Symptoms of Internal and External Haemorrhoids

Symptoms of Internal Haemorrhoids

A splash of bright red blood at defecation : The most common symptom of internal haemorrhoids is bright red blood covering the stool. 

Pain in the anus : Internal haemorrhoids do not cause pain, but they can bleed and prolapse. When they prolapse internal haemorrhoids can cause pain. 

Mucus on underwear and itch : Internal haemorrhoids deposit means onto the skin around the anus when they prolapse. This mucus contains some stool contents that can cause localized dermatitis and itching. Mucus may cause staining of the underwear. 

Symptom of External Haemorrhoids

Itching : External haemorrhoids can get thrombosed due to physical exertion, severe straining, a bout of diarrhoea or a change in diet. This produces a painful swelling around the anus. The pain lasts for 7-14 days and decreases slowly. With resolution of the thrombosis, the stretched skin persists as excess skin or skin tags. 

Pain : Bleeding : External thromboses can occasionally erode the overlying skin and cause bleeding. 

Diagnosis of Haemorrhoids

Many anorectal problems like fissures, fistulae, abscesses, or irritation and itching ( pruritus ani) have symptoms similar to haemorrhoids. Therefore investigations are necessary to rule out these conditions. 

Anoscopy and proctoscopy are done to view internal haemorrhoids. Sigmoidoscopy and colonoscopy are done to rule out other causes of gastrointestinal bleeding. X-ray ( Barium enema) is suggested if proximal colonic disease is suspected as a cause of bleeding. Colonoscopy and barium enema are reserved for cases of bleeding without an identified anal source. 

Anal Fissure and Haemorroids
Symptoms, Causes and Diagnosis Anal Fissure and Haemorroids
Haemorrhoids
Symptoms of Internal and External Haemorrhoids
Treatment for Haemorrhoids