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Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that occur inside the rectum. It is a relatively common condition. Patients with internal hemorrhoids typically experience less pain but may still experience symptoms including bleeding during bowel movements and, in some cases, a prolapsed hemorrhoid, or a hemorrhoid that exits the anal opening. We have extensive experience in treating this condition.

Information About Internal Hermorrhoids

What are Internal Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a common condition in which veins in the patient’s rectum or anus become swollen and enlarged. Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum. Although internal hemorrhoids can be less painful than external hemorrhoids, they can still cause discomfort and distress for patients who are affected by this condition. The exact cause of hemorrhoids is often unknown, but there are numerous effective treatment options available to ease discomfort and promote healing of the affected area.

Signs and Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids

Although internal hemorrhoids are a normal and extremely common condition, they can cause symptoms for affected patients, including blood appearing during bowel movements and, in some cases, protruding hemorrhoids due to straining during bowel movements. In addition, internal hemorrhoids can sometimes become enlarged over time, producing further issues such as pain or discomfort.

Internal Hemorrhoid Treatment

There are numerous options available for the treatment of internal hemorrhoids. In many cases, symptoms of internal hemorrhoids can be treated without the need for surgery. These treatments might include topical medication or a change in diet. However, in some cases, more intensive care may be needed. Hemorrhoids are typically graded based on their severity, which helps our surgeons determine the appropriate treatment. Our board-certified surgeons are equipped to provide patients with optimal care that is suited to their individual needs.

Elastic Band Ligation

Elastic Band Ligation is a common procedure that can be completed in the office. During this treatment, a small rubber band will be placed around the base of the hemorrhoid. This serves to halt blood supply to the affected tissue. The slowed supply of blood to the area will cause the hemorrhoid to shrink, and the band typically falls off on its own after a period of time during a standard bowel movement. This is a relatively painless procedure with a short or nonexistent recovery period. Patients are typically able to return to normal activity immediately.

Stapled Hemorrhoidectomy

This procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Stapled hemorrhoidectomy is also known as a procedure for prolapse and hemorrhoids, or PPH. The procedure, which will take place in an operating room, includes the removal of enlarged tissue. The unaffected tissue will be repositioned to its previous position to allow for optimal healing. Not all patients will qualify for this procedure; your surgeon will discuss with you to determine whether this surgical procedure is the most suitable option for your unique needs.

Ligasure Hemorrhoidectomy

Ligasure Hemorrhoidectomy is a more advanced procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. It often involves the removal of both external and internal hemorrhoids. It is ideal for patients who have hemorrhoids that are resistant to other forms of treatment. Patients who undergo this procedure may have a longer period of recovery time and experience some pain and discomfort. An aftercare routine will be established with the help of your board-certified surgeon to ensure a smooth road to recovery.

Our Hemorrhoid Experts

Board Certified Surgeons

Our colorectal experts and experienced surgeons are dedicated to providing outstanding colorectal care over multiple issues within Colon and Rectal Health. We are proud to offer full treatments of all grades of hemorrhoids and anorectal conditions to meet the needs of each of our patients.

Aalok Sahai, MD

Board Certified Colorectal Surgeon

Paul Tender, MD

Board Certified Colorectal Surgeon

Rohit Sahai, MD

General Surgeon & Surgical Oncologist

What To Expect After Internal Hemorrhoid Treatment

Recovery after treatment for internal hemorrhoids depends on the severity of the condition and the procedure performed. Minimally invasive options like rubber band ligation and infrared coagulation typically involve little to no downtime, while surgical treatments such as stapled hemorrhoidectomy or Ligasure hemorrhoidectomy may result in mild to severe pain, especially in cases involving internal, thrombosed, external hemorrhoids in combination.

Common post-treatment symptoms may include rectal bleeding or bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, due to healing hemorrhoid tissue or swollen veins. They can usually be managed with sitz baths, fiber supplements, and pain relievers. Practicing gentle bowel habits and maintaining follow-up appointments with a colon and rectal surgeon are essential to monitor for persistent symptomatic hemorrhoids or signs of other issues, such as an anal fissure or colorectal cancer.

