Can hemorrhoids cause anal pain?

Hemorrhoids can cause pain in the anal area, especially when they are inflamed, swollen, thrombosed, or infected. External hemorrhoids have a rich surface nerve network, which often causes severe pain when stimulated, while internal hemorrhoids usually do not cause obvious pain. They only cause pain in the anal area when they prolapse or are complicated by thrombus.

The cause of perianal pain is closely related to the type and complications of hemorrhoids. When external hemorrhoids are subjected to mechanical friction or thrombosis, hard nodule-like lumps will appear accompanied by persistent swelling and pain; annular prolapsed internal hemorrhoids can easily lead to local muscle spasms, causing paroxysmal colic; if combined with anal fissures or infections, the pain may manifest as tingling or burning. In some cases, behaviors such as sitting for a long time, constipation, and straining to defecate can aggravate the symptoms. When inflammation worsens, local swelling and even pus discharge will also be accompanied by more obvious pain and discomfort. Perianal pain may also be caused by other anorectal diseases such as anal fissures, perianal abscesses, etc., and should be treated differently.

To relieve the perianal pain caused by hemorrhoids, local warm water sitz baths, topical medications such as hemorrhoid creams, suppositories, etc. are common countermeasures. If thrombosis occurs, painkillers such as ibuprofen can be taken under the guidance of a doctor in combination with anti-inflammatory treatment. In severe cases, such as thrombosed external hemorrhoids, minimally invasive surgical resection can be considered. In terms of diet, increasing dietary fiber intake, eating more oats, spinach, etc., and maintaining smooth daily bowel movements can effectively reduce irritation. Moderate exercise every day helps promote blood circulation, reduce venous congestion, and avoid sitting for long periods of time. If the pain continues to worsen, or if an infection is suspected, you should see a doctor as soon as possible, and the doctor will evaluate and adopt a targeted treatment plan.

When facing perianal pain, people may feel exhausted and even ashamed to seek medical treatment, but scientific treatment and proper conditioning of life can really improve the condition. Maintain a positive attitude and pay more attention to daily anorectal health. Pain is not terrible and there are solutions. If you experience recurrent pain or other discomfort, it would be the wisest choice to seek formal medical help as soon as possible.