Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and around the anus. Hemorrhoid symptoms include itching, pain, swelling, and bright red blood after a bowel movement. They are very common and usually improve with home care.

What Is It

Hemorrhoids form when pressure builds in the veins of the rectum. Straining, constipation, sitting for long periods, pregnancy, heavy lifting, and low fiber raise the risk. Internal hemorrhoids are inside the rectum and often bleed without pain. External hemorrhoids are under the skin and can form a painful clot.

Symptoms

Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl
Itching or irritation around the anus
Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
A soft lump near the anus
A hard, very painful lump from a clot
Swelling

Not sure it’s hemorrhoids? Hard stools and straining from constipation are the most common trigger. Dark or black stool, or blood mixed into the stool, has other causes and needs to be checked.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines the area to confirm hemorrhoids and rule out other causes of bleeding. Treatment usually includes creams, fiber, and stool softeners. Hemorrhoids that keep coming back may need a specialist.

At home:

Eat more fiber and drink more water
Take warm sitz baths for 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day
Use over the counter hemorrhoid cream or witch hazel pads
Do not strain or sit on the toilet for long

Most hemorrhoid flares improve within a week.

When to Get Care for Hemorrhoids

Watch at Home

Mild itching or a small amount of bright red blood
Improving with fiber and sitz baths
A known hemorrhoid flare

Come to Urgent Care Today

A hard, very painful lump near the anus
Bleeding that lasts more than a few days
Hemorrhoids not improving after a week of home care
Rectal bleeding for the first time, especially over age 40

Go to the Emergency Department

Large amounts of rectal bleeding, or dizziness or fainting
Black or tarry stool
Severe pain with fever
Bleeding with severe belly pain

FAQ

What do hemorrhoids feel like?

Hemorrhoids often feel itchy, sore, or swollen around the anus. A clotted external hemorrhoid feels like a hard, very painful lump.

How long do hemorrhoids last?

Most hemorrhoid flares improve within a week with home care. A clotted hemorrhoid can take 2 to 3 weeks to fully heal.

What is the fastest way to shrink hemorrhoids?

The fastest way to shrink hemorrhoids is warm sitz baths, hemorrhoid cream, more fiber and water, and avoiding straining.

Is bleeding from hemorrhoids normal?

Small amounts of bright red blood are common with hemorrhoids. Heavy bleeding, dark stool, or bleeding with dizziness needs care right away.

Can urgent care treat hemorrhoids?

Yes, urgent care can treat hemorrhoids. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine the area, rule out other causes of bleeding, and discuss treatment.

When is rectal bleeding an emergency?

Rectal bleeding is an emergency when it is heavy, comes with dizziness or fainting, or stool is black or tarry.

Last reviewed October 2026