Bleeding Hemorrhoids Guide 101 - Discover How to Stop Hemorrhoid Bleeding

Do you have bleeding hemorrhoids? Do you want to stop hemorrhoid bleeding from internal and external hemorrhoids?

IN THIS GUIDE WE WILL DISCUSS HOW TO STOP HEMORRHOID BLEEDING FROM INTERNAL AND EXTERNAL HEMORRHOIDS. PLUS, WE WILL SHARE HOW YOU CAN GET RID OF THROMBOSED AND PROLAPSED BLEEDING HEMORRHOIDS FAST.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are a common occurrence that affect about 1 in 20 Americans. Nearly half of adults over the age of 30 have experienced hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. (1)

It is the development of swollen veins (or vessels) in the anal canal structures.

Obesity, pregnancy, poor hygiene and diet habits, and genetics can all play a part in whether you have bothersome hemorrhoids. While bleeding hemorrhoids are common, many patients panic when they experience this symptom.

Here's all you need to know about bleeding hemorrhoids.

Bleeding Hemorrhoids Treatment

In this section, we discuss the best bleeding hemorrhoid treatment options. 

Bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids. While internal hemorrhoids do not display many symptoms, bleeding can be an indication of internal hemorrhoids.

Some hemorrhoidal bleeding treatments include hemorrhoid supplements, wipes, creams, pillows, suppositories, medical procedures and lifestyle changes.

Here is a full list of bleeding hemorrhoid treatment options:

1. Hemorrhoid Supplements - These work from the inside-out, and are a great addition to the usual hemorrhoid treatments (wipes, creams, suppositories, etc). You can get a top-rated hemorrhoid supplement for as little as $25. 
2. Hemorrhoid Pillows/Cushions - These are also a great way to reduce the irritation, pressure, and stress. Some of the top-rated hemorrhoid cushions cost about $25-$30.
3. Hemorrhoid Creams & Ointments - Most people know to use a hemorrhoid cream. These are a great way to get instant relief from hemorrhoids. There are creams with topical anesthetics, protectants, and astringents like witch hazel.
4. Hemorrhoid Suppository - Another great way to get relief specifically for internal hemorrhoids.
5. Hemorrhoid Wipes - Hemorrhoid Wipes or Pads are an excellent way to stop irritating your hemorrhoids when you use the bathroom. Wiping with a soft, moist hemorrhoid wipe can make a big difference with your hemorrhoids.
6. Medical Procedures - Non-invasive procedures like Rubber Band Ligation can be a good option. Other surgical procedures like a Hemorrhoidectomy can also be an option depending on your hemorrhoid.
7. Lifestyle Changes & At-Home Methods - Doing your best to prevent constipation, diarrhea, straining during a bowel movement, and sitting for long periods of time can help. Plus, you can also take a bath, use a sitz bath, use an ice pack, or take an OTC pain reliever like Tylenol or ibuprofen.

Using even one type of treatment for bleeding hemorrhoids can make a big difference. The best thing you can do is use multiple products to get major relief.

Bleeding Hemorrhoids Home Treatment Options

See one of the links below for guides on the best hemorrhoid products for each category or type of product. These are great treatment options for bleeding hemorrhoids at home. 

Best Hemorrhoid Supplements

Best Hemorrhoid Pillows

Best Hemorrhoid Cream

Best Hemorrhoid Wipes

Best Hemorrhoid Suppository

Most hemorrhoids can be treated at home with over-the-counter remedies. There are ways to change your daily habits that can treat bleeding hemorrhoids.

When it comes to bleeding hemorrhoids, you should consult with your physician or hemorrhoid doctor.

This is because rectal bleeding is also a sign of colorectal or anal cancer. Bleeding with pain can be a sign of an anal fissure or a tear in the skin at the opening of the anus.

Once your doctor has determined that your rectal bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids, there are several hemorrhoid treatments available for bleeding hemorrhoids.

