Other factors such as obesity and liver disease can also increase pressure and cause hemorrhoids. But, if the pressure and swelling continue, the hemorrhoidal veins may stretch out of shape, sometimes so much that they bulge through the anus to the outside of the body. The veins around the anus can also become swollen, causing external hemorrhoids. These swollen veins bleed easily, either from straining or rubbing, and irritation from draining mucus may cause itching in the anal area. If blood clots form in these hemorrhoids, the pain can be severe.
Hemorrhoids are the most common source of bleeding from the rectum and the anus.
However, if the bleeding lasts for more than a couple of days, it's important to see a doctor for an exam. Treatment for hemorrhoids depends not only on the severity of the symptoms, but also on the patient's reaction to those symptoms. Rarely do they cause severe anemia and rarely do they cause something that is hazardous to health. If the patient doesn't mind, then let them live with the hemorrhoids. Even though he's a surgeon, Smith considers surgery an option only after everything else has failed.