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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.
GastrointestinalMild

Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They can develop inside the rectum (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external).

Severity
Mild
System
Digestive system
Progression
Self-limited
Treatable
Yes — usually with self-care or routine treatment
Common age
All ages
Duration
Acute (days–weeks)
Contagious
Yes
Emergency risk
High
Digestive system
Affected: Blood in stool
Affected area: Digestive system

Overview

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They can develop inside the rectum (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external).

Symptoms

Click any symptom to analyze
Primary symptoms
Blood in stoolOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Blood in stool”ItchingOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Itching”Abdominal painOpen analyzer pre-filled with “Abdominal pain”

Causes

  • •Chronic constipation or diarrhea
  • •Straining during bowel movements
  • •Pregnancy
  • •Heavy lifting

Risk factors

  • •Aging
  • •Obesity
  • •Pregnancy
  • •Low-fiber diet

How it progresses

3 stages
  1. Onset
    Symptoms appear, often triggered by a known cause.
    Often missed
  2. Active phase
    Symptoms peak; self-care or short treatment usually helps.
  3. Resolution
    Symptoms ease over days to weeks with proper care.

How it's diagnosed

  • •Physical examination
  • •Digital rectal exam
  • •Anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy

Treatment options

General educational information only — no dosage advice. Always follow guidance from a qualified clinician.

Medical
  • •High-fiber lifestyle changes
  • •Over-the-counter topical treatments
  • •Rubber band ligation
  • •Surgical removal (hemorrhoidectomy)
Home care
  • •High-fiber diet and hydration
  • •Over-the-counter stool softeners
  • •Warm sitz baths
  • •Topical ointments or wipes

Complications

  • •Dehydration
  • •Weight loss
  • •Nutrient deficiency
  • •Recurrence of hemorrhoids

Prevention

  • •Wash hands frequently
  • •Avoid close contact with infected people
  • •Stay up to date with vaccines
  • •Eat a balanced, fiber-rich diet
  • •Stay hydrated
  • •Limit alcohol and processed food

When to seek help

Urgent — same-day care
  • •Symptoms persist beyond a few days
  • •Symptoms interfere with daily activities
  • •New or worsening symptoms appear
  • •Concerning changes related to hemorrhoids
🚨 Emergency — call now
  • Heavy or persistent rectal bleeding
  • Black or tarry stools
  • Severe rectal pain
  • Faintness or dizziness

In any emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department.

Real-world questions

  • ›Can Hemorrhoids cause weight loss?
  • ›Can Hemorrhoids cause headaches?
  • ›Is Hemorrhoids reversible?
  • ›How quickly does Hemorrhoids progress?
  • ›Is Hemorrhoids hereditary?

Compare conditions

Hemorrhoids vs Crohn's DiseaseHemorrhoids vs Ulcerative ColitisHemorrhoids vs Food Poisoning

Explore related symptoms

Abdominal painRight lower abdominal painRight upper abdominal painUpper stomach painNauseaVomitingVomiting bloodDiarrhea

Frequently asked questions

What causes Hemorrhoids?

Possible causes of Hemorrhoids include Chronic constipation or diarrhea, Straining during bowel movements, Pregnancy, Heavy lifting.

Is Hemorrhoids dangerous?

Hemorrhoids is generally mild, but severity can vary. Seek care if symptoms are severe or persistent.

How long does Hemorrhoids last?

Duration varies between individuals. Many cases improve with appropriate care, while others may persist longer and require ongoing management.

Can Hemorrhoids go away on its own?

Some milder cases may improve with rest and self-care. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult a healthcare professional.

When should I see a doctor about Hemorrhoids?

Consider seeing a clinician if symptoms are severe, persistent, worsening, or if you have any concerns related to general.

Sources

Information based on general medical references such as:

CDCNHSWHOMedlinePlus

Last reviewed: May 2026

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Educational use only: Symptom.Today is an educational tool and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results are not a substitute for professional medical care. If symptoms are severe, worsening, or concerning, seek medical attention immediately. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.