Lifestyle and Dietary Changes Can Help

Constipation is a common cause of hemorrhoids, so avoiding it at all costs can be an effective treatment for hemorrhoids. (2)

Proper diet and hydration are very important for overall health (3).

Plus, it's very helpful when dealing with hemorrhoids.

The use of stool softeners can also be helpful in treating hemorrhoids (4).

Make sure you follow proper hygiene practices and avoid straining during bowel movements.

Internal Hemorrhoids Medical Procedures

Internal hemorrhoids that bleed can be treated with many different options. The rubber band ligation is one of the most common treatment options for bleeding internal hemorrhoids.

Sclerotherapy, also used to treat internal bleeding hemorrhoids, involves injecting the problem area with a caustic agent. Staples and infrared heat are other options as well.

Many people are curious about laser hemorrhoid surgery, which we cover in detail in the laser hemorrhoid surgery guide.

How to Handle Bleeding Hemorrhoids During Pregnancy

There are many different ways you can handle bleeding hemorrhoids while pregnant. Tucks Pads are a very popular medical pad with Witch Hazel that can bring lots of relief. 

Of course, you can use products like hemorrhoid pillow, suppositories, creams, and supplements if your doctor approves it. 

Tucks Pads are great because they are a bit thicker and can go in-between your underwear and the bleeding hemorrhoid.

Many women swear by putting their tucks pads in the freezer and then applying them when they are cold.

You can also use natural remedies like warm baths or ice packs.

A combination of products and natural remedies will be your best bet for postpartum hemorrhoids bleeding. 

Do Hemorrhoids Bleed?

Many patients panic the first time they notice rectal bleeding. While you should always consult your physician, it is rarely a cause for serious concern (5). 

Can hemorrhoids bleed or cause the bleeding you see down there? Absolutely, bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids. In fact, the only true symptom of internal hemorrhoids is the presence of blood during or after a bowel movement.

Since internal hemorrhoids do not cause hemorrhoid pain or other symptoms, blood in the stool or on your toilet tissue paper after a bowel movement may be the only sign that you have internal hemorrhoids.

If you experience bleeding hemorrhoids, consult your physician. But, do not panic. This is a normal and manageable symptom of hemorrhoids. It is normal for hemorrhoids to bleed.

Internal Hemorrhoids Bleeding

Internal hemorrhoids often go undetected because they are in an area of the rectum that does not have pain-sensing nerves (6).

Bleeding is the most common sign of internal hemorrhoids. Without the presence of this symptom, most internal hemorrhoids resolve on their own without the patient even realizing they have hemorrhoids.

Bleeding Hemorrhoids Pictures

Each case of hemorrhoids is different based on its severity, type, and the patient experiencing the symptoms.

There are several causes of bleeding hemorrhoids. Below are some pictures of different types of bleeding hemorrhoids.

Here is an example of stage 4 external hemorrhoid bleeding. This type of hemorrhoid can be very painful.

Treatment often requires a change in lifestyle, such as changing your diet and increasing your hydration. In many cases, this stage of hemorrhoids will need to be treated with a medical procedure.

Internal hemorrhoids can cause bleeding. Although this type of hemorrhoids does not often cause symptoms, bleeding is common with internal hemorrhoids. 

Above is also a picture of internal hemorrhoids.

Prolapsed hemorrhoids bleed often. Prolapsed hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that come out of the rectum and form fimbriae with hemorrhoids around the anus.

Prolapsed hemorrhoids commonly result in surgery. Above is also an example of a prolapsed hemorrhoid.

While thrombosed hemorrhoids do not visibly bleed, they often form into a solid blue pile. The blue color is caused by the blood clot that lies within these hemorrhoids.

This type of hemorrhoid requires immediate medical attention. An example of a thrombosed hemorrhoid can be seen below.

External Hemorrhoid Bleeding

When irritated, external hemorrhoids can cause bleeding. Bleeding during bowel movements is a common symptom and sign of hemorrhoids (7).

Your doctor will do a physical exam to determine whether bleeding is a result of hemorrhoids or a more serious problem.

