Hemorrhoids are extremely common, yet most people feel embarrassed to talk about them. Because of that, many people search online asking what does a hemorrhoid look like before visiting a doctor. Understanding the real appearance of hemorrhoids can help you identify symptoms early and prevent serious discomfort.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in or around the anus and rectum. They may be internal or external, small or large, painless or extremely painful. Their appearance changes based on the type and severity.
This detailed guide explains how hemorrhoids look, how they feel, and how to recognize warning signs.
What Does a Hemorrhoid Look Like
A hemorrhoid looks like a swollen vein or lump around or inside the anus. It may appear as a soft bump, a firm mass, or a bluish purple swelling depending on the type.
Common visual characteristics include
• Flesh colored or pink lumps
• Purple or blue swollen bumps
• Small grape sized or marble sized masses
• Moist bulges near the anal opening
• Inflamed or irritated skin around the anus
Some hemorrhoids are invisible because they are located inside the rectum and cannot be seen without medical equipment.
Types of Hemorrhoids and Their Appearance
Internal Hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum. You usually cannot see them.
How they look internally
• Swollen veins lining the rectal wall
• Smooth soft tissue growths
• Often painless
• May bleed during bowel movements
If an internal hemorrhoid prolapses, it can come out of the anus and look like a pink moist lump.
External Hemorrhoids
External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus.
What they look like
• Hard or soft lumps near the anal opening
• Purple or bluish in color
• May feel itchy, tender, or painful
• Can bleed or swell suddenly
These are the most commonly noticed hemorrhoids because they are visible and uncomfortable.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
Thrombosed hemorrhoids occur when a blood clot forms inside an external hemorrhoid.
Appearance
• Dark purple or blue lump
• Firm and extremely painful
• May look shiny or tight
• Often accompanied by severe swelling
These require medical attention if pain becomes intense.
What Color Are Hemorrhoids
The color of a hemorrhoid can help determine the type
• Flesh colored or pink indicates internal hemorrhoids
• Purple or blue suggests external hemorrhoids
• Dark blue or black usually indicates thrombosis or blood clot formation
Any unusual black or bleeding mass should be evaluated by a doctor immediately.
What Size Can Hemorrhoids Be
Hemorrhoids vary in size
• Small like a pea
• Medium like a grape
• Large like a marble or bigger
Large hemorrhoids can make sitting painful and cause a constant feeling of fullness.
Symptoms That Help Identify Hemorrhoids
Besides appearance, common symptoms include
• Bright red blood on toilet paper
• Itching or burning sensation
• Pain during bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete evacuation
• Swelling or irritation around anus
These signs combined with visual changes confirm hemorrhoids.
What Hemorrhoids Do Not Look Like
Many people confuse hemorrhoids with other conditions
• Anal fissures look like small cuts not lumps
• Warts are rough textured
• Rectal prolapse looks like a long tube shaped mass
• Tumors are hard irregular and grow progressively
If unsure, never self diagnose. Always consult a doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Seek medical help if
• Bleeding continues for more than a week
• Severe pain occurs
• Lumps grow rapidly
• Black stool appears
• Fever or discharge is present
These may indicate more serious conditions.
FAQs
What does a hemorrhoid look like on the outside
It looks like a swollen lump near the anus that may be purple blue or flesh colored.
What does an internal hemorrhoid look like
It is not visible but may appear as a pink lump if it prolapses outside the anus.
Are hemorrhoids hard or soft
They can be either depending on swelling and clot formation.
Can hemorrhoids be mistaken for cancer
Yes in rare cases. Any persistent bleeding or hard growth must be examined by a doctor.
Do hemorrhoids go away on their own
Mild hemorrhoids may shrink with lifestyle changes but chronic ones need treatment.
Conclusion
Now you understand what does a hemorrhoid look like and how its appearance changes based on type and severity. Recognizing early signs such as swelling, color change, pain, or bleeding can prevent serious complications. If symptoms persist or worsen, always consult a medical professional.
Alexander Wren is a talented writer at lingorae.com, known for his clever wit and engaging style.
A true master of puns, he crafts playful wordplay that entertains and inspires readers.
