Hemorrhoid Symptoms

man in blue jeans sitting on gray chair rubbing buttocks in pain

Fortunately, hemorrhoids are not life-threatening, and symptoms usually go away within a few days—in fact, some people with hemorrhoids never exhibit symptoms. However, common symptoms of hemorrhoids will vary by person and will also depend on whether you have internal or external hemorrhoids. Here are some common symptoms:

Painless bleeding during bowel movements
Anal itch
Anal pain and/or discomfort
Rectal burning and/or pain
Swelling around the anus
A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful
Leakage of feces

Internal Hemorrhoid Symptoms

Internal hemorrhoids can become painful when straining pushes them out through the anus (also called a “prolapsed hemorrhoid”). When this happens, it may cause irritation and itching.

External Hemorrhoid Symptoms

External hemorrhoids can lead to discomfort and itching because they make cleaning this area difficult. If a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid, the pain can be sudden and severe.

How to Treat Hemorrhoid Symptoms

There’s no need to put up with butt discomfort. Watch this video to learn different ways to relieve hemorrhoid flare-up symptoms. From a variety of Preparation H options to lifestyle changes and easy at-home solutions, there are many ways to relieve itching, burning, and pain caused by hemorrhoid flare-ups.

Not sure which Preparation H solution is right for your symptoms? Try our Relief Finder.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

Hemorrhoid symptoms can be similar to or indicative of other more serious conditions. If you have bleeding or think you have hemorrhoids, see your healthcare provider. If your hemorrhoid symptoms began along with a marked change in bowel habits or if you're passing black, tarry or maroon stools, blood clots or blood mixed in with the bowel movements, consult your healthcare provider immediately.² These types of bowel movements can signal more extensive bleeding elsewhere in your digestive tract. Seek emergency care if you experience large amounts of rectal bleeding, lightheadedness, dizziness or fainting.

Emotional Effects

While the physical pain of hemorrhoids can be severe, the emotional aspects can also be difficult. Hemorrhoid symptoms can affect your quality of life.If you suffer from hemorrhoids, you might feel embarrassed, isolated and ashamed as a result of your condition. For more information on how symptoms can affect your emotions, see The Emotional Toll of Hemorrhoids.

How to find Hemorrhoid Relief

Get hemorrhoid relief with products from PREPARATION H. To reduce the pain of hemorrhoid symptoms, you can make lifestyle changes like exercising and physical activity, as well as reducing constipation with a balanced, high-fiber diet. These treatments can help manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Source Citations:

Hemorrhoids and what to do about them. Harvard Health Publishing. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/hemorrhoids_and_what_to_do_about_them/. Accessed 8/30/2023.
Black or tarry stools. MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003130.htm/. Accessed 8/30/2023.

PM-US-PRH-21-00002., PM-US-PRH-21-00058

Preparation H is the #1 Doctor Recommended Brand among OTC Hemorrhoid Treatments

Haleon Huddle unlocks exclusive savings on brands including Preparation H, Advil, Sensodyne and more.

*indicates required field.

I consent to the Haleon group of companies and brands (“Haleon”) collecting my Consumer Health Data. Continue reading...I understand that my Consumer Health Data may be used by Haleon as described in our Washington Consumer Health Data Notice, where I can find the categories of data collected, the purposes of collection, and with whom we may share your information. I understand that if I choose not to consent to Haleon’s collection of my Consumer Health Data, I may not be able to receive certain marketing or informational materials or other forms of communication directly from Haleon or participate in surveys and focus groups. I further understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time as described in the Haleon Washington Consumer Health Data Notice or the Haleon Privacy Notice.

I consent to the Haleon group of companies and brands (“Haleon”) sharing my Consumer Health Data with third parties Continue reading... as described in the Washington Consumer Health Data Notice. I understand that I may withdraw my consent at any time as described in the Haleon Washington Consumer Health Data Notice or the Haleon Privacy Notice.

By signing up for Haleon newsletters, you are certifying you are 18 years of age and older.