Main Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
Jan 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhou Xinjun
Introduction
1. Varicose Veins: Once hemorrhoids develop, prominent varicose veins—appearing as “flowing” or serpentine vessels—are invariably present at the affected sites both inside and outside the anus.
2. Rectal Bleeding: Post-defecation bleeding is an early symptom of internal hemorrhoids. In their initial stages, internal hemorrhoids often cause no obvious subjective symptoms; bleeding is frequently first noticed on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after bowel movements, prompting patients to seek medical attention.
3. Pain: Internal hemorrhoids may cause swelling and discomfort or pain when complicated by inflammation or thrombosis.
Hemorrhoids are abnormal vascular swellings that develop either inside or outside the anus, classified—based on their location relative to the dentate line—as internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, or mixed hemorrhoids. Below, we address the primary symptoms of hemorrhoidal bleeding.
Primary Symptoms of Hemorrhoidal Bleeding
1. Varicose Veins
Upon developing hemorrhoids, prominent varicose veins become evident at the affected sites—both internally and externally around the anus.
2. Rectal Bleeding
Bleeding after defecation is an early sign of internal hemorrhoids. In the initial stage, internal hemorrhoids often cause no noticeable symptoms; patients typically only become aware of them upon noticing blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl following a bowel movement. Bleeding usually begins mildly and progressively worsens—from scant spotting to more substantial blood loss.
3. Pain
Pain and discomfort may occur when internal hemorrhoids become inflamed or develop thrombosis, leading to swelling.
4. Prolapse
Stage I internal hemorrhoids are small and do not prolapse beyond the anal verge. In Stage II, hemorrhoids protrude during defecation but spontaneously reduce (retract) afterward. In Stage III, prolapsed hemorrhoids cannot spontaneously reduce and require manual reduction.
5. Anal Moisture
Anal moisture is commonly observed in Stage II and III internal hemorrhoids—particularly when inflammation and enlargement increase mucosal secretions, or when prolapsed hemorrhoids remain outside the anus. External hemorrhoids generally produce no secretions unless complicated by inflammation, skin ulceration, or excessive exudate, in which case persistent perianal dampness may occur—typically indicative of inflammatory external hemorrhoids.
The above outlines the principal symptoms associated with hemorrhoidal bleeding. We hope this information proves helpful to you.