If your symptoms of bleeding with external hemorrhoids becomes bothersome, try making small changes to treat your hemorrhoids and avoid the irritation associated with bleeding.

Do not strain during bowel movements.

Eat a diet high in fiber and focus on hydration.

Use a stool softener to reduce the effects of constipation on hemorrhoids.

It is very important to determine your hemorrhoid causes and triggers.

Once you do, you can work on fixing the issue before it starts, which is much less painful and better for you. 

Can I Use a Suppository for Hemorrhoids With Bleeding?

While many people love hemorrhoid suppositories, you should be careful using a hemorrhoid suppository when bleeding.

Make sure that you have bleeding hemorrhoids before relying strictly upon a hemorrhoid suppository. 

If you can confirm your problem isn't more serious, then a suppository for bleeding is a good idea. 

My favorite suppository for bleeding hemorrhoids is from Boiron.

What to Do for Bleeding Hemorrhoids

A hemorrhoid is a result of a dilated vein in the rectum or anus that becomes swollen with blood.

If a hemorrhoid burst and bleeds, they can be very painful. If bleeding symptoms occur for the first time or are persistent, it is imperative that you contact your physician.

To treat the symptoms of bleeding, soak in a warm bath or sitz bath for 15 to 20 minutes.

This can reduce irritation and help shrink the veins in your hemorrhoids. Once your hemorrhoids have been reduced, the bleeding should cease.

Placing a hemorrhoid ice pack like hemorrwedge on your hemorrhoids can be another effective treatment (8).

Not only will this stop the pain and swelling associated with hemorrhoids, it will constrict the vessels and stop the bleeding. Use soft toilet paper and resist the urge to scratch.

Scratching your itchy hemorrhoids can cause further bleeding and irritate the area even more. There are also many hemorrhoid supplements available that can help with your bleeding hemorrhoids.

Always consult your physician or a hemorrhoid doctor before you begin using hemorrhoid supplements. Common hemorrhoid supplements include:

• HemRid Max - Our top-ranked hemorrhoid supplement you can purchase on Amazon. HemRid Max is thought to strengthen the veins and reduce hemorrhoid symptoms.

• Oral Flavonoids which reduce the leaking of tiny blood vessels by increasing vascular tone. They have been known to reduce bleeding along with other symptoms.
• Calcium dobesilate can be taken to decrease leaking of tiny vessels, prevent clots, and improve blood viscosity (9).

The worst-case scenario when worrying what to do about your bleeding hemorrhoids is to get a hemorrhoidectomy or other surgical treatment, like laser hemorrhoid surgery.

Talk to your hemorrhoid doctor about the different treatment options available based on your situation. Check out the page for a look at the best hemorrhoid products.

Why Do Hemorrhoids Bleed?

Hemorrhoids are clumps of tissue that contain blood vessels. So, what causes hemorrhoids to bleed?

When hemorrhoidal cushions become enlarged, hemorrhoids become susceptible to trauma from every day habits such as bowel movements.

Bleeding with hemorrhoids is generally mild and does not cause serious issues. Did your hemorrhoid burst and bleed? 

Can Hemorrhoids Bleed Without a Bowel Movement?

Yes, hemorrhoids can bleed without a bowel movement.  Bleeding can occur when an external hemorrhoid forms a blood clot, resulting in a thrombosed hemorrhoid. 

The blood clot can burst, resulting in bleeding around the anal area. 

If you have a thrombosed hemorrhoid, do not attempt to try to "pop" the blood clot open or you could put yourself at risk of getting an infection or causing complications.

If you find that you are bleeding from the anal area, contact your doctor, regardless of whether or not you have hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding can be a sign of another complication or gastrointestinal disorder. 

Do Hemorrhoids Always Bleed?

No, hemorrhoids do not always bleed. 

Often, painless bleeding is a sign of the presences of inflamed internal hemorrhoids. 

While rectal bleeding is a common side effect, this symptom should still be reported to your doctor. 

Rectal bleeding is a symptom that can occur from many gastrointestinal disorders.

