Hemorrhoids are a common condition involving swollen veins located in the rectum or around the anus. These vascular structures, also known as piles, are a normal part of human anatomy, acting as cushions that assist with stool control. However, when they become enlarged or inflamed, they can cause a range of uncomfortable symptoms. This condition affects a significant portion of the population, with estimates suggesting that about half of adults over the age of 50 experience them.
Hemorrhoid Classification System
Internal hemorrhoids, which develop inside the rectum, are commonly categorized into a four-grade system based on their degree of prolapse, or how much they protrude from the anus. This grading system helps determine the severity and guides potential management strategies.
Grade 1 hemorrhoids represent the least severe type; they are enlarged but remain entirely inside the rectum and do not prolapse outside the anus. While they may cause mild bleeding, they typically do not lead to pain or discomfort.
Grade 3 hemorrhoids are those that protrude outside the anus during straining but do not return inside on their own, requiring manual repositioning. The most advanced stage, Grade 4, involves hemorrhoids that are permanently prolapsed outside the anus and cannot be pushed back inside.
Defining Grade 2 Hemorrhoids
Grade 2 hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids defined by their tendency to prolapse, or protrude out of the anus, particularly during straining.
A key feature of Grade 2 hemorrhoids is their ability to spontaneously reduce. After protruding during straining, they naturally retract back inside the anal canal without manual assistance. This spontaneous return differentiates them from higher grades of hemorrhoids that require intervention to be put back in place.
Recognizing Grade 2 Symptoms
Individuals with Grade 2 hemorrhoids often experience symptoms linked to their characteristic prolapse and self-reduction. One common symptom is bright red bleeding, which may be observed on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or as streaks on the stool following a bowel movement. This bleeding typically occurs due to irritation of the delicate blood vessels when passing stool.
Besides bleeding, discomfort or irritation around the anus is frequently reported. Patients may also feel the sensation of a lump or protrusion during defecation.