Hemorrhoids can feel differently depending on whether they are internal or external:
- External hemorrhoids often cause noticeable symptoms such as:
- A hard, tender lump near the anus that can be painful, especially when sitting
* Sharp, throbbing, or aching pain around the anus
* Itching and irritation of the skin around the anus
* Discomfort or pain during bowel movements or wiping
* Swelling around the anus
* If thrombosed (clotted), they can feel very painful, swollen, and may look like a purple lump
- Internal hemorrhoids usually do not cause pain because they lack nerve endings but can cause:
- Bright red bleeding during bowel movements
* A feeling of pressure, fullness, or urgency to have a bowel movement
* Prolapse, where the hemorrhoid protrudes outside the anus, which may feel like a soft, rubbery lump that can sometimes be pushed back in
* Itching or mild discomfort in the surrounding tissue
* Mucous discharge from the anus
In summary, external hemorrhoids tend to be painful, itchy, and can form painful lumps, while internal hemorrhoids are often painless but may cause bleeding and a sensation of pressure or protrusion
