subject: Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids - What Are They? [print this page] Within the anal canal there are two sets of nerves - visceral and somatic. Visceral nerves are higher up the internal anal canal and do not sense pain, whereas the somatic nerves found nearer to the entrance are associated with the sensation of pain and will give more notable symptoms of hemorrhoids.
In other words, it is because of these different nerve systems as to why we feel more discomfort with external hemorrhoids as opposed to internal.
When internal hemorrhoids expand and become swollen, they will push down the anal canal and become visible at the opening of the anus. The proper term for this condition is prolapsing internal hemorrhoid. This condition is typically connected with those who are victims of constipation, as it often starts with the passage of hard stools that lead to bleeding and inflammation.
Once the stool has been evacuated, it is likely that the hemorrhoids will retreat back into the anal canal or require some assistance with a clean finger. However, it is also highly likely that another prolapse will occur with pursuing bowel movements.
Although rare, it can happen that hemorrhoids will not retreat back up the anal canal and this is called incarceration. Due to the fact that the blood supply can be cut off entirely, the hemorrhoid's blood vessels will die and the sufferer is then at risk of gangrene - this is one of the more serious symptoms of hemorrhoids and must be examined by a medical professional immediately.
Doctors have concurred on a system for rating hemorrhoids that is associated with how serious they are (much like with burn patients), for the purpose of understanding the condition of swollen hemorrhoids. They remain as listed below:
1.First degree - Bleeding is evident but no prolapse.
2.Second degree - Prolapsed hemorrhoids that retreat without assistance.
3.Third degree - Prolapsed hemorrhoids that require a finger to push them back up the anal canal.
4.Fourth degree - Prolapsed hemorrhoids that will not retreat alone or with a finger.
Now we can take a look at the more observable symptoms of hemorrhoids - when they become external:
* Painful Anal Lumps - this is the sign of a blood clot and must be examined immediately.
* Blood spots evident on toilet paper
It is advisable to seek medical assistance if the problem persists or if pain, bleeding and blood clots become an issue. Your doctor can examine you and suggest possible treatments and actions to prevent future re-occurrence. I hope this article has left you with a better understanding on the symptoms of hemorrhoids.