External hemorrhoids are one of the two types of hemorrhoids, and usually, these hemorrhoids do not produce blood. 

External hemorrhoids are small rubbery bumps located around the anal opening and cause pain, itching, and discomfort, though are not known to bleed unless they become thrombosed, meaning a blood clot can form inside of them. 

Blood clots can burst and result in bleeding, but this is rare. 

Are Bleeding Hemorrhoids Dangerous?

Hemorrhoids themselves are not considered dangerous, but rectal bleeding could warrant further examinations, performed by your doctor. 

On occasion, rectal bleeding is misconstrued as a simple case of hemorrhoids, likely internal, but the assumption itself is dangerous because it could be an indication of another disease. 

Colon cancer also produces rectal bleeding, and so consulting with your doctor if you experience this symptom is never a bad plan.

Do Hemorrhoids Bleed Bright Red Blood?

Yes, hemorrhoids are known to bleed bright red blood.  One type of hemorrhoids called internal hemorrhoids is the leading cause of bleeding. 

The cluster of veins and blood vessels inside of your lower rectum become inflamed, and occasionally, a hard stool will scrape the surface of the lining in this area. 

This tear of the tissue is the primary cause of the bright red blood you see after a bowel movement.

The bright red blood covers the stool either entirely or partially, drips from the rectum after a bowel movement, or you will see blood on the toilet paper while wiping. 

This bleeding is often painless and the only indication that you have internal hemorrhoids.

Can Aspirin Cause Hemorrhoids to Bleed?

Drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen can be safe for some hemorrhoid sufferers to take to lessen the severity of inflammation and discomfort. However, in some cases, these medications can cause hemorrhoids to bleed more. 

Be careful as to which drug you take to relieve your hemorrhoids, even with over the counter pain relievers. 

Being cautious is especially a good idea if you are already taking medication such as blood thinners or other prescription medicines to treat a separate disorder or condition.

If you are concerned about whether taking aspirin is right for you and are looking for a method to alleviate the pain and discomfort of hemorrhoids, seek advice from a medical professional. 

Your doctor will know which medication is most appropriate for your body.

Can Hemorrhoids Bleed When Passing Gas? 

Hemorrhoids are not known to cause bleeding when passing gas. 

Many experts believe that the rectal bleeding that arises from having internal hemorrhoids is from a hard stool passing through the bowels. 

The hard stool scrapes the lining that is located inside the rectum, and this is where the bleeding originates. 

However, hemorrhoids can make passing gas uncomfortable, as well as when you are sitting and standing in certain positions.

If you are experiencing bleeding when passing gas, let your doctor know right away. 

Your doctor may want to perform additional examinations if this is a persisting issue for you.

Is Bleeding Normal With Hemorrhoids?

First, any sort of bleeding that occurs from the rectum, while statistically likely from hemorrhoids, should be reported to a doctor. 

However, because hemorrhoids are incredibly common among adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic constipation problems, rectal bleeding is found to be a typical symptom of this anorectal condition. 

Ultimately, yes, bleeding is normal, but a medical professional should still check you out—just in case. 

Can a Bleeding Hemorrhoid Get Infected?

Yes, bleeding hemorrhoids can become infected, but this is a rare occurrence. Sometimes, when an external hemorrhoid becomes thrombosed and forms a blood clot beneath the skin, this blood clot can burst. 

There is a low chance that an open blood clot can accumulate an infection. 

It is recommended that if a blood clot is inhibiting your comfort and lifestyle, you should seek medical intervention from your doctor. 

Your physician will be able to lance and drain a blood clot while helping subside the risk of infection.

In some cases after hemorrhoid surgeries, an infection can occur. 

It is essential to monitor your side effects post-surgery to curb the risk of infection.

Severe bleeding or pain should be reported to your doctor post operation. 

Can Running Cause a Hemorrhoid to Bleed?

If you have external hemorrhoids, running will most likely not cause them to bleed.

If your hemorrhoids have formed a blood clot and burst during a run, then will you see bleeding. 

