Hemorrhoids are a common condition. These swollen blood vessels, located in the rectum or anus, often cause bleeding.
Understanding Hemorrhoidal Bleeding
Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins within or around the anal canal. Bleeding typically occurs because the walls of these swollen blood vessels are fragile and can easily rupture.
Common triggers for hemorrhoidal bleeding include straining during bowel movements, passing hard stools, or irritation to the affected area. Internal hemorrhoids, located inside the rectum, often manifest with bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or streaked on the stool. External hemorrhoids, found under the skin around the anus, can also bleed and may be accompanied by itching or pain.
When Bleeding Persists
While occasional, mild bleeding is a common symptom, persistent bleeding over several weeks or months is not typical and warrants attention. This indicates the underlying issue causing the hemorrhoids is not resolving.
Reasons for ongoing bleeding include continuous irritation, large or prolapsed hemorrhoids, or chronic constipation. Inadequate management of initial symptoms can also contribute. This signals a need for medical evaluation to address the root cause and prevent complications.
When to Seek Medical Attention
It is important to seek medical advice if rectal bleeding persists for more than a day or two, or if the bleeding causes concern. Certain warning signs indicate a more urgent need for professional medical evaluation. These include experiencing significant pain, noticing dark or tarry stools, or if the bleeding is accompanied by dizziness or weakness, which could signify blood loss.
Changes in bowel habits, severe abdominal pain, or fever along with bleeding also necessitate immediate medical attention. Rectal bleeding can sometimes be a symptom of other, more serious conditions, so a healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis and rule out other potential causes.
Managing Persistent Bleeding
After a medical professional has evaluated the condition and ruled out other serious causes, several strategies can help manage persistent hemorrhoidal bleeding. Lifestyle adjustments are often the first line of approach. This includes increasing dietary fiber intake to 25-35 grams daily through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with drinking plenty of water to soften stools and prevent straining.
Over-the-counter remedies can provide relief for symptoms. These options include creams, ointments, or medicated wipes containing ingredients like witch hazel or hydrocortisone, and warm sitz baths can soothe the area. For cases where conservative measures are insufficient, a doctor might recommend office-based procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation. Surgical interventions may be considered for severe or recurring hemorrhoids that do not respond to other treatments.