NORMAL vs SWOLLEN TISSUE
As food passes from the stomach through the intestines, the waste (stool) then travels through the colon to the rectum. (The rectum is the last several inches of the colon). The waste is then stored in the rectum until it’s ready to be passed from the anus. The anus is the passage between the rectum and the outside of the body.
Hemorrhoid tissues play an important role in helping your body eliminate waste. In fact, hemorrhoid tissues are a natural part of the body. Most of the time, you don’t even notice them. Internal hemorrhoid tissue is in the upper area of the anal canal.
External hemorrhoid tissue lies under the anal skin in the lower part of the anal canal.
During bowel movements, hemorrhoids swell with blood and become slightly larger. This swelling helps protect and cushion the anal canal as stool passes from the body. Once the stool has passed, the tissues stop swelling and return to normal. But, if these tissues stay swollen or become inflamed, due to straining or other factors, they can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as:
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Pain or a burning sensation
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Bleeding during bowel movements
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Protrusion of tissue from the anus
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Itching around the anus
Hemorrhoid tissue both inside and outside the anal canal can be affected.
Swollen hemorrhoid tissues in the anal canal are called internal hemorrhoids.
Swollen tissues around the anal opening are called external hemorrhoids. Depending on the location of the swelling, your symptoms can differ.
If you have hemorrhoid symptoms, you’re not alone. It is a very common problem. The good news is that hemorrhoids can be treated so you feel better |