If you have internal hemorrhoids, running will likely help promote a healthier bowel movement.

However, you might see some anal bleeding after elimination.  

Exercise, while beneficial in the prevention of hemorrhoids, tends to worsen some symptoms. 

If you correctly lubricate your hemorrhoids with creams or ointments such as Preparation H or other over the counter medications designed to relieve symptoms of hemorrhoids, then you can lessen the amount of chaffing during a run. 

Does Spicy Food Cause Hemorrhoids to Bleed?

Spicy foods are known to cause inflammation in hemorrhoids, and this can result in bleeding. 

Bleeding can occur if you have internal hemorrhoids and typically happens after a bowel movement. 

The spice and heat in the foods you consume can disrupt your blood vessels, causing them to swell and become irritated. 

If you have hemorrhoids, your physician will probably tell you to stay away from spicy foods. 

For severe bouts of a hemorrhoid flare-up, milder foods that are full of fiber are going to be the most beneficial. 

Your diet dictates your hemorrhoids, and the more fiber you include in it, the less likely you will experience hemorrhoid flare-ups.

Can Bleeding Hemorrhoids Cause Anemia?

Complications from hemorrhoids are rare, such as anemia. 

Anemia is a deficiency of red blood cells, and this condition can bring on symptoms of feeling tired, weak, shortness of breath, and sometimes, loss of consciousness.

In most cases, your case of hemorrhoids must be severe enough to induce chronic bleeding. 

Of course, if you are experiencing chronic loss of blood from hemorrhoids, tell your doctor or call emergency services immediately. 

This is a rare side effect derived from hemorrhoid complications, and it could indicate a more serious gastrointestinal disease. 

Do not try to treat severe hemorrhoids with chronic bleeding at home yourself or you could be putting yourself at risk for additional complications.

Can I Swim with Bleeding Hemorrhoids?

Swimming is an excellent exercise for those suffering from hemorrhoids. 

You can swim with both external and internal hemorrhoids.  Swimming is a helpful activity because there are less chaffing and pressure on the existing hemorrhoids, lessening the symptoms of pain, discomfort, and itching.

Bleeding hemorrhoids mostly refers to the symptom caused by internal hemorrhoids. 

Swimming won't result in hemorrhoid bleeding, but if you do suffer from internal hemorrhoids, you may see blood after a bowel movement. 

Exercise is encouraged to help subside hemorrhoid flare-ups, but it is essential to choose an activity that does not worsen your symptoms.

Can Bleeding Hemorrhoids Cause Cancer? 

Hemorrhoids are a separate condition not known to cause cancer.  Often, blood on your toilet paper is the only sign of the existence of internal hemorrhoids. It is usually painless, occurring after a bowel movement or straining on the toilet. 

If you have bleeding hemorrhoids, even if it is painless, let your doctor know.  Hemorrhoids are the most common cause of rectal bleeding, and this chronic condition is experienced by half of the adult population over the age of 50. 

When it comes to gastrointestinal issues, you will want to consult your doctor just in case it isn't a separate condition.

How Do You Treat a Bleeding Hemorrhoid?

A bleeding hemorrhoid can refer to a thrombosed external hemorrhoid, where a blood clot has formed or possibly burst, or the common side effect of an internal hemorrhoid, which is painless rectal bleeding. 

Both can be treated by eating high fiber foods, taking a fiber supplement, and maintaining healthy bathroom habits, like not sitting on the toilet for too long.

Bleeding Hemorrhoids Home Remedies

There are many home remedies that can reduce the irritation and inflammation associated with hemorrhoids that cause them to bleed.

The best way to treat bleeding associated with hemorrhoids is to ease their symptoms.

Sitting in a tub of warm water for 10-15 minutes can help reduce the swelling and irritation caused by hemorrhoids (10).

Some patients add Epsom salt or apple cider vinegar to their baths to help further reduce the hemorrhoids and their bleeding.

