When Rectal Bleeding Requires Medical Attention
It’s never a good feeling when you discover blood after a bowel movement. It’s a problem that requires investigation, since rectal bleeding has both benign and serious causes.
2 Types of Hemorrhoids and What They Mean
Over half of the American population over the age of 50 has had an experience with hemorrhoid symptoms. Everyone has hemorrhoids but it’s not until you develop problems that they may need treatment.
A visit to Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists in Parker, Colorado, can lead to diagnosis and treatment of your hemorrhoid issue. Proctologist and hemorrhoid expert Dr. Lisa Perryman specializes in non-surgical solutions whenever possible, though treatment depends on the type of hemorrhoids you have, as well as the severity of your condition.
Why hemorrhoids occur
Tissue in your rectum and anus can bulge and swell under pressure. This stretching leads to symptoms like:
- Anal itching or irritation
- Sensations that develop into discomfort or pain
- Swollen tissue around the anus
- Bleeding
A family history of hemorrhoids increases the chance that you’ll develop them. Other risk factors contributing to the condition include:
- Age
- Frequent straining during bowel movements
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Long periods of sitting on the toilet
- Heavy lifting
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Elevated body mass
- Low-fiber diet
Any situation that leads to strain in the lower pelvis can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
2 types of hemorrhoids
There are two types of hemorrhoids, defined by where they’re located.
Internal hemorrhoids
These start inside the rectum and generally create few symptoms. You may become aware of them when straining through a bowel movement produces small amounts of bright red blood with your stool. Internal hemorrhoids can become prolapsed if the tissue pushes through the anal opening, where it becomes irritated and painful.
External hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids start in the outer skin around your anus. The first sign is often irritation and itchiness in the anal area. This region may also experience swelling, and pain can range from uncomfortable to painful. Often blood can pool and clot in an external hemorrhoid. This is called a thrombus, and it can create severe pain, inflammation, and swelling.
When to visit a doctor
Hemorrhoid symptoms usually clear up in a few days. If you have significant pain, contact our office and arrange an exam with Dr. Perryman. Though rectal bleeding is common with hemorrhoids, it can also be a symptom of more serious conditions, particularly when it’s accompanied by changes in bowel movement consistency or frequency.
You can reach Colorado Colon & Rectal Specialists by phone or online to schedule your visit. Don’t wait for further complications. Book your appointment today.
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