There are three commonly reported types of hemorrhoids including: External hemorrhoids: External hemorrhoids are the result of swollen veins beneath the skin outside of the anus. These can lead to extreme pain, itching, swelling, and even bleeding. Internal hemorrhoids: internal hemorrhoids affect the veins inside the rectum, which is the area that connects your colon to your anus. Internal hemorrhoids are not usually painful, however, they may cause some bleeding. Prolapsed hemorrhoids: A prolapsed hemorrhoid occurs when a hemorrhoid, whether internal or external, bulges or is stretched outside of the anus resulting in severe pain and bleeding.