There are many different types of internal hemorrhoid symptoms, but this relatively simple disorder unfortunately shares many symptoms with other more serious disorders, as well as other simple disorders. Many people have internal hemorrhoids without any symptoms, but the most common symptom is rectal bleeding. Pain, itching, and lumps in the anus may also be associated with internal hemorrhoids. While these symptoms do often indicate the presence of internal hemorrhoids, only a doctor can diagnose this problem with any degree of certainty.
The most common internal hemorrhoid symptoms are various types of rectal bleeding. Bleeding is typically painless, but when a vein gets trapped in certain ways, it can be quite painful. Blood associated with internal hemorrhoid symptoms is typically bright red because it is flowing from very close to the anus. Darker blood usually indicates a problem farther up the digestive tract, which should be investigated by a doctor because it is likely not a problem associated with hemorrhoids.
Other internal hemorrhoid symptoms include itching, pain, and lumps inside the anus. Itching is typically the result of mucus that irritates the anal skin, resulting in itchiness. Pain is often caused by muscles in the anus squeezing a swollen vein, although pain may be a sign that something more serious is wrong. Lumps are sometimes painful, and they often feel like a bulge inside the anus. In some cases, internal hemorrhoid symptoms might include fecal leakage or feeling as though one has not completed a bowel movement, but these can be indications of a much more serious problem and should be investigated immediately.
The degree to which a person experiences these symptoms depends on many factors, including the size of the hemorrhoid and the person's physical health. Certain foods can cause stools that irritate hemorrhoids and draw out symptoms more readily. Being sedentary for long periods of time can also aggravate hemorrhoids and cause a sudden increase in symptoms. Many people first discover that they have internal hemorrhoids when straining during a bowel movement, because this can cause bleeding.
Symptoms of hemorrhoids may go unnoticed for a long time because they are minor, but then they may suddenly become much more severe due to irritation. The symptom most people notice first is rectal bleeding because it is quite alarming. When symptoms first become noticeable, it is a good idea to see a doctor to rule out other conditions like anal fissures and colon cancer. Diagnosis of hemorrhoids typically involves looking inside the anus to find the hemorrhoid or other disturbance, and treatment can be recommended from there.