Do hemorrhoids hurt?
Disease description:
I've been suffering from hemorrhoids for a long time. Recently, whenever I experience excess internal heat, it feels like there's a small flesh ball near my anus; even the slightest touch causes unbearable pain, making sitting or standing difficult, and defecation brings excruciating pain. I would like to ask, do hemorrhoids always cause pain?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
In general, hemorrhoids can cause pain, but the degree and manifestation of pain vary from individual to individual.
Hemorrhoids are a common anorectal condition and can be broadly categorized into two types: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are located above the dentate line and typically may not cause significant pain in the early stages. Symptoms mainly include rectal bleeding, anal discomfort, or a sensation of a foreign body. However, when internal hemorrhoids progress to advanced stages, such as when thrombosis, prolapse, or inflammation occurs, patients may experience noticeable pain. Particularly when prolapsed internal hemorrhoids cannot be promptly reduced, leading to incarceration or necrosis, the pain may intensify and even become severe.
In addition, friction from stool passing during defecation may also cause pain or discomfort. Therefore, it is recommended that patients with hemorrhoids seek timely treatment, maintain anal hygiene, and avoid irritating factors.
It is also advisable to improve daily lifestyle habits, such as maintaining regular bowel movements, avoiding prolonged sitting, and increasing dietary fiber intake, which can help prevent and alleviate symptoms of hemorrhoids.
