Hemorrhoids Symptoms in Women

When we say the word 'hemorrhoid', the first thing that strikes us is a pathological condition of swollen blood vessels in the region of the anus. However, hemorrhoids also imply the normal blood vessels that are seen in the region of the anal canal. These help with control and passage of stools. But when these same hemorrhoids become pathological, then, they can lead to various problems and symptoms. The hemorrhoids symptoms in women aren't too different from the symptoms in men. However, before we go onto the various symptoms of hemorrhoids in women, let us see what exactly hemorrhoids are, and what are the types of hemorrhoids in women.

Hemorrhoids Types

There are basically two types of hemorrhoids, which are, internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids are seen inside the rectum and are basically varicosities of the veins inside the rectum. These are not painful as this area is devoid of pain receptors. However, these may bleed when they rupture or when they are irritated. These can further become strangulated or prolapsed. The other type of hemorrhoids are the more serious of the two, known as external hemorrhoids or piles. These are varicosities that are present in the region of the veins that drain the inferior rectal arteries and are often painful.

Symptoms of Hemorrhoids in Women

• As mentioned earlier, there are barely any painful symptoms of internal hemorrhoids in women, as this condition is mostly asymptomatic. However, in some cases, they may lead to symptoms like red blood in stool. In fact, one of the main causes of blood in stool is internal hemorrhoids. Although this is not accompanied by pain, it may lead to a certain amount of cause for concern, especially when a person sees the toilet paper completely drenched in blood.
• Besides rectal bleeding, there are a few more symptoms of internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids itching is particularly infamous and can lead to a great amount of discomfort in some women. This is one of the hemorrhoids symptoms.
• If the internal hemorrhoids in women become thrombosed or necrosed, then they may become quite painful. This happens when the hemorrhoid gets thrombosed and the blood supply to the area begins to cut off, which is seen in strangulated hemorrhoid. This needs prompt medical attention because it may become gangrenous, if not tended to on a priority basis. Also, when the size of the hemorrhoid enlarges, then it may impinge on the anal muscles, making it painful to pass stools. If it becomes swollen to a large extent, then along with bleeding hemorrhoids, severe amount of pain will also be experienced.
• In case of external hemorrhoids, one of the main symptoms is the appearance of a painful swelling or a lump around the anus. This is known as external piles. These are by far the most serious and painful type of hemorrhoids and they have a long drawn treatment plan. This area is very painful because it is innervated by somatic nerves and it requires medical attention at the earliest.

Although there are many causes of hemorrhoids in women, like irregular bowel habits, excess of intra-abdominal pressure (which often leads to hemorrhoids during pregnancy), etc. These are all more of contributing factors to hemorrhoids in women rather than their causes. However, one needn't worry as hemorrhoid treatment can be meted out accordingly. There are also many natural remedies that one can try out. However, if the hemorrhoids symptoms become very severe or intolerable, then it is best to seek medical attention, so that the condition can be treated properly before any complications arise.