While both conditions can cause similar symptoms, hemorrhoids and polyps differ significantly in their nature and location.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, often caused by straining or increased pressure in the area.

Polyps are abnormal growths on the colon or rectum lining that can develop into colorectal cancer. They are commonly linked to genetics and lifestyle factors such as diet.

This article compares hemorrhoids and polyps, highlighting the differences in their symptoms, causes, risk factors, diagnosis, and possible treatments.

Although hemorrhoids and polyps can present with similar symptoms, including rectal bleeding, each condition has distinct characteristics.

Hemorrhoid symptoms

Hemorrhoids occur when veins in the lower rectum and anus become inflamed and swollen. The symptoms can vary depending on the type of hemorrhoid, but common symptoms include:

  • rectal bleeding
  • extreme itching or irritation around the anal region
  • pain or discomfort, especially during bowel movements or when sitting
  • swelling around the anus
  • a lump near the anus that may be painful or sensitive

Polyp symptoms

Polyps are abnormal tissue growths that appear on the lining of the colon or rectum. They often do not cause symptoms, but large polyps may cause:

While lifestyle and dietary choices can influence both conditions, hemorrhoids and polyps have different causes.

Hemorrhoid causes

Hemorrhoids are caused by too much pressure on the veins in the lower rectum and anus, often due to:

  • sitting for long periods on the toilet
  • having obesity
  • chronic diarrhea or constipation
  • straining during bowel movements
  • being pregnant
  • having a low fiber diet
  • frequently lifting heavy objects

Polyp causes

Polyps occur when cells in the lining of the colon or rectum grow abnormally due to genetic mutations or environmental factors. These changes may happen sporadically, meaning they occur randomly without a clear cause, or they may be related to underlying conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing a hemorrhoid versus a polyp.

Hemorrhoid risk factors

Factors that increase the risk of hemorrhoids include:

  • constipation
  • pregnancy and childbirth
  • being overweight
  • having a sedentary lifestyle

Polyp risk factors

Risk factors for polyps include:

If you experience any of the following symptoms, it’s important to contact a doctor:

  • persistent rectal bleeding
  • severe pain or discomfort in the rectal area
  • changes in bowel habits lasting more than a week
  • unexplained weight loss
  • a lump or swelling near the anus
  • blood in the stool or black stool

Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications, such as anemia from chronic bleeding, anal fissures, or the development of colorectal cancer.

For hemorrhoids, a doctor typically starts with a physical examination, looking for swollen veins around the anus. If needed, they may perform a digital rectal exam to feel for internal hemorrhoids, which are under the skin.

For polyps, the process often begins with a review of your symptoms and medical history. A doctor may order a colonoscopy to visually inspect the colon and rectum for abnormal growths.

During this procedure, a surgeon will use a flexible tube with a camera to check for polyps. Sometimes, they may suggest a barium enema or CT colonography, which is a specialized X-ray exam of the colon and rectum, as alternatives.

Both conditions may require additional tests. For hemorrhoids, this can include an anoscopy to view the anal canal. For polyps, a doctor may order a stool test, or a surgeon may biopsy tissues during the colonoscopy to test for cancerous cells.

Treatment for hemorrhoids and polyps depends on the specific condition and severity. Both have various options to alleviate symptoms and prevent complications.

Hemorrhoid treatment

Treatment for hemorrhoids may include:

  • Dietary changes and bathroom habits: These include increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining during bowel movements to reduce pressure on the rectal veins.
  • Over-the-counter (OTC) medications: Specialized creams, ointments, suppositories, and pain medications can help reduce pain and swelling.
  • Warm baths: Sit in warm water or take sitz baths for at least 10 to 15 minutes several times per day to soothe discomfort and reduce inflammation.
  • Medical procedures: If home treatments aren’t helping, a doctor may recommend rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal for severe or persistent cases.

Polyp treatment

The primary treatment for colorectal polyps involves removing them during a colonoscopy. However, if the polyps are too large, your doctor may recommend surgery, often using minimally invasive techniques like laparoscopy.

If a polyp is found to be cancerous, you may need additional treatments like chemotherapy or radiation, depending on the cancer’s stage and nature.

While it’s not always possible to prevent hemorrhoids or polyps completely, there are several strategies you can adopt to reduce your risk:

  • eating a high fiber diet to prevent constipation and reduce straining during bowel movements
  • staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep your stools soft and reduce the risk of constipation
  • exercising regularly to promote healthy bowel movements
  • avoiding sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet
  • maintaining a moderate weight to reduce pressure on the rectal veins

Below are some frequently asked questions about hemorrhoids and polyps.

Can you feel polyps with your finger?

You usually can’t feel polyps with your finger. Doctors typically find polyps during a colonoscopy. However, a doctor may feel rectal polyps during a digital rectal exam.

Can polyps protrude from your anus?

If polyps grow large enough, they can protrude from your anus. However, such large polyps are often cancerous. A 2018 case study supports this scenario, where a large adenomatous polyp was expelled during defecation.

Can you have hemorrhoids and polyps at the same time?

Yes, it’s possible to have both hemorrhoids and polyps at the same time, as they are separate conditions affecting the rectum and colon.

What’s the difference between hemorrhoids, polyps, and anal cancer?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. Polyps are benign growths in the colon or rectum that can become cancerous. Anal cancer is a malignant tumor in the anus.

While hemorrhoids and polyps may cause similar symptoms like rectal bleeding and discomfort, they differ in nature and location.

Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus, while polyps are abnormal tissue growths on the colon or rectum lining that can become cancerous.

You can manage hemorrhoids with lifestyle changes, medication, and surgery. Doctors typically remove polyps during a colonoscopy. If the polyps are cancerous, they may require further treatment.