Why Do Hemorrhoids Discharge Mucus?

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed cushions of veins and supportive tissue located around the anus and lower rectum. Enlarged hemorrhoids can discharge fluid when they become inflamed, leading to moisture and discomfort around the anus.

Mucus discharge can vary based on the type of hemorrhoid. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop inside the anus. These hemorrhoids can discharge mucus and bleed if they are inflamed and irritated. When they become very swollen and stretched, they can prolapse or fall out of the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids can cause irritation and itching around the area outside of the anus because of the mucus secretion.²

External hemorrhoids, which form outside of the anus, can also secrete mucus when they become inflamed. 

What Does Mucus Discharge from Hemorrhoids Look Like?

Mucus discharge from hemorrhoids is a clear or whitish color. It’s slightly thicker than water and has a gooey, jelly-like consistency. Hemorrhoid mucus can appear on the stool, toilet paper, or underwear.

If a hemorrhoid becomes infected and emits pus with mucus, the discharge will appear yellowish. Likewise, if there’s blood from an inflamed anal vein, the mucus discharge can appear slightly red. 

It’s also important to track the amount of mucus (small amount vs. more substantial) or whether it’s constant or intermittent, as this information will help make a treatment decision.

Impact of Hemorrhoid Discharge on Daily Life

Hemorrhoids are very common, impacting over half of adults over age 50.³ Despite how common they are, having to deal with symptoms like anal discharge can make someone feel embarrassed, affecting their self-confidence. 

Hemorrhoid mucus discharge can also lead to more severe symptoms, including increased inflammation and irritation, making things like sitting down very uncomfortable. The discharge can irritate the surrounding skin, causing itching and discomfort. Frequent scratching may worsen the condition, resulting in further fluid secretion and irritation.

Hemorrhoid discharge can also lead to anal eczema — a condition where the skin around the anus becomes red, inflamed, and itchy. This irritated skin may produce additional fluid, causing small blisters or scabs to develop.¹

Hemorrhoid discharge can also cause hygiene issues. It might be more challenging to keep the area clean when the skin is irritated and inflamed because wiping is painful. 

If hemorrhoid symptoms, such as mucus discharge, begin to affect your quality of life, it is important to consult an experienced medical professional. A thorough evaluation can help identify the severity of your condition, and a personalized treatment plan can be developed to alleviate symptoms.

Treatment for Hemorrhoid Mucus Discharge

While awaiting medical treatment, you can try at-home remedies to manage hemorrhoid-related discharge and other symptoms.

At-Home Treatments

• Over-the-counter hemorrhoid creams, suppositories, and ointments that contain active anti-inflammatory ingredients can help reduce inflammation, swelling, and mucus discharge. 
• Witch hazel helps soothe irritation and reduce inflammation. 
• Warm shallow baths, called sitz baths, can temporarily relieve swelling and inflammation. 
• High-fiber foods can reduce constipation, which can be a cause of hemorrhoids.

Overall, try to keep the anal area clean and as dry as possible. Use soft, unscented wipes and pat the area dry instead of rubbing can help soothe the irritation. If mucus discharge and other hemorrhoid symptoms still occur after a few days of at-home care, see a hemorrhoid doctor to find out if medical treatment may be required. 

Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization Treatment

Medical hemorrhoid treatments, particularly for internal hemorrhoids, can effectively address symptoms such as mucus discharge. In many cases, non-surgical procedures like hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) are highly beneficial.

HAE is a minimally invasive, painless procedure that addresses the root cause of mucus discharge by shrinking hemorrhoids. The benefits of HAE for hemorrhoids include effective symptom relief and long-term results with a quick recovery. 

When to Seek Medical Treatment for Hemorrhoid Discharge

If hemorrhoid discharge persists for more than a few days, it is advisable to seek medical guidance. Internal hemorrhoids that become enlarged and inflamed often do not resolve on their own. Without treatment, they can continue to grow, worsening symptoms, increasing discomfort, pain, and the risk of complications. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers is home to world-class hemorrhoid specialists with years of experience treating hemorrhoids non-surgically. We have treatment centers nationwide, making it convenient to schedule a hemorrhoid consultation near you, meet with an expert doctor, and get the personalized treatment you need to feel better. Schedule an appointment at a USA Hemorrhoid Centers location near you today.