Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop inside the rectum. Unlike external hemorrhoids, they're not visible from the outside and often go unnoticed until you see bright red blood during a bowel movement or feel a sense of pressure. In more advanced cases, the tissue may bulge out of the anus, a condition known as prolapse. A medical exam is the best way to confirm their presence and severity.
Internal hemorrhoids may not cause pain, but they often present with:
Certain factors and habits can increase your risk of developing internal hemorrhoids, including:
Our Houston gastroenterology team is committed to compassionate, patient-centered care for internal hemorrhoids. From accurate diagnosis and lifestyle recommendations to minimally invasive in-office treatments, we tailor every plan to your needs. Don't wait-book your appointment today and take the first step toward lasting comfort and digestive health.
We've successfully treated more than 24K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.
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Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.
The ICD-10 code for internal hemorrhoids without prolapse is K64.0.
Yes, mild internal hemorrhoids often improve or resolve with dietary changes, increased hydration, and rest.
With proper home care-such as fiber, fluids, and avoiding straining-mild symptoms usually clear up within a few days to two weeks.
They don't directly cause constipation, but discomfort or fear of pain may lead you to delay bowel movements, which can worsen constipation.
They may cause a sense of fullness or pressure in the rectum, itching or irritation, and bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
Internal hemorrhoids develop inside the rectum and are usually painless; external hemorrhoids form around the anus and can be painful, swollen, or itchy.
Yes, educational images are available online and in medical texts. Ask our Houston team for resources during your visit.
Schedule an evaluation if you experience regular bleeding, persistent discomfort, prolapse (bulging tissue), or if home treatments aren't helping.
Yes, they can recur-especially without lifestyle modifications like a high-fiber diet, proper hydration, and regular exercise.
Treatment depends on severity: dietary and lifestyle changes for mild cases, in-office procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy for larger hemorrhoids, and surgery for severe or recurrent problems.
