What are the types of hemorrhoids?
There are two types of hemorrhoids — internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids usually are not painful, but may bleed. Sometimes, an internal hemorrhoid may stretch until it bulges outside the anus. This is called a prolapsed hemorrhoid. A prolapsed hemorrhoid can go back inside the rectum on its own over time, or it can be gently pushed back inside. If the prolapsed hemorrhoid cannot be pushed back inside, consultation with a physician about surgical treatment options is necessary. External hemorrhoids involve the veins around the anus. They can be itchy or painful and can sometimes crack and bleed. If a blood clot forms, one may feel a tender lump on the edge of the anus, and see bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet after a bowel movement.
