Hemorrhoids: What symptoms and sensations are associated?

Generally, the common symptoms of hemorrhoids include rectal bleeding, anal pain, anal itching, prolapse of hemorrhoids, and increased perianal secretions. Sensations may include a foreign body sensation in the anus, a feeling of anal heaviness or pressure, discomfort during defecation, discomfort after prolonged sitting, and a pricking pain following scratching. If any abnormalities occur, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. Detailed analysis is as follows:

I. Symptoms

1. Rectal bleeding: During defecation, the stool may rub against the mucosal surface of the hemorrhoid, causing mucosal damage and bleeding. This typically presents as blood on the surface of the stool or dripping blood after bowel movements. The blood is usually bright red and is a common objective symptom.

2. Anal pain: When hemorrhoids develop thrombosis or become incarcerated, they may stimulate the surrounding anal nerves, causing pain of varying intensity, ranging from mild distension to severe pain. This is a notable symptom.

3. Anal itching: Hemorrhoids can lead to increased perianal secretions, which may irritate the skin around the anus, causing inflammatory reactions and resulting in itching. Scratching should be avoided to prevent exacerbation.

4. Prolapse of hemorrhoids: Increased intra-abdominal pressure during defecation may cause the hemorrhoids to protrude from the anus. Mild cases may spontaneously retract, while more severe cases may require manual repositioning or may not be reducible at all. This is a typical symptom.

5. Increased perianal secretions: Hemorrhoids may impair the anal closure function, leading to leakage of intestinal secretions and keeping the perianal skin in a moist condition. This is a common accompanying symptom.

II. Sensations

1. Foreign body sensation in the anus: Hemorrhoids forming a mass inside or at the edge of the anus may create a sensation of a foreign body being present, especially noticeable after defecation or prolonged sitting.

2. Feeling of anal heaviness: When hemorrhoids prolapse or inflammation occurs, there may be a sensation of downward pressure or heaviness in the anal area, often accompanied by a feeling of incomplete evacuation.

3. Discomfort during defecation: During bowel movements, the passage of stool through the anus may rub against the hemorrhoids, creating a sensation of obstruction or mild resistance, which affects the defecation experience.

4. Discomfort after prolonged sitting: Prolonged sitting may compress the anal area, intensifying the irritation caused by the hemorrhoids and producing a feeling of unease or discomfort while sitting.

5. Pricking pain after scratching: Scratching due to anal itching may injure the perianal skin, resulting in a pricking pain and potentially leading to infection and worsening of symptoms.

After experiencing symptoms or discomfort related to hemorrhoids, attention should be given to dietary regulation. Consuming more foods rich in dietary fiber can help maintain soft and smooth bowel movements, reducing irritation to the hemorrhoids. Avoiding maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods and engaging in appropriate physical activity can help promote perianal blood circulation.