Hemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment - A Comprehensive Guide

A hemorrhoid is a painful inflammation of the rectal area during straining or repeated bouts of diarrhea. It is a condition that affects men and women of all ages, but commonly occurs during pregnancy. A hemorrhoid is diagnosed by observing several characteristics around the rectal area.

Painful Sensations Around the Anus

• Straining while going to the bathroom causes the veins around the anus to crack. The infected area usually stings or burns, and blood may be present.

Itching Sensations

• Hemorrhoids also cause itching sensations around the anus. The cracked skin worsens itching sensations. A soothing hemorrhoidal cream, such as Preparation H, lessens the urge to itch.

Anus Looks Swollen and Distended

• A hemorrhoid usually swells in the external portion of the anus, swelling around the anus opening. The hemorrhoid is usually red and smooth, surrounding the anus like a doughnut hole.

Swelling Feels Hard and Tender

• A hemorrhoid will protrude slightly from the anus and feel hard. The hardness of the hemorrhoid depends on how swollen the veins are inside the hemorrhoid.

Swelling Lasts Temporarily

• Hemorrhoids typically last for a week. Anal swelling that lasts for more than 1 week is usually not a hemorrhoid, and requires immediate diagnosis by a physician.

Blood in Stools

• Hemorrhoids burn and crack around the anus, causing the veins the burst. Blood mixes in with the stool, and sometimes causes the anus to bleed.