Hemorrhoid Itching

Why Do Hemorrhoids Itch?

Hemorrhoids can feel itchy or irritated due to swelling and inflammation of the blood vessels around the anus and lower rectum. Inflammation triggers the immune system to release a chemical called histamine, which causes itching and irritation. Scratching the itch can worsen symptoms, leading to more inflammation and making the itching feel even more intense. 

There are also specific reasons why external and internal hemorrhoids might itch.

External Hemorrhoid Itching

External hemorrhoids are located outside of the anus. They are covered by skin that’s very sensitive and can quickly become dry, irritated, and itchy from either excessive effort to keep the anal area clean or lack of hygiene. The following factors can irritate the skin and cause hemorrhoids to feel itchy:

• Excess wiping after a bowel movement
• Using wipes that contain alcohol or other chemicals that can dry out the skin
• Leftover fecal matter after a bowel movement

Internal Hemorrhoid Itching

An internal hemorrhoid that protrudes outside of the anus (a prolapsed hemorrhoid) can cause itching by making the skin moist. Internal hemorrhoids are covered by a lining of mucosa. When they prolapse, they discharge mucus. This extra moisture on the sensitive skin around the anus can cause itching and irritation. 

If a prolapsed hemorrhoid stays outside the anus for an extended period, it will continue to discharge mucus, leading to more trapped moisture against the skin and more severe hemorrhoid itching. The mucus can also mix with fecal matter, making the irritation even more intense. 

The Impact of Hemorrhoid Itching

The itching and irritation can make it difficult to fall asleep or cause persistent discomfort throughout the night. Scratching, extra wiping to try and keep the area clean, or over-cleaning can cause more irritation, dryness, and inflammation, leading to a cycle of discomfort, itchiness, and frustration. A hemorrhoid itch is often accompanied by other symptoms that can make sitting for long periods or passing a stool uncomfortable or even painful. 

Associated Symptoms of Hemorrhoid Itching

Other symptoms that can occur alongside hemorrhoid itching include the following:

• If an internal hemorrhoid causes itching, whether prolapsed or not, the feeling of pain or fullness during a bowel movement may occur due to swelling and inflammation. 
• Internal hemorrhoids can also cause ruptured veins, leading to blood in the stool, toilet bowl, or toilet paper after wiping. 
• Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids can discharge mucus, creating more moisture in the anal region and irritation. 
• If the itching is from external hemorrhoids, it’ll likely be accompanied by lumps or protrusions around the anus. 
• Scratching hemorrhoids can also lead to increased irritation and possibly an infection. 

If you are dealing with any of these symptoms, schedule a consultation with a hemorrhoid doctor for a proper diagnosis. USA Hemorrhoid Centers has top-rated hemorrhoid doctors who can evaluate your symptoms and create a personalized treatment plan so you can start feeling relief from unwanted symptoms. 

Hemorrhoid Itching Treatment Options

In some cases, itchy hemorrhoids will go away on their own. People with external hemorrhoids can get itch relief from over-the-counter treatments and dietary and lifestyle changes to help reduce any pressure on the veins around the anus.

Internal hemorrhoids can require medical treatment to get lasting relief from itching and other symptoms. However, over-the-counter treatments and at-home care can offer temporary relief from itchy hemorrhoids until medical treatment is received. 

Medical Hemorrhoid Treatments

Medical treatments for hemorrhoids can offer long-term relief from hemorrhoid itching and other symptoms. 

• Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE): This non-surgical treatment leaves hemorrhoid tissue intact. HAE is not painful and has a quick recovery.
• Rubber band ligation: This treatment works by tying off hemorrhoids with a rubber band to cut off the blood supply and shrink the hemorrhoid. It’s a somewhat painful non-surgical procedure.
• Infrared coagulation: This procedure uses infrared light to shrink hemorrhoid tissue. It’s also a non-surgical option.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: This is a surgical procedure for severe hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to other treatments. 

Lifestyle Changes for Hemorrhoid Relief and Prevention

Lifestyle changes can help hemorrhoids heal quickly and prevent them from developing again. 

• Eating a high-fiber diet: Adding more fiber to the diet by eating whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds can soften the stool, reducing the pressure on hemorrhoids so they’re less likely to become swollen and inflamed.
• Drinking more water: Water improves circulation, supporting anal veins. It also prevents constipation, which is a possible cause of hemorrhoids. 
• Regular exercise: Physical activity can encourage regular bowel movements, strengthen the abdominal and pelvic muscles, and improve circulation. 

When to See a Doctor About Hemorrhoid Itching 

Hemorrhoid itching can impact your quality of life and lead to more severe symptoms or complications, such as burning irritation in the anal area and an infection. If itching and other hemorrhoid symptoms don’t start getting better after one week or are severe, schedule a consultation with an experienced hemorrhoid doctor. A hemorrhoid specialist can provide an evaluation and recommend the best treatment for you. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers has non-surgical hemorrhoid clinics nationwide. Our doctors treat hemorrhoids non-surgically with hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE). Schedule a consultation at a hemorrhoid treatment center near you to consult with one of our expert doctors and find out if HAE can help you get relief from your symptoms.