While hemorroides, which may also be known as piles, are common as people age the symptoms may not be easy to recognize at least in the early stages. It is estimated that approximately 50% of all adults with experience hemorrhoids at some point in time in their life and it is very common for pregnant women to have to deal with them as well.
The reason that it is difficult to know some of the symptoms of hemorroides is because there are actually two different kinds or possibilities. One is very painful and provides high levels of discomfort while the other is virtually painless until it progresses past a specific stage or point.
Internal Hemorrhoids
The internal hemorrhoid symptoms will usually be seen and not actually felt. These are swollen blood vessels that are inside the rectum and do not initially protrude to the exterior of the body unless they become prolapsed.
The most common symptoms of internal hemorroides include bright red blood on the stool, in the toilet or on the toilet paper. As there are no nerves in this part of the body there is no pain sensation.
Other signs of internal hemorroides can include excessive production of mucous during a bowel movement as well as the leakage of fecal material between bowel movements. When there is straining the internal hemorrhoid can protrude outside of the body, this is a condition known as prolapsed hemorroides and they can be very painful.
Symptoms of External Hemorrhoids
The symptoms of external hemorroides include pain and itching in the area immediately at and around the anus. There may also be bleeding noted during and after a bowel movement and pain when you wipe.
The area immediately around the anus may be swollen and irritated or there may be a distinct lump or nodule under the skin that is painful when pressure is applied. If the blood clots in the swollen blood vessel outside of the body it can cause severe, stabbing pain and significant swelling.
It is important to meet with your doctor if you suspect that you have hemorroides. These same symptoms can also be signs of other health issues that are much more serious. Immediately see a doctor if there is significant bleeding or if you notice blood clots within the fecal material or passed with the bowel movement.
It is important to seek treatment of hemorroides for early diagnosis and treatment.
