It is thought that almost 90% of Americans suffer from hemorrhoids at some time in their life. It is also known that hemorrhoids tend to worsen as the years go by and are not known to spontaneously resolve or improved with time. For this reason, early and aggressive treatment and even prevention is the best course of action.

Hemorrhoids, often called piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and rectum.

Hemorrhoids may occur as a result of straining to move stool. Other factors which can contribute to hemorrhoids include chronic constipation or diarrhea, pregnancy, aging, and anal intercourse.

The specific type of hemorrhoid is more accurately identified by the exact location of the hemorrhoid, for example, either internal or external hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are classified into four degrees, depending on the severity of hemorrhoid. This allows hemorrhoids to be more easily and consistently evaluated for possible surgery.

Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the veins inside the rectum while external hemorrhoids are located in the veins outside the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are not painful because they lack pain-sensitive nerve fibers.

However, even though they may not be painful, internal hemorrhoids may bleed. Straining with a bowel movement can cause the delicate surface of the internal hemorrhoid to tear and as a result you may see bright red blood on the toilet tissue when wiping or you may even see bright red blood in the toilet.

These internal hemorrhoids can also stretch and bulge outside the anus. If this occurs it is known as a prolapsed hemorrhoid. A prolapsed hemorrhoid can definitely cause pain and irritation.

Itching, pain and bleeding may be seen with external hemorrhoids. These hemorrhoids appear outside of the anus and appear bluish in color because the vein itself which has stretched to form the external hemorrhoid.

When the external hemorrhoid is inflamed it becomes red and tender. One of the complications of external hemorrhoids occurs when a blood clot forms inside of the hemorrhoid. This is known as a thrombosed external hemorrhoid.

Yes, hemorrhoids can cause pain and should be treated before they worsen. Lifestyle changes and medical intervention can certainly make a difference in your discomfort from hemorrhoids.