Why Worry About Hemorrhoids?

Most hemorrhoids are inconsequential and a mere nuisance. large hemorrhoids, when they "act up", generally cause discomfort, itching, burning, soiling (from the discharge) and, sometimes, their size hinders anal hygiene after bowel movements. They often cause bright red bleeding from the rectum after a bowel movement. Hemorrhoids rarely cause serious problems, but recurrent heavy bleeding may lead to severe blood loss (anemia).

Bleeding from the rectum requires immediate attention because this may point to some other serious disease, such as cancer.
 

NON-HEMORRHOIDAL CAUSES OF BLEEDING

Although bleeding from the rectum is often caused by hemorrhoids, it is unwise to delay an examination by a physician. There are several serious causes of rectal bleeding, such as cancer of the rectum and colon or diverticulosis or polyps of the colon. A thorough examination, including a sigmoidoscopy, colonoscopy and/or barium enema (lower CI series) is warranted in case of bleeding from the rectum.

A polyp is a benign growth arising from the inner lining of the rectum or colon. A diverticulum is an outpocketing of the lining through the wall of the colon.