Hemorrhoids

Frequently Asked Questions

• What are hemorrhoids?

  Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus — much like varicose veins, but located in that area. They come in two types: internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and are usually painless, while external hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anal opening and can be itchy and quite painful. Also called “piles,” they are among the most common digestive complaints in Canada, particularly affecting people between the ages of 45 and 65.

• What causes hemorrhoids?

  Hemorrhoids develop when repeated pressure is placed on the veins of the lower rectum and anus, causing them to swell. Common triggers include straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, sitting on the toilet for extended periods — including while scrolling your phone — lifting heavy objects, pregnancy, and carrying excess body weight. Liver disease and certain dietary patterns can also increase the pressure on rectal veins over time.

• How do you get rid of hemorrhoids?

  Most mild hemorrhoids improve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks with consistent home care: increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake, avoiding prolonged sitting, and applying over-the-counter creams or witch hazel pads to ease discomfort. If your symptoms persist beyond a week or two, are getting worse, or involve recurrent bleeding, it’s a good idea to seek professional guidance. Book Consultation with a Rexall Pharmacist to get personalized advice and, if needed, a prescription treatment.

• What do hemorrhoids look like?

  External hemorrhoids appear as soft, bluish or skin-coloured lumps around the edge of the anus, and may become darker or more swollen if a blood clot forms inside (a thrombosed hemorrhoid). Internal hemorrhoids are not visible from the outside, but may prolapse — protruding from the anal opening during or after a bowel movement — appearing as moist, pink tissue. Bright red blood on toilet paper or on the surface of the stool is another common sign.

• How long do hemorrhoids last?

  Small hemorrhoids often clear up on their own within a few days, especially with supportive care such as a high-fibre diet, adequate hydration, and sitz baths. Larger or thrombosed hemorrhoids can take two to four weeks to resolve and may be significantly more painful in the interim. Hemorrhoids that recur frequently or do not improve with home treatment may require assessment by a pharmacist or physician.

• What do hemorrhoids feel like?

  External hemorrhoids can cause a persistent itch, burning sensation, or sharp pain around the anus, particularly during or after a bowel movement. Internal hemorrhoids are usually painless, but you may notice bright red blood in the toilet or on toilet paper, or a feeling of fullness or incomplete evacuation. If an internal hemorrhoid prolapses or a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid, the pain can become intense and sudden.

• How can I shrink hemorrhoids fast?

  To reduce swelling quickly, try sitting in a warm sitz bath for 10–15 minutes several times a day, applying a cold compress briefly to the area, and using an over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel. Staying well hydrated and eating plenty of fibre helps keep stools soft so there is less straining, which gives inflamed tissue a chance to settle. Avoid prolonged sitting — including on the toilet — and do not strain during bowel movements.

• Can hemorrhoids burst?

  Yes — thrombosed external hemorrhoids (those containing a blood clot) can rupture, which typically causes a sudden release of blood and, for many people, immediate relief from the intense pressure and pain. While the bleeding is usually self-limiting and the area will heal on its own, a burst hemorrhoid carries a small risk of infection. Keep the area clean and dry, and see a pharmacist or doctor if bleeding is heavy, prolonged, or accompanied by signs of infection such as fever or increasing warmth and redness.

• Are hemorrhoids dangerous?

  For most people, hemorrhoids are uncomfortable but not dangerous, and they respond well to conservative treatment. However, persistent or heavy rectal bleeding can occasionally lead to iron-deficiency anemia, and rectal bleeding is sometimes a sign of a more serious condition such as colorectal cancer — so it should not be dismissed without assessment. See a doctor promptly if bleeding is dark or mixed through the stool, is accompanied by a change in bowel habits, or does not improve within a week or two.

• Can a Rexall Pharmacist help with hemorrhoids?

  Yes — in most Canadian provinces, a Rexall Pharmacist is authorized to assess hemorrhoid symptoms, recommend appropriate over-the-counter products, and prescribe certain medications to relieve pain, itching, and swelling. They can also advise on lifestyle changes to prevent recurrence and refer you to a physician if your symptoms require further investigation. Book Consultation at your nearest Rexall to get expert care without the wait.