How to Prevent Internal Hemorrhoids

While hemorrhoidal disease is common, especially in adults over 50, many hemorrhoid symptoms can be prevented through healthy habits. A high fiber diet rich in high fiber foods helps regulate bowel movements and prevent chronic constipation, a key risk factor for both internal and external hemorrhoids. Staying well-hydrated and avoiding straining during bowel movements all reduce pressure on swollen blood vessels in the anal canal and lower rectum. Avoiding prolonged sitting, using moist wipes instead of rough toilet paper, and not delaying bathroom visits can also help prevent hemorrhoids.

Early signs such as painless bleeding, mucus discharge, or a feeling of fullness may indicate bleeding internal hemorrhoids or an internal hemorrhoid prolapse. Early detection through a physical exam by our skilled rectal surgeons allows for less invasive treatment options before symptoms worsen into painful hemorrhoids, thrombosed hemorrhoids, or require surgical removal.

Frequently Asked Questions About Internal Hemorrhoids

Will internal hemorrhoids go away by themselves?

Some hemorrhoids can go away by themselves, but that is not always the case. Larger internal hemorrhoids often do not go away on their own. If you are struggling with internal hemorrhoids, we offer several treatment options to ensure the hemorrhoid is fully removed.

Will internal hemorrhoids stop bleeding?

Some internal hemorrhoids will stop bleeding on their own, but others continue to bleed and can cause discomfort, pain, and other issues. With the internal hemorrhoid treatments we offer at Arizona Hemorrhoid & Anorectal Center, we can fully treat and remove any hemorrhoids you are struggling with.

What happens to internal hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids can extend beyond the anus if left untreated, causing further problems like irritation and pain.

Who treats internal hemorrhoids?

All our board-certified colorectal surgeons at Arizona Hemorrhoid & Anorectal Center treat internal hemorrhoids.

Who removes internal hemorrhoids?

Colorectal surgeons and general surgeons, like Dr. Aalok Sahai, Dr. Paul Tender, and Dr. Rohit Sahai, remove internal hemorrhoids.

Is it normal to have internal hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids are very common in both men and women. By the age of 50, about 50% of all individuals will have hemorrhoids.

Is there such a thing as internal hemorrhoids?

Yes, internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum, and while they often come with very few symptoms, you may see some slight bleeding on your toilet paper.

How far inside are internal hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids are usually placed so far inside the rectum that you will be unable to see them.

Where is pain from internal hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids are typically pain-free. Internal hemorrhoids only become painful when they protrude outside the rectum and become prolapsed.

Where do internal hemorrhoids hurt?

Internal hemorrhoids typically do not become painful unless they are prolapsed and protrude outside the rectum. At that point, you will likely feel pain when you go to the bathroom or during everyday activities. Treatment is necessary when an internal hemorrhoid becomes prolapsed.

Are internal hemorrhoids painful?

No, not typically. Internal hemorrhoids are usually not painful at all.

Are internal hemorrhoids dangerous?

Internal hemorrhoids are not usually dangerous. If the bleeding is severe, you can experience anemia, but that is rare. Internal hemorrhoids are typically more annoying and possibly painful rather than dangerous.

Can internal hemorrhoids bleed?

Yes. Internal hemorrhoids can bleed, and when they do, the blood you see is typically bright red and usually does not last for long. You may see it on your toilet paper, on the toilet bowl, or streaked on your stool.

What do internal hemorrhoids look like?

While internal hemorrhoids are rarely visible from the outside of the body, they look like protrusions on the anal canal. They have an elongated shape when they become prolapsed.

How are internal hemorrhoids diagnosed?

Internal hemorrhoids are typically diagnosed by a doctor during a rectal or anal exam.

What do internal hemorrhoids feel like?

Because internal hemorrhoids rarely cause discomfort or pain, you likely will not be able to feel them at all. Your doctor will know what to look for during a regular exam.

What to do when internal hemorrhoids burst?

When an internal hemorrhoid bursts, there will likely be some anal bleeding. You will want to see a doctor to properly evaluate the area and ensure you receive proper treatment.

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Schedule a Consultation

If you are interested in learning about our internal hemorrhoid treatment options, please contact Sonoran Surgical in Chandler and San Tan Valley, Arizona today at (480) 646-8440. You can also fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment.