When something feels off “down there,” it’s easy to assume it must be hemorrhoids — they’re, after all, extremely common. But not every ache, bleed, or lump is caused by hemorrhoids. Sometimes, the culprit is an anal fissure or a colon polyp — conditions that can look and feel similar but require very different care.
At Vessol Health, we believe that understanding the difference matters — not just for comfort, but for your peace of mind and long-term health. Here’s how to tell these conditions apart and what to do if you’re unsure which one you’re dealing with.
Understanding hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins in the legs. They can be:
-
Internal hemorrhoids, which form inside the rectum and typically cause painless bleeding.
-
External hemorrhoids, which develop under the skin around the anus and may feel itchy, swollen, or form a noticeable lump.
Common symptoms include:
-
Bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements
-
Itching, irritation, or swelling around the anus
-
A dull ache or lump that feels tender when sitting
Hemorrhoids are usually the result of increased pressure — often from constipation, straining, pregnancy, or long hours of sitting. They’re uncomfortable but generally not dangerous, and most improve with simple lifestyle changes and at-home care.
What are anal fissures?
Anal fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, often caused by passing a hard stool, straining, or repeated bouts of diarrhea.
Unlike hemorrhoids, fissures usually cause sharp, cutting pain during bowel movements — often described as “passing shards of glass.” They can also lead to light bleeding, usually seen as bright red streaks on toilet paper.
Most fissures heal naturally with stool-softening, hydration, and warm sitz baths. Chronic fissures, however, may need prescription ointments or minor procedures to relax the muscle and promote healing.
What are colon polyps?
Colon polyps are growths on the inner lining of the colon or rectum. Most are benign, but some can develop into colon cancer if not detected and removed.
Unlike hemorrhoids or fissures, polyps often don’t cause symptoms — which is why regular screening is so important. When symptoms do appear, they may include:
-
Rectal bleeding, sometimes mixed with stool
-
Changes in bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea)
-
A persistent feeling that the bowel doesn’t fully empty
Polyps are most often found during a colonoscopy, which is recommended starting at age 45 (or earlier if you have a family history of colorectal cancer).
Key differences in symptoms
While these three conditions can overlap, the nature of your pain, bleeding, and bowel patterns often provides useful clues:
-
Hemorrhoids: Cause itching, swelling, dull discomfort, and bright red bleeding related to bowel movements.
-
Anal fissures: Cause sharp, cutting pain during bowel movements, followed by a lingering spasm-like ache.
-
Colon polyps: Typically cause no pain but may lead to unexplained bleeding or subtle changes in stool.
If your symptoms don’t fit neatly into one category, that’s okay — a doctor can help you determine what’s going on.
Why confusion and misdiagnosis happen
Because all three conditions can cause rectal bleeding, many people assume hemorrhoids are to blame and delay care. While hemorrhoids are the most common explanation, ignoring symptoms can lead to missed diagnoses — especially when polyps are involved.
That’s why persistent, unexplained, or recurrent bleeding should always be evaluated. Even if it turns out to be hemorrhoids, getting confirmation provides peace of mind.
When to see a doctor
You should seek medical evaluation if you experience:
-
Heavy or frequent bleeding
-
Sharp or persistent pain that doesn’t improve
-
Changes in stool consistency or frequency
-
Symptoms that continue despite at-home care
-
You’re over 45 and haven’t had a colonoscopy
Your doctor can perform a simple exam to check for hemorrhoids or fissures. If needed, they may recommend additional testing, such as a colonoscopy, to rule out or remove polyps.
Managing each condition
Each condition calls for its own care approach:
-
Hemorrhoids: Focus on fiber, hydration, gentle hygiene, and warm sitz baths. In severe cases, medical procedures may be recommended.
-
Anal fissures: Use stool softeners, warm baths, and topical ointments. Chronic fissures may need muscle-relaxing medications or minor surgery.
-
Colon polyps: Must be removed during colonoscopy, followed by regular monitoring to prevent recurrence.
Because the treatments differ, getting the right diagnosis is the key to effective relief.
The bottom line
Hemorrhoids, anal fissures, and colon polyps may share some symptoms, but they’re not the same.
-
Hemorrhoids cause itching, swelling, and dull discomfort.
-
Fissures cause sharp, tearing pain and small tears in the tissue.
-
Polyps are silent growths that need to be detected and removed during screening.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your symptoms, don’t self-diagnose. Talk to your doctor — clarity not only brings comfort but can also protect your long-term health.
At Vessol Health, we’re here to make that next step easier. From education to evaluation, we help you take charge of your digestive health — with confidence, compassion, and the care you deserve.
If you’re not sure what’s causing your symptoms, don’t guess—talk to your doctor. Getting clarity ensures you’ll get the right treatment and, in the case of polyps, could even prevent something more serious down the line. Your health and peace of mind are worth it.
