Generally speaking, hemorrhoids are veins that are swollen in the anal canal. It helps to know about all types of hemorrhoids. Sometimes symptoms may sound like hemorrhoids when they are something else. An example of this would be anal fissures which are a tear in opening of the rectum. Anal fissures come from pushing a hard bowel movement or releasing a loose bowel movement and tend to show up mostly with adults and infants between ages 6 to 24 months. It is highly recommended that a diagnosis be made by a medical professional. Whenever blood passes through the rectum it is cause for concern.

Of the types of hemorrhoids there are both internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are the result of veins swelling inside of the rectal canal. They may be detected when blood is noticed on the feces, on the toilet paper or in the toilet. Sometimes this type of hemorrhoid will become larger from the swelling and bulge out. This is called an external hemorrhoid. This may end up painful with tightening of the anal muscles. Internal hemorrhoids can show up as mucus with blood on the stools, on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. If hemorrhoids have blood supply cut off, pain usually is the result. It is possible to have both internal and external hemorrhoids.

It is not unusual to have hemorrhoids at some time in life. Pregnancy-during the last 6 months, constipation, straining to have bowel movements and diarrhea all may contribute to hemorrhoids. Pregnancy related hemorrhoids are a triple threat as they might happen as a result of straining to move bowels, or they may result from pressure on pelvic blood vessels and they can worsen from childbirth. Both types of hemorrhoids do not change but can occur in tandem.

Diagnosis by a physician is determined by completing a health history and physical exam. There usually is no need for additional testing to diagnose. A doctor will be able to distinguish the types of hemorrhoids by examining with a gloved finger insertion and use of a rectal scope. If there is still a question the physician may order additional tests. One of the concerns that will be addressed is the possibility of any cancer in the colo-rectal or anal area. Most hemorrhoids are easily treated at home. There may be a need for a doctor to use a rubber band or scarring procedure to isolate and cut off the hemorrhoids. In other cases it may be necessary to surgically remove hemorrhoids.