Internal vs. External Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Treatment Options in Phoenix

If you’re dealing with pain, itching, or rectal bleeding, you may be wondering whether you have internal or external hemorrhoids — and more importantly, how to treat them. At Advanced Hemorrhoid Centers, we specialize in fast, non-surgical hemorrhoid relief for patients across Phoenix, Scottsdale, and surrounding Valley cities.

Understanding the differences between internal and external hemorrhoids can help you find the right treatment and get relief quickly.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in or around the anus and rectum. They’re very common — especially with straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting — and fall into two main types:

  • Internal hemorrhoids – Located inside the rectum, usually not visible
  • External hemorrhoids – Located under the skin around the anus, often visible or felt

Each type causes different symptoms and requires specific treatment approaches.

Symptoms of Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids often go unnoticed until they begin to cause symptoms. Common signs include:

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl
  • A feeling of fullness or pressure
  • Discomfort during bowel movements
  • Mucus discharge
  • Hemorrhoid prolapse (a bulge that protrudes during straining)

Internal hemorrhoids usually aren’t painful unless they prolapse or become irritated.

Symptoms of External Hemorrhoids

External hemorrhoids occur near the anal opening and can cause more noticeable discomfort, including:

  • Pain or burning around the anus
  • Swelling or a lump near the anal opening
  • Itching or irritation
  • Bleeding during wiping
  • A hard, painful lump (possibly a thrombosed hemorrhoid, caused by a blood clot)

These symptoms can flare suddenly and may interfere with daily life.

Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids in Phoenix

At Advanced Hemorrhoid Centers, we offer personalized, non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment tailored to the type and severity of your symptoms.

Internal Hemorrhoid Treatment

  • Rubber Band Ligation (Hemorrhoid Banding) – A quick, in-office procedure where a small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood flow. The hemorrhoid shrinks and falls off naturally within days.
  • Topical relief and lifestyle changes – For mild internal hemorrhoids, we may recommend anti-inflammatory creams, stool softeners, and diet adjustments.

External Hemorrhoid Treatment

  • Topical therapy – We offer customized office-based care to reduce swelling, pain, and irritation.
  • Treatment for Thrombosed Hemorrhoids – If a blood clot forms, we can relieve the pressure and promote healing using gentle, office-based techniques.
  • Skin tag removal (if needed) – Leftover tissue from previous external hemorrhoids can be addressed if they cause hygiene issues or irritation.

We also provide guidance to prevent recurrence, including fiber intake, hydration, and healthy bowel habits.

When to See a Hemorrhoid Specialist in Phoenix

You should schedule an evaluation if you experience:

  • Rectal bleeding, pain, or discomfort that persists
  • A lump or swelling near the anus
  • Prolapsed hemorrhoids or mucus discharge
  • Ongoing anal itching or irritation

Our team offers private, compassionate care with same-day availability across Phoenix, Scottsdale, Mesa, Chandler, Gilbert, Tempe, Glendale, Paradise Valley, Fountain Hills, and Cave Creek.

Get Expert Hemorrhoid Relief in Phoenix

Whether you’re dealing with internal or external hemorrhoids, Advanced Hemorrhoid Centers is here to help with fast, effective, in-office care — no surgery, no hassle, and no judgment. We make it easy to get the relief you need and back to living comfortably.

✨ Call today at (480) 359‑2290 to schedule your consultation!

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