Hemorrhoids affect about one in 20 adults in the United States, and the bulges affect men and women equally, according to the National Institutes of Health. The abnormalities can lead to significant hemorrhoid pain and other symptoms.
There are actually four main types of hemorrhoids, and each one has unique causes, hemorrhoids symptoms, and treatment options. If you are interested in learning more about the different kinds of hemorrhoids, we’ll explore that topic in full.
Internal Hemorrhoids
Some hemorrhoids are outwardly visible. Internal hemorrhoids are often unseen because they are located deep in the anus. The protrusions can occur in the wall of the rectum or anal canal.
Some of the more serious internal hemorrhoids can form long protrusions. Individuals who have this type of hemorrhoid may notice small amounts of blood in their stool. Or, they may notice irritation or itching around the anus.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are prone to swelling and elongation. If an internal hemorrhoid is not treated, it can protrude from the anus.
The protrusion may re-enter the anus when you relax. More serious prolapsed hemorrhoids can remain protruded from the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids tend to be particularly painful when sitting or having a bowel movement.
External Hemorrhoids
An external hemorrhoid develops on or around the anus. The bulge is noticeable from the outside.
Symptoms of an external hemorrhoid include irritation around the anus, general discomfort, swelling around the anus, and bleeding. To learn more about external hemorrhoids, see here.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
Thrombosed hemorrhoids can be internal or external. The bulge is characterized by a pool of blood that has clotted. This type of hemorrhoid can be particularly uncomfortable or even painful.
What Are My Treatment Options?
Hemorrhoids are generally something that you do not want to just live with. They can grow in size and become progressively more of a barrier to optimal health.
For folks who see treatment for hemorrhoids from the healthcare industry, there are several treatment options that can restore health and wellbeing.
Rubber band ligation is a treatment that cuts off circulation to the hemorrhoid. A doctor places one or two tiny rubber bands around the base of an internal hemorrhoid. The protrusion falls off within a week.
Your doctor can also inject a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid. This treatment causes the tissue to shrink. The treatment, also known as sclerotherapy, is not always as effective as rubber band ligation.
Another treatment option, coagulation, uses a laser or infrared light to cause small hemorrhoids to harden. The treatment poses little risk of side effects or complications.
Learn More About Types of Hemorrhoids
No matter which type or types of hemorrhoids that you have, there are many home remedies and treatment options that can eliminate the rectal protrusions. If your hemorrhoid is causing significant discomfort or blood loss, contact your primary care provider immediately.
Has health and fitness become a recent priority in your life? We offer articles on a wide range of health-related topics to keep you informed on fitness, nutrition, and more.
