Hemorrhoids are more common than many people realize, yet they often cause confusion and worry because people don’t know what they look like or how serious they are. If you’ve noticed discomfort, swelling, or changes around the anal area, understanding the appearance of hemorrhoids can help you decide what steps to take next.

This guide explains what hemorrhoids look like, how they feel, and how different types can appear.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins located in or around the lower rectum and anus. They develop when extra pressure is placed on these veins, often due to straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or chronic constipation.

They are not usually dangerous, but they can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful.

What Do Hemorrhoids Look Like on the Outside?

External hemorrhoids form under the skin around the anus and are usually the easiest to notice.

They may look like:

• Small, soft lumps near the anal opening
• Slightly swollen or raised areas
• Skin-colored, bluish, or purplish bumps
• Tender or itchy areas around the anus

In some cases, an external hemorrhoid may become firm and painful if a blood clot forms inside it. This is known as a thrombosed hemorrhoid.

What Do Internal Hemorrhoids Look Like?

Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum, so they are usually not visible from the outside.

Most people:

• Cannot see them
• Do not feel pain initially

However, signs may include:

• Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
• A feeling of incomplete bowel movement
• Mild pressure inside the rectum

Sometimes, an internal hemorrhoid can protrude outside the anus. When this happens, it may appear as a soft, moist lump that can be pushed back inside.

What Color Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids can appear in different colors depending on their type and condition.

Common colors include:

• Skin-colored or light pink
• Reddish due to irritation
• Bluish or purple if blood flow is restricted

Color alone does not indicate severity, but sudden darkening or increased pain should not be ignored.

How Big Can Hemorrhoids Be?

Hemorrhoids vary in size. Some are as small as a pea, while others can become large enough to cause noticeable discomfort when sitting or walking.

Size can increase temporarily during flare-ups and reduce once swelling goes down with proper care.

Are Hemorrhoids Always Painful?

Not always.

• Internal hemorrhoids usually cause little to no pain
• External hemorrhoids may itch, burn, or feel sore
• Pain increases if swelling, irritation, or clotting occurs

Discomfort often depends on location rather than size.

How Can You Tell the Difference Between Hemorrhoids and Other Conditions?

Hemorrhoids are often mistaken for other issues such as anal fissures or skin tags.

Hemorrhoids typically:

• Are soft or slightly firm
• May swell and shrink over time
• Are associated with bowel habits

If symptoms persist, worsen, or include severe pain or dark bleeding, medical evaluation is important.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should seek medical advice if:

• Bleeding is frequent or heavy
• Pain becomes severe
• Symptoms last more than a week
• You are unsure about the diagnosis

Early evaluation helps rule out more serious conditions and ensures proper treatment.

Can Hemorrhoids Go Away on Their Own?

Yes, mild hemorrhoids often improve with:

• Increased fiber intake
• Drinking enough water
• Avoiding straining
• Reducing prolonged sitting

More severe cases may need medical treatment.

Final Thoughts: Understanding What Hemorrhoids Look Like

Knowing what hemorrhoids look like helps reduce fear and confusion. They can appear as small lumps, swollen areas, or internal swelling that causes bleeding without visible signs. Most hemorrhoids are manageable with simple lifestyle changes, especially when addressed early.

Author Bio

Im saleha a health and wellness content writer at TheFitnessCrunch with a focus on evidence-based fitness, lifestyle, and general health topics.