What Are Thrombosed Hemorrhoids?

A thrombosed hemorrhoid is an internal or external hemorrhoid with a blood clot. The clot may fully or partially block blood flow through the already swollen veins, causing more swelling, pain, and discomfort. Thrombosed hemorrhoids are relatively common, and they can occur in adults of any age, including young adults.¹ The main difference between external and internal thrombosed hemorrhoids is their location.

Symptoms of External Thrombosed Hemorrhoids 

An external hemorrhoid develops under the skin near the anus and is often visible as a hard, swollen lump. External hemorrhoids are usually painful, and when they become thrombosed, the pain can intensify, especially during a bowel movement. 

Common signs of an external thrombosed hemorrhoid include:

• Pain around the anal area
• Hard, tender lumps around the anus that may be discolored
• Bleeding if the skin breaks

External thrombosed hemorrhoids generally heal on their own, although it can take a few days or weeks. Adding fiber to the diet, drinking more water, and exercising can help the body heal. At-home remedies can also be used to relieve pain and discomfort, such as sitz baths (warm, shallow baths) and ice packs. 

Symptoms of Internal Thrombosed Hemorrhoids 

An internal hemorrhoid isn’t always visible as it develops inside the rectum. However, a large or swollen internal hemorrhoid can prolapse or slide outside of the anus. Minor internal hemorrhoids that aren’t prolapsed aren’t usually painful. A thrombosed internal hemorrhoid that’s prolapsed, however, can cause significant pain and discomfort.

Unlike external hemorrhoids, which often heal on their own after a few days or weeks, an internal thrombosed hemorrhoid may require medical treatment. There’s also a risk of complications, such as an infection or a ruptured hemorrhoid.

Common signs of an internal hemorrhoid with a blood clot include: 

• Severe rectal pain, especially when sitting or during bowel movements.
• Rectal bleeding (bright red blood on toilet paper or in stool).
• A feeling of pressure or fullness in the rectum.
• Mucus discharge or a feeling of wetness, irritation, or itchiness around the anus.

Diagnosis of Internal Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

If you are concerned that you may have a thrombosed internal hemorrhoid, schedule a consultation with a hemorrhoid doctor. They can provide a diagnosis and a personalized treatment plan to help your hemorrhoid heal. A hemorrhoid doctor will perform an exam to determine what’s causing symptoms and to rule out other similar conditions, such as anal fissures, rectal polyps, or colorectal cancer. 

An exam for internal thrombosed hemorrhoids will usually include:

• Physical examination: A digital rectal exam (DRE) to check for swelling, tenderness, and clot formation.
• Anoscopy: A small scope is used to examine the rectum and confirm the presence of thrombosed hemorrhoids.

Why Internal Thrombosed Hemorrhoids Require Treatment

Untreated internal hemorrhoids with blood clots can have significant risks. They can lead to vein rupture, resulting in severe pain, anal bleeding, dizziness, and even fever. Other concerns include:

• A blood clot in an internal hemorrhoid can cause immense pain and increase swelling, putting pressure on the vein and possibly causing it to burst. A ruptured hemorrhoid is extremely painful and can cause anal bleeding, dizziness, and fever.
• Over time, an internal hemorrhoid with a blood clot can cause persistent bleeding or tissue damage.
• The symptoms can affect day-to-day life, causing discomfort and embarrassment.
• The hemorrhoid can also become increasingly severe, swollen, and painful without medical treatment. 

Treatment Options for Internal Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

Internal thrombosed hemorrhoids that require medical intervention often can be treated with a non-surgical procedure. Hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) is a non-surgical approach that reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoids. By cutting off the blood supply, HAE effectively shrinks internal thrombosed hemorrhoids. 

HAE is often preferred for quick recovery with minimal post-procedure discomfort. This procedure requires no cutting or tissue removal. It is a less invasive treatment option for moderate to severe internal hemorrhoids. Very severe cases may require surgery to remove the hemorrhoid.

Get Relief with Non-Surgical Treatment for Thrombosed Hemorrhoids

Internal thrombosed hemorrhoids can impact your quality of life and may cause more severe symptoms if left untreated. HAE is an effective non-surgical treatment for internal thrombosed hemorrhoids, offering relief from the pain, bleeding, and discomfort without the risks of surgery.

Early intervention leads to faster relief and fewer complications, so it’s important to see a specialist if you have symptoms. The experienced hemorrhoid doctors at USA Hemorrhoid Centers can determine if HAE is right for you and give you a personalized treatment plan to help you experience lasting relief. Schedule a consultation at a hemorrhoid center near you today.