Internal Haemorrhoids: The Signs People Often Ignore

 

Internal haemorrhoids are a very common health issue – in fact, most people will experience haemorrhoids at some point in their lives. Unlike external haemorrhoids, which form under the skin around the anus and often cause sharp pain, internal haemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and tend to be more subtle. Because internal haemorrhoids usually don’t hurt, many people overlook their early warning signs. This article explains what internal haemorrhoids are and highlights the often-ignored signs and symptoms, so you know when your body is sending you a red flag.

What Are Internal Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids (also known as piles) are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the rectum, meaning you typically can’t see or feel them, and they rarely cause discomfort at first. Straining during bowel movements or other pressure on these veins can cause the internal haemorrhoid to swell and lead to symptoms. Because the rectal lining has fewer pain-sensing nerves, internal haemorrhoids usually don’t cause the sharp pain that external haemorrhoids do. This painless nature is one reason their symptoms are easily ignored.

Subtle Symptoms You Shouldn’t Overlook

1. Painless Rectal Bleeding

The most common sign of internal haemorrhoids is bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement. Because there’s usually no pain, people may brush off a few streaks of blood as “no big deal.” Don’t make that mistake. Painless bleeding is a hallmark of internal haemorrhoids and should never be ignored. Dark or clotted blood is not typical and requires urgent medical care.

2. A Feeling of Fullness or Incomplete Evacuation

A persistent sensation that you haven’t fully emptied your bowels can be caused by swollen internal haemorrhoids. This feeling often leads to unnecessary straining, which worsens the condition. If you regularly feel “not quite done” after using the toilet, an internal haemorrhoid could be responsible.

3. Itching or Irritation Around the Anus

Internal haemorrhoids can cause persistent itching or irritation due to mucus leakage or difficulty cleaning the area. This irritation often doesn’t improve with normal hygiene. If itching is ongoing and paired with other symptoms, it shouldn’t be ignored.

4. Mucus Discharge or Dampness

A clear or yellowish mucus discharge may occur when haemorrhoids prolapse slightly. This moisture can irritate the skin and cause discomfort. While subtle, it’s an important clue when combined with other symptoms.

5. A Protruding Lump (Prolapse)

As haemorrhoids enlarge, they may protrude through the anal opening. These lumps are often painless but can cause discomfort and hygiene issues. Any new lump or tissue protrusion should be medically assessed.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore the Signs

Ignoring haemorrhoid symptoms can lead to worsening prolapse, clot formation, or anaemia from chronic blood loss. Rectal bleeding should always be evaluated to rule out more serious causes such as colorectal cancer.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Seek medical care if bleeding becomes heavy, dark, or persistent, or if you experience severe pain or dizziness. Early assessment ensures correct diagnosis and effective treatment.

Closing Thoughts

Internal haemorrhoids are common and manageable, but their subtle symptoms are often ignored. Listening to your body and seeking help early can prevent complications and bring faster relief.

Sources:

• Mayo Clinic – Haemorrhoids: Symptoms & Causes
• Johns Hopkins Medicine – Haemorrhoids
• Hemorrhoids.com – 5 Signs of Internal Haemorrhoids
• MedStar Health – When to Seek Care for Haemorrhoids
• Cleveland Clinic – Haemorrhoids: Symptoms, Causes & Treatment