Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, is a condition where a person’s veins become swollen. The swelling appears internally in the lower rectum or externally around the anus. Most adults over 50 experience the signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids. If ignored, it can lead to itching, pain, and difficulty sitting. The good news is that the condition is easily treatable when detected on time. Let us discuss the warning signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids in detail.

1. Irritation or itching in the anal area
As mentioned, hemorrhoids cause swelling in the rectum and anus. As a result, the blood vessel walls get screeched and become thin, causing irritation. This usually happens after bowel movements. Therefore, anal itching and irritation are considered early warning signs. However, the itching could also be due to other conditions, such as anal fissures, ringworm, or yeast infections.

2. Pain and discomfort
People with external hemorrhoids may feel discomfort, especially when they sit down. Patients may also feel pressure and pain when wiping the area after bowel movements. It usually happens when lumps form around the anal region.

3. Painless bleeding
With hemorrhoids, patients may notice small amounts of blood on the toilet paper after bowel movements. It should be considered a warning sign, and one must discuss it with a doctor for further evaluation. The bleeding usually occurs when the hemorrhoids’ surface gets damaged while passing stool or when pressure is applied while sitting.

4. Protruding tissues
Patients may sometimes notice a tissue protruding from their anal opening. It hurts when they go to the toilet. In some cases, the bumps can be seen too. They are pinker than the area surrounding them and usually go back inside on their own. If not, one can gently push them in place to avoid any discomfort. Protruding tissues are a common symptom of hemorrhoids that must be shared with a doctor.

Internal hemorrhoids can be more frightening as they appear inside a person’s rectum and cannot be felt or seen. Sometimes, they also do not cause any pain due to the absence of pain-sensitive nerves in that area. This makes them even more challenging to detect. In contrast, people with external hemorrhoids may experience pain, itching, swelling, and bleeding.

While the early signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids may appear alarming, they are not usually as serious as they seem. However, that does not mean one can take them for granted. The condition may not be so dangerous, but it does warrant a visit to the doctor if the person is bleeding or the symptoms do not subside within a week. One should schedule a visit to a doctor immediately to rule out severe conditions and seek timely treatment.