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What are the Symptoms of Hemorrhoids in Children?

K. Gierok
K. Gierok

Hemorrhoids often develop in children due to the development of diarrhea, constipation, infections, and a variety of other causes. Some common symptoms include bleeding from the rectum, anal itching, general discomfort, and an external anal protrusion. Children who are suffering from this condition should be treated quickly and monitored carefully in order to prevent the development of infections associated with the condition. Typically, when treated quickly and properly, hemorrhoids cause no lasting effects on the child.

One of the most common symptoms of hemorrhoids in children is bleeding from the rectum. This is often caused by a rupture of the blood vessels in or around the anal canal, and the blood is often bright red. Also, the bleeding associated with this condition typically occurs only during bowel movements. Rectal bleeding that occurs at other times may indicate a more serious problem, and should be examined by a medical professional as soon as possible.

Bleeding from the rectum is the most common symptom of hemorrhoids in children.
Bleeding from the rectum is the most common symptom of hemorrhoids in children.

Anal itching is another common symptom of hemorrhoids. This symptom, unfortunately, is often one of the reasons that it often takes a substantial period of time for hemorrhoids in children to heal completely. Hemorrhoids often secrete a mucus that moistens the anus and surrounding tissue. This mucus, combined with stool from the bowel movements, often create a chronic itch that children typically have a hard time ignoring. Fortunately, most over-the-counter creams for the treatment of hemorrhoids contain ingredients designed to aid in the elimination of itchy skin.

Anal itching and bathroom avoidance may be symptoms of hemorrhoids in children.
Anal itching and bathroom avoidance may be symptoms of hemorrhoids in children.

General discomfort is one of the most classic symptoms of hemorrhoids, and it is experienced by adults as well as by children. Typically, the pain and discomfort occurs during long periods of sitting or attempting to have a bowel movement. Children who experience this symptom often become constipated as they try to avoid having a bowel movement because of the pain it causes. They are often afraid to try to use the bathroom and may require addition treatment.

Hemorrhoids in children can occur internally or externally.
Hemorrhoids in children can occur internally or externally.

One other symptom of hemorrhoids is an anal protrusion. This is a large lump or mass that is found near the opening of the anal canal, and it is often quite painful. These external hemorrhoids must be treated with just as much care as their internal counterparts. Failing to treat them properly can lead to scarring and skin tags. Fortunately, adding more fiber to the diet and taking pain relievers can help relieve both types of hemorrhoids, and external ones can be removed if needed.

Discussion Comments

SteamLouis

@ysmina-- Is she restless when she sits down as well? Have you tried an over-the-counter hemorrhoids ointment with aloe vera?

ZipLine

@ysmina-- It's highly possible that she still has a hemorrhoids fissure. Bleeding doesn't have to occur every time. The pain can continue even after the bleeding and constipation has stopped which is probably why your daughter doesn't want to go to the bathroom.

You need to see her pediatrician about this, but for now, continue with the high fiber diet. If she has regularity, eventually when the hemorrhoids has healed and the pain is gone, she should be okay.

ysmina
My five year old tries to avoid going to the bathroom. Even when she has to go, she doesn't until she can't hold it anymore.

Could this have something to do with hemorrhoids? She had bleeding hemorrhoids several months ago, we saw blood in her stool and treated it with ointments and added fiber to her diet. I haven't seen blood recently, I just don't know why she's trying to avoid going to the bathroom.

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    • Bleeding from the rectum is the most common symptom of hemorrhoids in children.
      By: dr_ox
      Bleeding from the rectum is the most common symptom of hemorrhoids in children.
    • Anal itching and bathroom avoidance may be symptoms of hemorrhoids in children.
      By: Jelena Ivanovic
      Anal itching and bathroom avoidance may be symptoms of hemorrhoids in children.
    • Hemorrhoids in children can occur internally or externally.
      By: Alila Medical Media
      Hemorrhoids in children can occur internally or externally.
    • Over-the-counter creams can be used to treat a child's hemorrhoids.
      By: carroteater
      Over-the-counter creams can be used to treat a child's hemorrhoids.