Do hemorrhoids bleed?

Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
Updated on January 13, 2025
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Hemorrhoids can progress to a stage where there is rectal bleeding characterized by bright red blood that is separate from the stool. This is caused by the severe tortuosity and dilation of the superior hemorrhoidal veins. As the hemorrhoids worsen, congestion and dilation of the hemorrhoidal venous plexus become more pronounced. In the presence of bowel dysfunction and hard stools, the hemorrhoidal venous plexus can be injured, leading to rupture and bleeding. Initially, the bleeding is typically minimal yet frequent. Over time, this may lead to frequent and substantial bleeding. Chronic bleeding from hemorrhoids can cause chronic blood loss anemia, which impacts the physical and mental health of the individual.

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Written by Xu Jun Hui
General Surgery
44sec home-news-image

Do hemorrhoids bleed?

Hemorrhoids can progress to a stage where there is rectal bleeding characterized by bright red blood that is separate from the stool. This is caused by the severe tortuosity and dilation of the superior hemorrhoidal veins. As the hemorrhoids worsen, congestion and dilation of the hemorrhoidal venous plexus become more pronounced. In the presence of bowel dysfunction and hard stools, the hemorrhoidal venous plexus can be injured, leading to rupture and bleeding. Initially, the bleeding is typically minimal yet frequent. Over time, this may lead to frequent and substantial bleeding. Chronic bleeding from hemorrhoids can cause chronic blood loss anemia, which impacts the physical and mental health of the individual.

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Written by Huang Gang
Gastroenterology
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Is it scary to have bleeding hemorrhoids?

Firstly, hemorrhoids are soft venous masses formed by the dilation and excessive twisting of veins under the mucous membrane and the skin at the end of the rectum. During defecation, the stool rubs against the raised twisted veins, and the straining during defecation causes increased pressure on these vessels, leading to rupturing of the hemorrhoidal veins and resulting in bleeding with the stools. If the amount of bleeding is significant, it can lead to symptoms like anemia and dizziness. If the bleeding is minor, it generally does not pose a problem. Therefore, if there is a case of hemorrhoidal bleeding, it is best to visit the colorectal surgery department of a hospital for a proper diagnosis and, if necessary, surgical treatment can be performed to prevent recurrence of the bleeding.

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Written by Du Rui Xia
Obstetrics
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What should pregnant women do about hemorrhoids?

Women who develop hemorrhoids during pregnancy should stop eating spicy and stimulating foods. They should eat more vegetables and fruits that are rich in fiber to facilitate bowel movements, such as bananas, daylilies, black fungus, apples, peaches, and pears. They can also use some medications for sitz baths, twice a day after each bowel movement, once in the morning and once in the evening. Additionally, they should avoid standing or sitting for long periods and can perform anal lifting exercises or massage the anal area. Massaging can help with blood circulation and can be somewhat helpful in improving hemorrhoids.

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Written by Liu Huan Huan
General Surgery
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How to stop bleeding from hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are very common in clinical settings. Their main clinical manifestations are rectal bleeding and the prolapse of anal lumps. When a patient experiences rectal bleeding, the first step is to instruct the patient to maintain a light diet, avoiding spicy, greasy, irritating, and hard foods. Hemostasis can be achieved through some oral medications. Secondly, local compression with gauze can be used for hemostasis. Third, topical applications of hemorrhoid ointments can also be used for hemostasis. Finally, if the above treatments are ineffective, surgical methods can be used for hemostasis. (Medication should be used under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Ren Zheng Xin
Gastroenterology
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How often does hemorrhoids cause bleeding?

Internal hemorrhoids can cause rectal bleeding, typically occurring during defecation, ranging from dripping to jet-like bleeding. Rectal bleeding is painless, and prolonged bleeding can lead to anemia characterized by loss of appetite, fatigue, and lack of concentration. It is important to timely apply hemostatic medications or opt for treatments like electrocoagulation, banding, or surgery. Dietary adjustments should be made by increasing the intake of vegetables and fruits and reducing spicy, greasy, and irritating foods. Regular routines should be maintained, avoiding prolonged sitting, and using warm water for sitz baths every evening can effectively relieve the symptoms of hemorrhoidal venous dilatation.