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Health library/Hemorrhoids

Digestive health

Hemorrhoids

Also known as: Piles

Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels in or around the lower rectum and anus. Rectal bleeding should not automatically be attributed to them without assessment.

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What you may notice

Symptoms can overlap with other conditions and vary between people.

  • Bright red rectal bleeding
  • Anal itching
  • Pain or discomfort
  • A lump near the anus

Understanding care

Clinical care may include assessment of bleeding and discussion of bowel habits or procedures when appropriate. A qualified clinician decides which investigations and options fit the individual situation.

When to seek help

Have unexplained or recurring rectal bleeding assessed rather than assuming hemorrhoids. Heavy bleeding, black stool, dizziness or fainting needs urgent care.

For severe breathing difficulty, collapse, suspected stroke, or another emergency, call local emergency services immediately. In India, call 112.

Read the medical sources

These sources support the educational article and offer more detail.

Educational reading · Updated 6 October 2026

Prepared from the linked sources. This summary has not had an independent clinician review. A qualified clinician can assess symptoms and explain which information applies to you.

A child and a caring grown-up reading a picture book together

LITTLE PEOPLE. BIG FEELINGS.

It’s okay to have
a lot of questions.

A doctor visit or an unfamiliar health word can feel scary. You can ask a trusted grown-up to help you understand, one small question at a time.

01

Say how you feel.

“I feel worried” is a good place to start.

02

Ask for simple words.

“Can you explain that in a way I understand?”

03

Bring someone you trust.

A caring adult can help you ask and listen.

For children and their grown-ups. This illustration explains a conversation, not a diagnosis. An adult should seek qualified care for a child who is unwell.

Hemorrhoids — First AID health library