Hemorrhoids are small clusters of veins that abnormally swell with blood beneath the surface of the skin. There are two different types of hemorrhoids: internal hemorrhoids, which develop inside the rectum; and external hemorrhoids, which develop beneath the surface of the skin near the anus. Approximately 50 percent of patients age 50 or older have experienced at least one bout of hemorrhoids, according to medical experts at Harvard Medical School. Patients who develop external hemorrhoid symptoms should speak with a doctor to learn more about available treatment options.
Rectal Bleeding
One of the most common symptoms of external hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding, explains UpToDate, a peer-reviewed medical information website. Blood vessels that swell at the surface of the skin near the anus can leak small amounts of blood. As a result, patients with external hemorrhoids can notice red blood on their toilet paper after wiping the anus. Some patients may also notice that their stools appear red or unusually dark due to the presence of blood. Rectal bleeding due to external hemorrhoids is typically mild and painless. Patients who develop rectal bleeding for any reason should seek medical care from a physician as this external hemorrhoid symptom can also be a sign of alternate medical problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome or colon cancer.
Anal Itching
Swollen blood vessels near the anus can irritate and inflame this sensitive tissue. As a result, patients with external hemorrhoids can experience sensations of mild to severe anal itching--a symptom also referred to as pruritus ani, report medical professionals with the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse. These symptoms are typically temporary and will resolve within a few days of onset.
Rectal Pain
Anal inflammation due to swollen blood vessels can be uncomfortable and may cause sensations of rectal pain in affected patients, warns MayoClinic.com. Rectal pain can be mild to severe and may become worse while sitting or during bowel movements. Patients who experience persistent or severe rectal pain should consult a physician for further evaluation and care.
Anal Swelling or Mass
External hemorrhoids can protrude from the surface of the skin near the anus. As a result, patients with external hemorrhoids may notice a swollen or hard lump near the anus, explain NDDIC health experts. This anal swelling or mass occurs when blood begins to clot within the external hemorrhoids. Patients who develop a mass or lump around the anus may notice that the protrusion is tender or painful to the touch. Unusual swelling or mass formation near the anus is not normal and affected patients should discuss these external hemorrhoid symptoms with a physician.
