An Overview of Internal Hemorrhoids

An Overview of Internal Hemorrhoids

Mesoth.net - Internal hemorrhoids may be the most unpleasant type of hemorrhoids that you experience.  They can be painful depending on the severity of the condition.  Usually they are easily treatable but there are cases where medical intervention may be needed.

Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids

The varicose veins around the anus are similar to those found in the legs.  In the case of anal veins, they surround the anus and when they swell they either hang just outside the anus or they can protrude inside.

The first indication many people get when they have hemorrhoids is they will see blood in the toilet paper when they wipe themselves.  Blood in the stool is also a very common symptom.  Unless accompanied by severe pain, this is usually nothing to worry about.

The hemorrhoids, or piles, are usually the veins that are attached to the anal wall.  When they bulge, these can be squeezed by the anal muscles and this is what causes the pain.

There is a condition called strangulation in which the blood supply to the hemorrhoid is cut off and, in which case, a physician will have to be contacted for professional help.

Types of Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids come in four different degrees of severity, they are:

• First degree – when a person has a bowel movement, this type of hemorrhoid will simply bulge out into the anal canal.  There may be some discomfort or irritation.
• Second degree – this type will bulge out of the anus during bowel movements and then retract by itself.  There may be minor irritation.
• Third degree – similar to the second, but one will need to push the hemorrhoid back in.
• Fourth degree – this type will protrude from the anus continuously and cannot be pushed back in. These can be rather painful and a physician will have to be contacted for professional help.

When Should I Speak to My Doctor About My Hemorrhoids

Usually hemorrhoids are not something to stress too much about and they can be cured with simple treatments like suppositories or creams.  However, if you do keep experiencing irritation and pain, then you will most likely want to see a physician.  But if you have any doubts whatsoever, it is important that you do see your doctor.

A physician may be able to rule out any of the causes that are not the reason for your hemorrhoids.  Based on the degree of the problem, a physician may be able to recommend a treatment for the condition.

Before further examinations or recommending a treatment, the doctor will probably  complete a rectal exam with his/her finger and use an anoscope to examine the hemorrhoidal region.

By : dr. Mary Collings

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