How to distinguish between internal and external hemorrhoids? Detailed explanation of symptoms, classification and coping methods
Recently, health topics have continued to attract attention across the Internet, and hemorrhoids in particular have become a hot search topic. Many netizens experience anal discomfort due to factors such as prolonged sitting and irregular diet, but it is difficult to distinguish between internal and external hemorrhoids. This article will combine medical knowledge and compare structured data to help you quickly determine the type of hemorrhoids and provide scientific advice.
1. The core difference between internal hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids

| Features | Internal hemorrhoids | External hemorrhoids |
|---|---|---|
| Occurrence location | Above the dentate line (end of rectum) | Below the dentate line (around the anus) |
| pain | Usually painless unless prolapsed or impacted | Often significant pain or burning sensation |
| Hemorrhagic manifestations | Bright red blood, dripping or spurting after defecation | Less bleeding, often accompanied by secretions |
| visible to naked eye | Invisible in the early stage, prolapses outside the anus in severe cases | Tumors in the anus can be directly observed |
2. Comparison of classification and typical symptoms
According to clinical standards, internal hemorrhoids are divided into 4 levels according to severity:
| Grading | Symptoms |
|---|---|
| Ⅰ degree | Blood in the stool, no prolapse |
| Ⅱ degree | If it comes out during defecation, it can be put back on its own |
| III degree | Detachment requires manual return |
| IV degree | Unable to return after being separated for a long time |
External hemorrhoids are mainly divided into 4 types:
| Type | Features |
|---|---|
| Thrombotic external hemorrhoids | Sudden purple-black induration and severe pain |
| Varicose external hemorrhoids | Soft swelling that gets worse after squatting for a long time |
| Inflammatory external hemorrhoids | Redness, swelling, heat and pain, accompanied by discharge |
| connective tissue external hemorrhoids | Skin tag-like growths, painless |
3. Self-examination and medical advice
1.Preliminary judgment method:- Observe the color and frequency of bleeding - Check if there is any foreign body sensation or mass in the anus - Record the relationship between pain and defecation
2.Situations that require immediate medical attention:- Continuous bleeding for more than 3 days - Prolapsed hemorrhoids that cannot be retracted - Accompanied by fever or severe pain
4. Prevention and daily care
| measures | Specific methods |
|---|---|
| diet modification | Daily intake of more than 25g dietary fiber and drinking water >1.5L |
| bowel movement management | Use the toilet for less than 5 minutes and avoid straining |
| Exercise advice | 3 groups of levator exercises daily, 20 times in each group |
| local care | Warm water sitz bath (around 40℃, 10 minutes each time) |
Note: If the symptoms persist and are not relieved, it is recommended to go to an anorectal specialist for a digital anal examination or colonoscopy to rule out other digestive tract diseases.
Through the above structured comparison, I believe you have mastered the basic methods to determine the type of hemorrhoids. Recent health data shows that about 60% of hemorrhoid patients have mixed hemorrhoids (both internal and external hemorrhoids coexist), so early detection and early intervention are particularly important. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is the key prevention tool!
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