Hemorrhoids(sometimes called piles) are swollen or dilated veins that form in the rectum or anus.
Symptoms may include itching, pain, and swelling.
Some people with hemorrhoids are asymptomatic.
Damircudic / Getty Images
Damircudic / Getty Images
What Are Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are a collection of swollen veins found under the skin of the anus or in the rectum lining.
External hemorrhoids form under the skin near the anus andcan be itchyand painful.
Acute pain can occur if a blood clot develops inside an external hemorrhoid (thrombosis).
You may feel a small bump around the anus, which may be a deep purple color.
Once the blood clot dissolves, the stretched-out skin or skin tag may itch or feel irritated.
Internal hemorrhoids are located in the lining of the lower rectum and anus.
Internal hemorrhoids can be problematic if theyprolapse(extend outside the anus) and cause severe pain.
External hemorrhoids may be painful and itchy.
If you have prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, symptoms may include pain, itchiness, and a burning sensation.
Causes
Hemorrhoids form around the anus when theres too much pressure on the veins.
Treatment
Various treatments exist for external and internal hemorrhoids.
They range from home remedies to medication.
Home Remedies
If you have hemorrhoid discomfort, severalhome remediesmay help.
Rectal bleeding is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, but other conditions can cause bleeding, as well.
Symptoms may include itching, pain, swelling, and rectal bleeding.
There are at-home remedies that may relieve some of the discomfort.
If the symptoms don’t subside in a week, speak with your healthcare provider.
A Word From Verywell
Hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and painful, but theyre not a serious condition.
Many people who have hemorrhoids find relief through home remedies and lifestyle changes.
Frequently Asked Questions
External hemorrhoids form under the skin of the anus and appear like red bumps.
Internal hemorrhoids are found deep in the lining of the rectum and anus.
These typically cant be seen or felt.
External hemorrhoids feel like hard bumps that are tender to the touch.
They may itch and be painful when you sit.
Internal hemorrhoids, because theyre deep in the lining for the rectum and anus, cant be felt.
Hemorrhoids may bleed a little after youve had a bowel movement due to the pressure.
Yes, hemorrhoids can recur.
Harvard Health.Hemorrhoids and what to do about them.
American Society of Colon & Rectal Surgeons.Hemorrhoids: expanded version.
American College of Gastroenterology.Hemorrhoids and other anal disorders.
Brown SR.Haemorrhoids: an update on management.
Therapeutic Advances in Chronic Disease.
