Thrombosed Hemorrhoids 101: Signs, Treatment, and Prevention

Hemorrhoids are a lot like varicose veins. Instead of forming in your legs, though, these swollen veins pop up in or around your rectum.

Typically, hemorrhoids don’t cause any major problems. They might be uncomfortable, but they’re also very treatable.

Sometimes, though, the hemorrhoid itself develops an issue. If you get a blood clot in the hemorrhoid, doctors call it a thrombosed hemorrhoid. These tend to cause more pain and bleeding than unclotted hemorrhoids.

Betsy Clemens, MD, and our team specialize in helping people with thrombosed hemorrhoids. Come see us at Midwest Hemorrhoid Treatment Center in Town and Country, Missouri, if you think this issue might be affecting you.

The symptoms of thrombosed hemorrhoids

A thrombosed hemorrhoid usually looks like a lump on or around your anus. It might be hard, purplish, and tender to the touch. Sometimes, though, the hemorrhoid develops inside your rectum, meaning you won’t be able to see it.

Because of the blood clot inside the swollen vein, thrombosed hemorrhoids can cause symptoms like:

Anal itching and irritation
Blood when you pass stool
Localized swelling
Pain when you walk or sit
Pain during bowel movements

If any of that sounds familiar, don’t hesitate to come see Dr. Clemens.

Treating hemorrhoids with blood clots

At our office, Dr. Clemens examines the area to determine if you have a hemorrhoid and if it contains a thrombus (blood clot). She also talks with you about your symptoms and how long you’ve been noticing them.

If the issue cropped up recently (in the last 72 hours), a simple procedure called an external thrombectomy allows her to remove the clotted blood. This should give you immediate pain relief.

If you’ve had the problem for a while, she might recommend home care such as sitz baths, suppositories, hemorrhoid cream, or witch hazel. Eating lots of fiber and temporarily using a stool softener can also help. If you’re experiencing pain when you wipe, using wet wipes reduces friction and makes life more comfortable.

Most thrombosed hemorrhoids go away on their own within a few weeks. Following Dr. Clemens's care recommendations can help the process go more quickly with less pain.

Preventing thrombosed hemorrhoids

A few lifestyle changes can help you lower your risk of encountering this uncomfortable situation again. To prevent thrombosed hemorrhoids, you can:

Avoid sitting on the toilet for longer than necessary
Avoid straining to have a bowel movement
Eat a diet rich in fiber
Exercise regularly
Stay sufficiently hydrated

Dr. Clemens can help you treat a thrombosed hemorrhoid and prevent another one in the future. To get the care you need, call our office or use our online booking feature today.