Hemorrhoids can be chronic and painful, but they do not usually cause complications.
Rarely, a thrombosed hemorrhoid may rupture.
This might cause more bleeding and pain, but the site of the rupture usually heals on its own.
In some cases, a skin tag might form at the location of a thrombosed hemorrhoid that has healed.4
It is rare, but significant blood loss from chronic hemorrhoids has been associated with the development of anemia.
Another rare complication is a strangulated hemorrhoid, where the blood flow to an internal hemorrhoid is cut off, which can cause extreme pain.
Strangulated hemorrhoids present a risk of infection, so it’s important to seek care in order to prevent this outcome.
Many people resort to apple cider vinegar for hemorrhoids. However, if you have a severe case, then it is recommended to see your doctor.
When to See a Doctor
Blood in the stool is never normal and should always be discussed with a physician, even when it is thought to be from a hemorrhoid.
Blood in the stool is most often the result of hemorrhoids; bright red blood is characteristic.2 Stools that have darker red blood or that appear tarry might be related to another condition, particularly one associated with an area higher up in the digestive tract.
In the event of these symptoms, it might be necessary to have testing to rule out other conditions.
Profuse rectal bleeding that’s accompanied by feelings of faintness or dizziness is a reason to seek medical attention right away.
This type of bleeding is not typical for hemorrhoids and may be an indication that another problem is occurring. Similarly, mucus or pus from the rectum, fever, chills, nausea, or a rapid heartbeat aren’t common symptoms of a hemorrhoid and are also a reason to seek medical care right away.