Hemorrhoids are simply inflamed veins in the area of the rectum and anus. Because of their location and the importance of this location, they can become painful. There are several types of hemorrhoids of which the two most popular are external and internal hemorrhoids.
External hemorrhoids are located on the outside of the anus. Often times these can be painful and will include swelling and irritation. Due to skin irritation that external hemorrhoids can cause often times itchiness will be a major side effect. If the vein is to rupture and blood clot develops the hemorrhoid becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
The second most common type of hemorrhoid is an internal hemorrhoid which follows its name and is located inside the rectum. Inside the rectum your body does not have pain receptors which means that in most cases individuals won't even find out that they have them until visiting their doctor for a check-up.
Although they are un-noticeable, if left untreated, internal hemorrhoids can lead to major problems and more serious forms of hemorrhoids. These next forms can cause problems with the functionality of the sphincter, as if it goes into spasm and traps a prolapsed hemorrhoid outside of the anal opening, the blood supply is cut off, and the hemorrhoid becomes strangulated.
Because of their high likely-hood I recommend not being shy with your family physician and always making sure that checking for hemorrhoids is part of your routinely check-up.
