What is hemorrhoids: first symptoms, stages and modern treatment

Hemorrhoids are a proctological condition in which blood circulation in the veins of the rectum and anal canal is impaired. As a result, the blood vessels become enlarged, their walls weaken, and hemorrhoidal nodes form. These nodes may become inflamed, bleed, and prolapse outside the anus.

The condition can develop gradually over a long period of time. At first, a person may experience mild discomfort, itching, or bleeding after a bowel movement, but over time the symptoms become more noticeable. That is why it is important not to postpone a visit to a proctologist, as timely diagnosis helps select the most appropriate treatment and prevent complications.

Causes of Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids develop due to impaired blood circulation in the veins of the rectum and anal canal. Under the influence of various factors, the veins enlarge, the vessel walls weaken, and hemorrhoidal nodes form, which may eventually become inflamed and prolapse.

Main causes in men:

• sedentary work and prolonged driving;
• heavy physical exertion and lifting heavy objects;
• chronic constipation and excessive straining during bowel movements;
• excess weight and a sedentary lifestyle;
• excessive alcohol consumption, spicy foods, and smoking;
• age-related changes and genetic predisposition.

Causes of hemorrhoids in women:

The causes of hemorrhoids in women are often associated with hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins of the pelvic area:

• pregnancy and childbirth;
• hormonal fluctuations, including during menstruation or menopause;
• chronic constipation;
• wearing tight clothing and high-heeled shoes;
• a sedentary lifestyle.

Understanding why hemorrhoids develop in your specific case helps the doctor choose the most effective treatment and reduce the risk of recurrence.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

The signs of hemorrhoids depend on the type and stage of the condition, but the most common symptoms include:

• bleeding during or after a bowel movement, with bright red blood visible on toilet paper or in the stool;
• discomfort, pain, or a burning sensation in the anal area;
• itching and irritation of the skin around the anus;
• a feeling of a foreign body or incomplete bowel emptying;
• prolapse of hemorrhoidal nodes.

Symptoms are generally similar in both men and women. However, in women, discomfort may worsen during pregnancy, menstruation, or after childbirth due to hormonal changes and venous congestion.

Types of Hemorrhoids and What They Look Like

The appearance of hemorrhoids depends on whether they are internal or external.

Internal hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and are therefore not visible externally in the early stages. Their presence may be indicated by blood in the stool, discomfort, or a sensation of incomplete bowel emptying. In more advanced stages, the hemorrhoidal nodes may prolapse during bowel movements.

External hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids develop beneath the skin around the anus. The nodes appear as soft, bluish-colored swellings. If thrombosis occurs, they become painful and firm.

In men, hemorrhoidal nodes are more commonly associated with physical overexertion, heavy lifting, and constipation. In women, they are often related to pregnancy, childbirth, and hormonal changes. Visually, the manifestations are similar, although women are more likely to have both internal and external hemorrhoids at the same time.

At the first signs of hemorrhoids, it is important to consult a proctologist for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most effective treatment method.

Stages of hemorrhoid development

The disease progresses through four main stages.

• Stage one is characterized by small nodes inside the rectum, periodic bleeding without pain, and no prolapse.

• Stage two involves prolapse of nodes during defecation, which return spontaneously. Bleeding and discomfort increase.

• Stage three requires manual repositioning of prolapsed nodes. Bleeding becomes more frequent, and persistent pain appears.

• Stage four is the most severe, with nodes constantly located outside and impossible to reposition. There is a high risk of complications (thrombosis, tissue necrosis, massive bleeding).

Have you noticed blood? Don’t wait — this is a reason to see a doctor today.

Who treats hemorrhoids and when to see a proctologist

Hemorrhoids are treated by a proctologist (or coloproctologist) — a specialist in diseases of the rectum and colon.

At the ZDRAVO medical center network, you can receive a consultation with an experienced proctologist who will conduct a comprehensive examination and prescribe individualized treatment.

You should seek medical care immediately if you experience:

• bleeding during or after defecation;

• severe pain in the anal area;

• protruding formations near the anus;

• persistent discomfort, itching, or burning;

• fever associated with hemorrhoids;

• inability to reposition prolapsed nodes.

Do not postpone a visit to a proctologist — early consultation significantly increases the chances of fast and painless recovery without surgery.

Can hemorrhoids be completely cured

With timely consultation and proper treatment, hemorrhoids can be successfully treated. At early stages, conservative therapy and lifestyle changes provide excellent results. Minimally invasive procedures effectively resolve the condition at stages two and three.

However, hemorrhoids are a chronic disease with possible recurrences. To prevent exacerbations, preventive measures must be followed even after successful treatment.

Why advanced hemorrhoids are dangerous

Ignoring symptoms can lead to serious complications. Chronic anemia develops due to ongoing blood loss. Node thrombosis causes acute pain and swelling.

Tissue necrosis refers to death of strangulated nodes. Pararectal abscess is a purulent inflammation. Anal fissures cause painful tears in the mucosa.

Symptoms resembling hemorrhoids may conceal colorectal cancer, so early consultation with a proctologist is essential for accurate diagnosis.

How to prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups

Following preventive recommendations reduces the risk of recurrence and helps maintain a stable condition.

Main preventive measures:

Balanced nutrition:
including vegetables, fruits, whole grains, sufficient fiber and water intake to prevent constipation.

Regular physical activity:
daily walks, swimming, exercises to strengthen pelvic floor muscles.

Proper intimate hygiene:
using soft toilet paper or washing after defecation.

Work–rest balance:
avoiding prolonged sitting, taking breaks every 40–60 minutes with light movement.

Healthy bowel habits:
not delaying defecation urges and avoiding excessive straining.

Weight control:
reducing excess weight that increases pelvic venous pressure.

Limiting provoking factors:
reducing alcohol intake and spicy, irritating foods.

Do not postpone caring for your health. Book a consultation at the ZDRAVO medical center, and our specialists will help you eliminate discomfort and return to a full life.