Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside the anus that can cause itching, discomfort, and pain. They are often caused by excessive strain during bowel movements, anal intercourse, or pregnancy. Treatment options include topical ointments, suppositories, and medical procedures such as ablation or surgery. Risk factors include sitting on the toilet for long periods, straining during bowel movements, anal intercourse, obesity, and aging.
An internal hemorrhoid is a mass of swollen and inflamed veins inside the anus. People suffering from hemorrhoids often experience constant itching, irritation, and discomfort. An internal hemorrhoid is usually the result of excessive strain placed on the rectal muscles, which can occur during a difficult bowel movement, anal intercourse, or pregnancy. Most hemorrhoids go away on their own within about a week, although people can relieve symptoms and shorten recovery time by using topical ointments or suppositories.
Hemorrhoids usually occur externally, protruding from the edge of the anus. An internal hemorrhoid occurs when the irritated vein remains inside the anal cavity. Internal hemorrhoids typically cause less discomfort than external ones, since sitting and walking don’t cause excessive rubbing on the veins. However, an internal hemorrhoid can still be quite painful and lead to itching and irritation. Some people have difficulty passing stool and bowel movements may appear bloody.
Doctors have identified several potential risk factors for internal or external hemorrhoids. Sitting on the toilet for a long time or straining during a bowel movement can irritate the veins in the anus. Anal intercourse can also put excessive pressure on the veins. Pregnant women and obese people often get hemorrhoids due to the extra weight and pressure placed on their intestines. Aging can also be a factor, as the muscles and tissues within the rectum tend to weaken as people age.
In most cases, an internal hemorrhoid flare-up will last about a week. Individuals can relieve pain and irritation by soaking in a warm bath, keeping the area clean, and using over-the-counter medicated suppositories or topical ointments. The suppositories and creams usually contain a numbing agent and anti-inflammatory chemicals such as hydrocortisone. Since some creams are intended for external use only, it is important to read warning labels carefully before applying the product. An external-only cream can also cause further irritation and itching when used on an internal hemorrhoid.
If an internal hemorrhoid does not go away after two weeks or is causing severe pain, an individual should visit a doctor to learn about other treatment options. After conducting a physical exam, your doctor might prescribe anti-inflammatory medications or inject the hemorrhoid with liquid medication to shrink it. Another medical procedure known as ablation involves exposing the hemorrhoids to infrared light or lasers, which clots the blood and causes the veins to harden and shrivel up. If you have an extremely large or painful hemorrhoid, your doctor may decide to surgically remove it with a scalpel.
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