Better Bath Better Body Hemorrhoid Soak is a good product to use for hemorrhoids. Just add a little of the product to a lukewarm bath.

Witch hazel is an astringent that can cause hemorrhoid tissue to shrink.

The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of witch hazel have been effective in providing relief for many symptoms of hemorrhoids, which is why using witch hazel for hemorrhoids is a great idea.

Two products that use witch hazel, preparation h and tucks, cab be used.

Coconut oil for hemorrhoids can be used as it is a natural moisturizer that can help with the pain and itching that often causes hemorrhoids to become irritated and bleed.

Aloe vera plant has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body that can help provide relief from itching, burning, and swelling.

Ice packs, as mentioned earlier, can help relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and shrink the veins that cause bleeding hemorrhoids.

When these simple, natural remedies are not enough, over-the-counter and prescription medications may be used to treat hemorrhoids and reduce the symptoms of bleeding.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can help provide temporary relief as well. The best way to treat bleeding hemorrhoids with home remedies is to find ways to change your lifestyle. This can include:

• Drinking plenty of water
• Eating a diet rich in fiber (11)
• Wearing loose-fitting, breathable, cotton underwear and pants
• Correcting bathroom habits that can lead to severely irritated hemorrhoids-this can include avoiding constipation, sitting on the toilet for prolonged periods of time, and properly cleaning yourself after a bowel movement
• Avoiding perfumed toilet paper and washing yourself after bowel movements, instead of wiping, can also help.

While bleeding hemorrhoids can be irritating, they are often not a cause for a serious concern.

Talk to your physician to be sure bleeding hemorrhoids are not a sign of a more serious problem.

If it’s determined the bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids, try the different treatment methods to reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids and stop the bleeding.

How Do You Get a Hemorrhoid to Stop Bleeding? 

Unfortunately, there's not much you can do to stop internal hemorrhoids from bleeding, you have to let the flare-up run its course. 

However, rectal bleeding should subside fairly quickly, and you shouldn't experience a lot of blood, either.  Often, the bleeding will occur after a bowel movement or if you are straining on the toilet. 

Are Bleeding Hemorrhoids Common?

Usually, when people have bleeding hemorrhoids, they are referring to internal hemorrhoids and the painless rectal bleeding often associated with it. 

Internal hemorrhoids are common, so much so that nearly half of adults around the age of fifty develop either type of hemorrhoid. 

Pregnant women also commonly experience bleeding hemorrhoids. 

Can Hemorrhoids Turn Into Cancer?

No, hemorrhoids cannot turn into cancer.  Cancer and hemorrhoids are unrelated, but colorectal cancer can share similar symptoms to those of hemorrhoids. 

If you experience hemorrhoids often, it doesn’t mean anything other than your diet may lack fiber, you are straining on the toilet too often, or you are putting excessive pressure on your rectal veins.

What Do You Do if a Hemorrhoid is Bleeding?

If you experience any rectal bleeding, then it is time to inform your doctor.  While there is a good chance that it is from your hemorrhoids, it can also be a sign of something else in your body. 

If your doctor determines that the bleeding is in fact from hemorrhoids, then it will likely subside within days, but you may need to address your diet and toilet habits in the meantime.

Do Bleeding Hemorrhoids Hurt?

No, due to the lack of pain-sensing nerves in the lowest part of the rectum, fortunately, bleeding hemorrhoids do not hurt. 

Bleeding hemorrhoids are internal hemorrhoids that have become swollen and inflamed, and sometimes a hard stool can scrape these cushions, causing bright red blood to be produced.  External hemorrhoids, however, when they become thrombosed and burst can be painful.

Remember to always see your doctor for medical advice after any rectal bleeding experience. This is to confirm that the condition is indeed caused by hemorrhoids and nothing else. 

Can Hemorrhoids Have Any Complications?

Yes, hemorrhoids can lead to complications in rare cases. One good example is the disruption of blood supply to a prolapsed hemorrhoid. When this happens, the pain is usually extreme. If you think it's worth it, you may undergo a surgery due to the condition.