hemorrhoids It occurs when the veins and blood vessels in the anus or lower rectum become swollen and inflamed due to pressure. Approximately 40% of hemorrhoid patients have no symptoms. For symptomatic internal hemorrhoids, the most commonly reported symptom is bleeding.

In most cases, hemorrhoids can be treated at home, but more severe cases may require hospital treatment or surgery. Learn how you can manage bleeding from hemorrhoids.

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Symptoms of bleeding hemorrhoids

There are two types of hemorrhoids.

  • external:Under the skin around the anus
  • internal: Inner wall of the anus and lower rectum

The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is bleeding. This bleeding usually looks like this:

  • Painless (unless prolapse occurs, when the internal hemorrhoid prolapses through the anus)
  • bright red
  • related to defecation
  • Coating the outside of the stool to prevent it from mixing
  • Found something stuck to toilet paper or toilet bowl
  • Although it is a small amount, it may appear more when mixed with toilet water.

External hemorrhoids can be painful, but they are characterized by little bleeding. Bleeding may occur if there are complications. thrombosed hemorrhoids (If a blood clot forms within the hemorrhoid). This blood is darker in color and tends to clot more easily than the blood associated with internal hemorrhoids.

How to treat bleeding hemorrhoids at home

Hemorrhoids are usually treated with lifestyle changes, especially dietary changes. In fact, increasing your fiber intake can reduce hemorrhoid bleeding by 50%.

It is also important to increase your water intake. Adding fiber and water can help prevent constipation, a common cause of hemorrhoids.

A brisk walk or other moderate aerobic exercise for 20 to 30 minutes a day can also help prevent constipation by stimulating bowel function.

Over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatments

Over-the-counter hemorrhoid medications are effective in treating hemorrhoids. Especially those that use steroids, such as hydrocortisone, can have side effects and should be used for short periods of time. Some OTC creams, ointments, pads, and suppositories contain ingredients that may provide temporary relief, such as:

  • Witch hazel
  • lidocaine
  • hydrocortisone
  • Phenylephrine

Always consult your health care professional before using any hemorrhoid medication.

home therapy

Here’s how to reduce hemorrhoid symptoms at home:

  • warm bath: Try taking warm baths or sitz baths regularly. A sitz bath is a shallow pot that you sit on, usually fitting over the toilet seat. Sitting in a bathtub with a few inches of water can also help.
  • good hygiene: After defecating, gently wash the anus with a damp cloth or baby wipes and pat dry. Avoid excessive cleaning, using scented soaps, and scrubbing.
  • cool down: Apply an ice pack or cold compress to the anal area. Do not apply ice directly to your skin. Make sure it is covered with cloth.

How long should I try home remedies?

If bleeding does not stop after a week of home remedies, contact your health care provider. If bleeding is severe, seek medical attention immediately.

Treatment of bleeding hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids usually respond well to conservative treatment, but more severe or complex cases may require more intensive intervention.

Treatment of hemorrhoids in the office

In-office hemorrhoid treatment aims to shrink the hemorrhoid by creating scar tissue that cuts off the blood supply. These include:

  • rubber band ligation:A special rubber band is attached to the base of the hemorrhoid. Within about a week, the band of hemorrhoids shrinks and falls off, leaving behind scar tissue. This must always be done by a medical professional.
  • sclerotherapy: A healthcare professional injects a solution into the internal hemorrhoid.
  • Infrared photocoagulation: A special tool is used to irradiate the internal hemorrhoids with infrared rays to generate heat.
  • electrocoagulation: The medical professional uses a tool to send an electric current to the internal hemorrhoid.

surgery

Hemorrhoid surgery is basically an outpatient surgery. anesthesia. Usually the person goes home the same day.

Surgical procedures include:

  • hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of large external hemorrhoids and prolapsed internal hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments
  • hemorrhoid stapling: Surgery to remove internal hemorrhoid tissue using a special stapler and pull the prolapsed internal hemorrhoid back into place within the anus.

When should you see a health care provider?

Rectal bleeding is a common symptom of hemorrhoids, but it can also be a symptom of other illnesses, including more serious ones. Do not assume that rectal bleeding or pain is caused by hemorrhoids without checking with your health care professional.

Contact your health care provider if you have rectal bleeding and:

  • This is my first time experiencing rectal bleeding.
  • Changes in bowel habits, weight loss, and/or abdominal pain may be seen.
  • Symptoms worsen.
  • I have new symptoms.
  • There is more blood than usual.
  • Your symptoms do not respond to home treatment within a week.
  • I have concerns.

If you need to see a doctor immediately

Seek immediate medical attention for rectal bleeding if:

  • Severe anal pain and bleeding.
  • I have a stomach ache.
  • I have diarrhea.
  • you have a fever
  • You feel dizzy, light-headed, or faint.
  • You think it’s an emergency.

Prevention of bleeding hemorrhoids

Although hemorrhoids cannot always be prevented, you can prevent them or even stop them from worsening by practicing the measures used to treat existing hemorrhoids. These include:

  • Eat a high-fiber diet with plenty of caffeine-free, non-alcoholic liquids
  • Avoid straining when defecating or lifting heavy objects
  • Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time
  • Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge to defecate (don’t hold back)
  • Establish regular bowel habits, such as going to the bathroom at the same time every day
  • Use pillows to avoid sitting on hard surfaces
  • Exercise regularly to keep your bowel movements active

summary

Bleeding is a common symptom of internal hemorrhoids. Symptoms are usually minimal, bright red, and painless. Hemorrhoid symptoms, such as bleeding, can usually be treated with home measures such as increasing your fiber intake, but more severe cases may require medical attention or surgery.

For rectal bleeding, always consult your health care professional for proper diagnosis. If the bleeding is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

A word from Berrywell

Seeing blood on your toilet paper can be scary, but don’t panic if it turns red. First, consult your health care provider for a proper diagnosis. If the bleeding is due to hemorrhoids, it may go away on its own or with simple home remedies. If it is caused by a more serious cause, your health care provider can diagnose and treat your condition.

FAQ

  • Are bleeding hemorrhoids serious?

    Bleeding from hemorrhoids is usually not serious, but in rare cases, if the bleeding is severe or continues for a long time, it can cause anemia (low red blood cell count). Even if you have mild rectal bleeding, do not assume that you have hemorrhoids unless you have been diagnosed with them. Please consult your health care provider to be sure.

  • Is it normal for hemorrhoids to bleed?

    Although bleeding is a common symptom of internal hemorrhoids, you should not assume that bleeding from the rectum is due to hemorrhoids. If rectal bleeding occurs, contact your health care provider.


Written by Heather Jones

Heather M. Jones is a freelance writer focused on health, parenting, disability, and feminism.

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