Hemorrhoids - The Differences Between External Hemorrhoid And Internal Hemorrhoid

There are a number of differences found between external hemorrhoid and internal hemorrhoid. It is important you understand these differences in case you begin to develop symptoms. The sooner you begin to treat the problem, the sooner you will be able to cure it.

First, it is worth understanding the overall anal canal. The anal canal contains two different kinds of nerves. The first kind is the visceral nerves and the second is the somatic nerve. The visceral nerve is located above the dentate line and only feels pressure like the nerves in the intestines. The somatic nerve, which is located below the dentate line, can sense pain like the skin nerves can.

What all this has to do with external hemorrhoid and internal hemorrhoid is location and pain. Internal hemorrhoids are located above the dentate line and cannot feel pain whatsoever. As it enlarges, the anal cushion of the internal hemorrhoid protrudes into the anal canal. As it continues to protrude, it will eventually leave the anus causing bleeding and pain.

The protruding hemorrhoid will typically go back into the rectum or it can be pushed back in with fingers. Internal hemorrhoids vary in its degree of severity greatly. A first-degree hemorrhoid will cause bleeding, but there is no prolapsing. A second-degree hemorrhoid prolapses and retracts on its own desire. There may or may not be bleeding with a second-degree hemorrhoid.

As it gets more severe, a third-degree hemorrhoid prolapses but can be pushed back in with a finger. Finally, a fourth-degree hemorrhoid prolapses and cannot be pushed back in, and it can potentially cause blood clotting.

There are many different symptoms between external hemorrhoid and internal hemorrhoid. You may experience a bulge in the anus with external hemorrhoids. However, this type of hemorrhoid rarely displays the symptoms.

The reason for this is because an external hemorrhoid is located low along the canal. This causes little to no effect whatsoever during the bowel movement. What you have to be cautious about is blood clotting inside the cushions. This can result in an anal lump, which will be extremely painful. The protruding skin makes anal cleaning very difficult and can cause irritation.

There are a number of differences you want to become familiar with in regards to an external hemorrhoid and internal hemorrhoid. Take the information in this article into consideration if you feel you may have developed some symptoms of a hemorrhoid. The sooner you begin treatment, the sooner you can rid yourself of the pain. Learn more about hemorrhoids here!

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