Passing stool is a “satisfying” activity simply because it’s a relief to release the toxins that go with feces. But seeing blood on the toilet or even in one’s rectum will negate that satisfaction for some. There is no need to panic. At first glance, the injuries which may be considered for bleeding are anal fissures and hemorrhoids, since bleeding or the presence of blood is a common sign of both conditions. Despite some common grounds, they are not entirely the same.
Anal fissures and hemorrhoids may affect generally all people. People who have either of them may experience itching and pain around the anus. Although bleeding is common sign of both conditions, wherein blood may appear on toilet paper, stool, or on the toilet through drips after defecating, the reasons for the presence of blood are different.
The bleeding caused by anal fissures is due to the tear of a tissue, while with hemorrhoids, swelling of the veins cause the bleeding. Both anal fissures and hemorrhoids may happen at the same time and may heal in a few days or even weeks, but a serious condition of either of the two may require medical attention.
People with a tear on the sensitive mucosal lining in their lower rectum due to injury or trauma and experiencing pain during bowel movements are likely to have an anal fissure. The injury or trauma causing the fissures may happen for several reasons such as constipation or passing of a large stool, repeated diarrhea, and even anal intercourse. Inflammatory bowel disease or infection sometimes may result to anal fissure. Generally, pain may be experienced during and even after defecating; there are times however when such anal fissure only causes bleeding, without pain, yet the wound does not heal.
On the other hand, hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins caused by pressure in the lower rectum which may result from obesity, pregnancy, strenuous activities such as lifting heavy objects, or force such as pushing during bowel movements. These conditions and activities weaken the cushions of tissues and cause the skin to blow up like a tiny balloon filled with blood. There are two kinds of hemorrhoids: internal and external hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids happen inside the rectum with less nerves to sense pain; thus, there is generally no hurt or pain. On the other hand, external hemorrhoids may hurt as they happen under the skin around the anus. Prolapsed hemorrhoids are likely to hurt as they budge outside the anal sphincter, but usually go back inside on their own. Sometimes, these budges are pink, but they may also look purple or blue.
Although there are differences, some people still have a hard time to decipher which condition between anal fissure and hemorrhoids is really affecting a person. Sometimes, both conditions are present at the same time. Aside from anal fissures and hemorrhoids, rectal bleeding also is a symptom of other conditions, such as Crohn’s disease, colon polyps, and even cancer. Undeniably, to have an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment, it is still best to consult a specialist on the field.
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