I've had hemorrhoids for three years, with occasional rectal bleeding but no pain. What could be the reason?
Disease description:
Recently, my husband told me that he has had hemorrhoids for three years, with occasional rectal bleeding but no pain. I would like to know what is going on here.
It has been three years with occasional rectal bleeding but no pain, which is a typical presentation of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are a common condition in proctological surgery, and internal hemorrhoids are the main cause of painless rectal bleeding associated with hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are located above the dentate line, where the pain nerves are not particularly sensitive; therefore, bleeding often occurs without accompanying pain. Hemorrhoidal bleeding usually results from the rupture of varicose venous plexuses caused by hard stools, leading to bright red blood that does not mix with the stool. As hemorrhoids progress, venous dilation, tortuous blood vessels, and thinning of the vessel walls make them susceptible to injury and bleeding from dry stools, but without stimulating the nerves, thus no pain is felt.
Although painless rectal bleeding from hemorrhoids is common, prolonged bleeding can lead to anemia; therefore, timely medical attention and appropriate treatment are necessary. At the same time, other potential causes of rectal bleeding, such as rectal polyps or rectal masses, should be ruled out to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment.