What exactly is Hemorrhoids?

Before we learn about Thrombosed Hemorrhoids, it is important for us to have a clear knowledge of what exactly are Hemorrhoids. To speak in plain and simple, Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels of the rectum. The hemorrhoidal veins are located in the lowest area of the rectum and the anus. Sometimes they swell so that the vein walls become stretched, thin, and irritated by the passing of bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are classified into two general categories: internal and external.


Internal hemorrhoids are located far enough into the rectum that one can not see or feel them. They do not hurt usually because there are few pain-sensitive nerves in the rectum. The bleeding may be the only sign of their existence. Sometimes internal hemorrhoids gets enlarge and protrude outside the anal sphincter. If so, you can see or feel them as moist, pink pads of skin Pinker from the surrounding area. Prolapsed hemorrhoids may harm and create pain as the anus is dense with pain-sensing nerves. Usually they move inside on their own and if not, they gently pushed back into place.

External hemorrhoids are located inside the anus area and are usually very painful. If an external hemorrhoid prolapses to the outside (usually during passing a stool), you can see and feel. Blood clots sometimes form within prolapsed external hemorrhoids, making a very painful condition called thrombosis. If an external hemorrhoid is thrombosed, can be somewhat frightening, turning purple or blue and may bleed. Despite their appearance, thrombosed hemorrhoids are usually not serious and get resolved in approximately one week. If the pain is unbearable, your doctor may remove the thrombosed hemorrhoid, the pain stops, during an office visit.

Rectal bleeding and pain of any sort is a cause for concern and should be evaluated at the earliest as it may indicate a life threatening situation, such as cancers of the colon.

Hemorrhoids are the No. 1 cause of anal bleeding and are rarely dangerous, but a definitive diagnosis from your doctor is absolutely essential.