Hemorrhoids are broadly categorized as External and Internal Hemorrhoids. Internal Hemorrhoids are found along the upper part of the anal canal, lower end of rectum and the anal-rectal juncture. Internal Hemorrhoids are associated with some symptoms, such as:

Initial Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids

During their initial stage of development, Internal Hemorrhoids don’t cause much pain. Chances are that the individual might suffer occasional episodes of a burning sensation or slightly discomfort when passing stools. This is usually suggestive of the onset of piles. However, as the condition progresses, the pain becomes more localized. It spreads across the anal canal and can often arise independent of passing bowels, making the individual feel uncomfortable throughout the day.

Internal Hemorrhoids are Less Palpable

Internal Hemorrhoids are usually not palpable, i.e. they cannot be felt as easily as External Hemorrhoids. Due to their inner location, visual examination of Internal Hemorrhoids for a medical practitioner too is challenging and requires use of special medical-viewing devices.

Realizing Internal Hemorrhoids

Most patients having Internal Hemorrhoids realize their condition only when they notice small bright-red spots of blood on the stools, toilet paper or in their underwear. This indicates that pressure among the internal hemorrhoidal veins is intense, causing the blood vessels to burst.

Advanced Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids: Bleeding Hemorrhoids

Unlike the bleeding found in cases of ruptured External Hemorrhoids, the coloration of blood among bleeding Internal Hemorrhoids is brighter with a typical dark-red shade. This is indicative that the blood hasn’t originated from blood clots. External Hemorrhoids are more likely to cause thrombosed or clotted Hemorrhoids. When such hemorrhoids rupture, the blood is more darkish blue in color owing to the stagnation of blood within the hemorrhoidal lump.

Differentiating Internal Hemorrhoids from External Hemorrhoids

As compared to External Hemorrhoids, Internal Hemorrhoids induce a lesser degree of rectal discomfort, burning and itching but are more likely to cause bleeding. Internal Hemorrhoids are usually a bit smaller in size than External Hemorrhoids due to more overlying connecting tissue which limits swelling of the hemorrhoidal blood vessels.

Advanced Stages of Internal Hemorrhoids

Only in advanced stages of Internal Hemorrhoids, the hemorrhoid can be felt. This condition is referred to as Prolapsed Internal Hemorrhoid. It is more likely to surface among the elderly. The aged suffer from progressive loss of muscle tone or weakness of musculature. This includes muscles of the anal sphincter. This allows the ballooned hemorrhoidal vein to protrude through the anus. This lump has a soft feel to it. On most occasions, the lump can be manually pushed back into the anus without much pain.

Treating Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal Hemorrhoid Symptoms can be avoided relieved if proper bowel and dietary habits are adopted. If not treated early, Internal Hemorrhoids can worsen into more problematic conditions where the bleeding becomes profuse. Untreated Internal Hemorrhoids are known to turn into anal fistulas or fissures.

You can learn about various natural hemorrhoid treatment options that relieve internal hemorrhoids effectively here.