For those with internal hemorrhoids, bleeding is the most common sign.
Most of the time, hemorrhoids can be treated at home.
Serious cases may require in-office procedures likeelectrocauteryor surgeries like ahemorrhoidectomy.
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This article describes the causes and symptoms of hemorrhoids.
It also explains when it is time to see a healthcare provider along with the various treatment options.
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What Are the Causes of Bleeding Hemorrhoids?
In most cases, the tissues will return to their normal size after the pressure eases.
What Are the Symptoms of Bleeding Hemorrhoids?
In some cases, an internal hemorrhoid can bulge outside of the anal canal, causing aprolapsed hemorrhoid.
Bleeding is common with internal hemorrhoids.
These are far more concerning and require immediate medical attention.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids are more likely to be painful but less likely to bleed.
However, bleeding can occur if there is athrombosed hemorrhoid.
This is a key in of hemorrhoid caused when ablood clotobstructs a vein in or around the anal canal.
You may also notice tiny clots on toilet paper or stools.
If bleeding is the main concern, medications may be of little help other than to ease pain.
In such cases, an in-office or surgical procedure may be needed.
Options include:
Ways to Treat Bleeding Hemorrhoids at Home
Hemorrhoids often respond well to self-care treatments.
This may involve diet and lifestyle changes, simple home remedies, and over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
Studies suggest that increasing your fiber intake can reduce hemorrhoidal bleeding by as much as 50%.
Increasing your fluid intake is also important asdehydrationis a leading cause of constipation.
Most adults should aim to drink at least eight 8-ounce glasses of fluids per day.
Plain water is best.
Home Remedies
One of the most effective ways to ease hemorrhoidal pain is with asitz bath.
A sitz bath is a shallow pan you sit in that usually fits over the seat of your toilet.
Sitting in lukewarm water can promote circulation and aid with the healing of inflamed and damaged tissues.
Sitting in a bathtub filled with a few inches of lukewarm water can also work.
This helps shrink blood vessels, reducing swelling and helping stem minor bleeding.
OTC Medications
Over-the-counter hemorrhoid treatmentsare also effective in easing symptoms by either shrinking tissues or numbing pain.
They are intended for short-term use and are available as creams, ointments, pads, and suppositories.
Options include:
Reducing inflammation and shrinking blood vessels may also help stem minor bleeding.
Preventive measures include:
Summary
Bleeding is a common symptom ofinternal hemorrhoids.
It is usually painless and causes bright red streaks of blood on stools or toilet paper.
Hemorrhoids tend to respond well to home remedies, but severe cases may require medical treatments, including surgery.
See a healthcare provider if hemorrhoidal bleeding persists or worsens.
If the bleeding is severe or accompanied by fever and other symptoms, seek immediate medical care.
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