Haemorrhoids and rectal bleeding

Rectal bleeding is a symptom that can cause significant anxiety, but it’s important to remember that isn’t always a sign of something serious, such as cancer. One of the most common causes is haemorrhoids; swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, itching and occasional bleeding. While some people may delay seeking help due to embarrassment or fear of painful treatment, modern care for haemorrhoids is often far more comfortable and straightforward than expected.

What are haemorrhoids and why do they cause bleeding?

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins, that present in or around the anus as benign lumps inside the rectum (internal haemorrhoids) or under the skin (external haemorrhoids). They may be linked to straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation, pregnancy or prolonged sitting.

Bleeding usually appears as bright red blood on toilet paper, in the bowl or coating the stool. Other symptoms can include:

Itching or irritation around the anus
Swelling or a lump near the anus
Pain, especially if a blood clot forms in an external haemorrhoid

Why it’s important to see a doctor

Although haemorrhoids are common and not dangerous, any rectal bleeding should be assessed to rule out other conditions such as anal fissures, polyps or bowel cancer. A specialist can usually make a diagnosis through a straightforward examination, and in some cases may recommend further tests, such as a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy, to be certain.

Many people under-report symptoms because they worry about discomfort during examination or treatment. However, most assessments are quick, use gentle techniques and cause minimal discomfort.

How are haemorrhoids treated?

In mild cases, haemorrhoids can improve with simple measures:

Increasing dietary fibre and fluid intake
Avoiding prolonged straining during bowel movements
Using over-the-counter creams or suppositories to reduce swelling and itching

If symptoms persist, non-surgical treatments are available and are usually quick and well-tolerated. These include:

Rubber band ligation – placing a small band at the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink
Infrared coagulation – using heat to seal the blood vessels
Injection sclerotherapy – injecting a solution to shrink the haemorrhoid

For large or resistant haemorrhoids, surgical removal (haemorrhoidectomy) or newer minimally invasive procedures, such as stapled haemorrhoidopexy or haemorrhoidal artery ligation, may be recommended. These techniques are designed to reduce pain and speed up recovery compared with traditional surgery.

What is recovery like?

Recovery depends on the treatment used. Many outpatient procedures require little or no downtime, allowing patients to return to normal activities the same or next day. Even after surgery, pain relief and modern techniques mean that recovery is often far less uncomfortable than people fear.

When to seek help

Anyone with rectal bleeding should see a doctor promptly for assessment. In most cases, the cause is harmless and treatment is straightforward, helping to relieve symptoms and improve quality of life without the discomfort many people expect.