If you think hemorrhoids only happen to old people, you’re in for a surprise. Although they are more familiar with age, hemorrhoids can affect people of all ages – even young adults. If you currently have hemorrhoids, you must get them removed immediately. So if you get pregnant, you can minimize discomfort. Many people do not know that several different types of hemorrhoids vary based on their location and severity. So if you’re curious about this oft-misunderstood condition, grab a cup of coffee and keep reading – we’ll take an in-depth look at the different kinds of hemorrhoids.
Internal Hemorrhoids
The first kind of hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids. These ones develop inside the rectum or anus. Generally speaking, internal hemorrhoids are not visible to the naked eye as they remain in the upper two-thirds of the anal canal. However, if these internal hemorrhoids become large enough, they can protrude outside of the anal opening and cause symptoms such as rectal bleeding, pain, and itching.
External Hemorrhoids
The second kind of hemorrhoid is called external hemorrhoid. Unlike internal ones, these are located outside the anal opening, in the lower third of the anal canal. External hemorrhoids are usually visible to the naked eye and can cause symptoms such as pain, itching, and swelling. They may also bleed if irritated by straining or wiping too hard. You must be gentle with it. This way, you can avoid causing further discomfort.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
The third kind of hemorrhoid is called a thrombosed hemorrhoid. This type of hemorrhoid occurs when an external one becomes swollen and filled with blood clots. Thrombosed hemorrhoids can be quite painful and often require medical attention. They usually appear as a lump near the anus and may need to be lanced or drained to reduce pain and swelling. If left untreated, thrombosed hemorrhoids might cause severe complications such as infection and tissue necrosis.
Prolapsed Hemorrhoids
The fourth kind of hemorrhoid is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid. This type occurs when the internal hemorrhoid becomes so swollen that it protrudes outside the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and cause pain, bleeding, and itching. In some cases, they may need to be surgically removed to relieve the symptoms. Many people suffering from this type of hemorrhoid find great relief from over-the-counter cream or ointment and lifestyle changes such as increasing dietary fiber intake and drinking more water.
No matter which type of hemorrhoid you may have, it’s essential to get it checked out by a doctor. They can treat the condition and help you manage any associated symptoms. It’s also important to practice good hygiene habits to prevent further irritation or complications. Now that you know more about the different kinds of hemorrhoids, you can take action to get the relief you need.