Hemorrhoids

Normal hemorrhoidal cushions help seal the anal canal. Hemorrhoidal disease develops when those cushions enlarge, descend, bleed, or form a clot. Anatomy predicts the symptom pattern: internal disease is usually associated with painless bright-red bleeding or prolapse, while a thrombosed external hemorrhoid produces a sudden, tender lump at the anal verge. The practical nursing task is broader than identifying a familiar symptom. Rectal bleeding must be assessed in context so that a fissure, abscess, inflammatory disease, or colorectal malignancy is not missed. Treatment usually starts by making stools easier to pass and eliminating straining; prolapse grade, persistent symptoms, thrombosis, and post-procedure complications determine when clinician-directed intervention is needed.