, swelling, itching, and irritation in the anal region.

Other types of hemorrhoids may include:

• Thrombosed Hemorrhoids. These occur when a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid, causing severe pain and discomfort.

• Prolapsed Hemorrhoids. These occur when an internal hemorrhoid protrudes outside the anus and can be seen or felt as a lump.

• Mixed Hemorrhoids. These occur when an individual has both internal and external hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids are a relatively common medical condition affecting millions of people across the world of varying ages and genders.

Studies show that approximately 50% of adults over the age of 50 have had at least one hemorrhoid episode at some point in their lives, experiencing symptoms such as pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.

There are several risk factors for hemorrhoids, including a poor diet low in fiber, prolonged sitting or standing, and obesity. Pregnant women are also more likely to develop hemorrhoids due to increased pressure on the veins in the lower pelvis.

While anyone can get hemorrhoids, certain people may be at a higher risk, including:

• Pregnant Women. The increased pressure on their rectum and anus due to the growing fetus and hormonal changes make hemorrhoids common during pregnancy.

• Overweight People. Extra weight puts more pressure on the rectum and anus, increasing the likelihood of hemorrhoids.

• People With a Sedentary Lifestyle. Sitting for prolonged periods of time can put undue pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus causing them to swell.

• Elderly Individuals. As people age, the tissue supporting the veins in the rectum and anus becomes weakened, increasing their susceptibility to hemorrhoids.

• People With Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea. Straining during bowel movements can put pressure on the veins leading to hemorrhoids. Chronic diarrhea can also cause hemorrhoids due to the frequent passing of loose stools.

• Individuals With a Family History of Hemorrhoids. If a family member has had hemorrhoids, you’re at an increased risk of getting them.

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. They can occur due to excessive pressure in the pelvic area, such as during pregnancy, obesity, or constipation.

On the other hand, anal fissures are small tears in the skin around the anus which can be caused by straining during bowel movements or passing strong or hard stools.

The first main difference between these two conditions is that while hemorrhoids are caused by swollen veins, anal fissures are caused by tears in the skin.

Secondly, hemorrhoids can be internal or external, while anal fissures usually occur externally around the anus.

Lastly, the symptoms of hemorrhoids are generally milder and include pain, itching, and bleeding, while anal fissures can cause intense pain and discomfort, often described as sharp or burning.

While hemorrhoids can often be treated with lifestyle changes such as increasing fiber intake, using topical creams, and sitting in warm baths, anal fissures may require more complex treatments such as surgery or prescription medication.

At Digestive Disease Care 9DDC), we offer top hemorrhoid care through our team of seasoned specialists. For more information, contact us today or schedule an appointment online. We have convenient locations to serve you in Babylon NY, East Setauket NY, Forest Hills NY, Jericho NY, Lake Success NY, Melville NY, Mineola NY, Massapequa NY, New Hyde Park NY and Riverhead NY.