Painful Bowel Movements: Is It Hemorrhoids?

Experiencing severe pain during bowel movements?

Hello, doctor.
I have irregular bowel habits, sometimes experiencing constipation and other times diarrhea.
Occasionally, I notice a small amount of blood when I have a bowel movement, but it usually resolves itself.
Recently, after being constipated, I started drinking banana milk, which has made my stools softer, but I still have difficulty cleaning myself properly.
I have bowel movements every two to three days, and they are very painful.
Initially, there was a bit of blood, but in subsequent bowel movements, there was no bleeding.
I noticed a soft, light purple lump near the opening of my anus, and it hurts not only when I strain but also whenever I feel the urge to go.
Could this possibly be hemorrhoids? Do I need to see a doctor? Could vigorous exercise also contribute to hemorrhoids? I've heard that increasing physical activity can help; what types of exercises are suitable or unsuitable? Each time I need to have a bowel movement, it feels very painful.
Please help me with some advice.
Thank you, doctor.

A-er, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/06/08

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

Based on your description, it seems more like a typical symptom of an anal fissure, which is characterized by pain during bowel movements accompanied by slight bleeding.
The soft lump may be caused by mild hemorrhoids.
The common causes are constipation or diarrhea.
The fundamental treatment is to improve bowel habits, along with warm sitz baths.
You can also purchase hemorrhoid suppositories at the pharmacy.
As for exercise, activities that increase abdominal pressure, such as weight training, should be avoided.
If symptoms persist without improvement, it is advisable to consult a physician for evaluation.

Reply Date: 2018/06/08

More Info

Based on your description, it sounds like you may be experiencing symptoms consistent with hemorrhoids, particularly given the presence of pain during bowel movements, the occasional bleeding, and the soft, purple lumps near the anal area. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements.

Understanding Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can be classified into two types: internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids are located inside the rectum and typically do not cause pain unless they prolapse (extend outside the anus). External hemorrhoids, on the other hand, are located under the skin around the anus and can be painful, especially when thrombosed (when a blood clot forms inside them). The soft, purple lumps you mentioned could be indicative of external hemorrhoids.

Causes and Risk Factors
Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:
1. Straining During Bowel Movements: This is often due to constipation or hard stools, which can lead to increased pressure in the rectal area.

2. Chronic Diarrhea: Frequent bowel movements can also irritate the anal region.

3. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity can contribute to poor bowel habits.

4. Obesity: Excess weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic veins.

5. Pregnancy: The increased pressure from the growing uterus can lead to hemorrhoids.

6. Heavy Lifting: Straining from lifting heavy objects can also increase the risk.

Symptoms to Watch For
- Pain or Discomfort: Especially during bowel movements.

- Bleeding: Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

- Swelling: Soft lumps around the anus.

- Itching or Irritation: In the anal area.

When to See a Doctor
While many cases of hemorrhoids can be managed at home, it is advisable to see a healthcare provider if:
- You experience significant pain or discomfort.

- There is persistent bleeding.

- You notice changes in your bowel habits.

- You have any concerns about the lumps or swelling.

Management and Treatment
1. Dietary Changes: Increasing fiber intake can help soften stools and reduce straining. Foods rich in fiber include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. Staying well-hydrated is also crucial.

2. Over-the-Counter Treatments: Creams and ointments designed for hemorrhoids can provide relief from itching and pain.

3. Warm Baths: Soaking in warm water for 10-15 minutes can help alleviate discomfort.

4. Avoid Straining: Try not to strain during bowel movements. If you feel the urge to go, respond promptly.

5. Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve bowel function and reduce the risk of constipation. Activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can be beneficial. However, avoid heavy lifting or high-impact exercises that may exacerbate symptoms.

6. Medical Procedures: If conservative measures fail, your doctor may recommend procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal of hemorrhoids.

Conclusion
Given your symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. They can perform a physical examination and possibly recommend further tests to rule out other conditions. Early intervention can help prevent complications and improve your quality of life. Remember, while hemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and distressing, they are a common condition, and effective treatments are available.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Painful Bowel Movements and Rectal Bleeding: Is It Hemorrhoids?

I have had irregular bowel movements for a long time, and recently I've noticed bright red blood when wiping after a bowel movement. The stool has been harder, and I experience significant pain during defecation. One day I had excessive flatulence, but it resolved the next d...

Dr. Huang Zhihui reply Surgery
Based on your age and description, it is likely that the bleeding is caused by hemorrhoids; however, other diagnoses such as anal fissures, tumors, or fistulas cannot be ruled out. Therefore, if you have any concerns, it is best to visit an outpatient clinic for an examination.

Understanding Painful Bowel Movements: Is It Hemorrhoids?

It seems that this condition has been present for a long time, but I just didn't pay attention to it before! Today, while having a bowel movement, I experienced significant pain in my rectum from straining. After using the restroom, I usually rinse with a handheld showerhead...

Dr. Hou Yongji reply Surgery
Based on your description, it may be a chronic anal fissure. Please seek treatment from a nearby colorectal surgeon as soon as possible. Here is a list of colorectal surgeons: D:\2F\Taiwan Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons.htm Dr. Hou Yong-ji.

Understanding Rectal Pain: Is It Hemorrhoids and Should You Treat It?

Doctor, sometimes I feel the urge to have a bowel movement, and occasionally I experience sharp pain in my anus. Could this be hemorrhoids? Is it serious, and should I seek treatment?

Dr. Lai Jihong reply Surgery
Occasional sharp pain in the anus during bowel movements may be related to hemorrhoids. It is advisable to consult a proctologist or a surgeon for an anoscopy examination to confirm the presence of hemorrhoids or other anal conditions. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Painful Bowel Movements: Causes and Solutions

Hello doctor, I feel pain in my buttocks when I urinate, as if the urine is hitting a wound. I also experience pain in my buttocks when I have a bowel movement, and there is blood when I wipe. This has been happening for a while; sometimes it feels better, but it has started agai...

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery
Blood in the stool and pain during bowel movements can be attributed to a range of diagnoses, from common hemorrhoids to more serious gastrointestinal diseases. Based on your description, it is more likely that the bleeding and inflammation are caused by hemorrhoids (internal hem...