Fissure or hemorrhoid? Both explained

Noticing blood or a little pain when you go to the bathroom can be worrying, especially when you’re not sure what’s causing it. Fissures and hemorrhoids can feel quite similar, which can make it tricky to know the difference. Let’s take a look at some of the common signs that may help you tell them apart.

In this blog:

1. Fissure vs. Hemorrhoid: What’s the Difference?
2. Signs and Symptoms: How to Tell Them Apart
3. Home Care Tips to Support Comfort
4. When to See a Doctor
5. Frequently Asked Questions
6. Sources

Fissure vs. Hemorrhoid: What’s the Difference?

Hemorrhoids, to put it plainly, are swollen veins in and around the anus. They can develop when there is too much pressure in the area, which can cause the veins to swell. Pregnancy, straining, constipation, and sitting on the toilet for a long time can all contribute to this pressure. Internal hemorrhoids are inside the anus, while external hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the outside.

Fissures can happen when stool is dry or hard, putting pressure on the delicate skin and causing a small rip or tear in the lining of the anus. Diarrhea and wiping too hard can also irritate the area enough to cause a tear.

Signs and Symptoms: How to Tell Them Apart

A few clues can help you tell them apart, including what you can see, feel, and how long the pain sticks around.

What to Look For	Hemorrhoids	Fissures
Visible signs	External hemorrhoids may appear as lumps or swelling around the anus. Internal hemorrhoids are harder to notice unless they get pushed out.	A fissure may look like a small cut or crack in the skin around the anal opening. In some cases, a skin tag can form near the tear.
Sensation	Hemorrhoids may cause itching, tenderness when sitting, or pressure. External hemorrhoids can also be hard and painful.	A sharp pain is common, along with possible itching or burning afterward.
Duration of pain	External hemorrhoids may cause discomfort or pain, while internal hemorrhoids are often painless unless complications occur.	Pain may come during or after a bowel movement, with a dull ache that may linger afterward.

Although hemorrhoids and fissures share some symptoms, rectal bleeding can have other causes. It's important to speak with a healthcare professional about any new or unexplained bleeding rather than assuming hemorrhoids or fissures are responsible.

Home Care Tips to Support Comfort

When it comes to hemorrhoids, most of the discomfort comes from pressure on the veins. With fissures, it’s about trying not to strain the area as much as possible. Both can be supported with a few daily habits and lifestyle changes that may help with comfort.

Habits to Include for Both

• Include more fiber in your diet, such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and beans.
• Drink enough water throughout the day and stay hydrated.
• Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods of time.
• Choose fiber-rich foods regularly to help support comfortable bowel movements.
• Use the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge.
• Try soaking the area in a warm sitz bath for 10–15 minutes to help soothe discomfort..

For hemorrhoids specifically, try applying a cold compress to the area to help with the swelling. You can also add H-Hemorrhoids Formula as part of your daily care routine. It is a topical blend made of homeopathic ingredients for  temporary relief of itching, discomfort and inflammation. 

For fissures, avoid wiping vigorously with hard toilet paper and try to use gentle cleansers that don’t contain alcohol instead. H-Fissures Formula is a topical homeopathic product labeled for temporary relief of fissure-related symptoms. It can be incorporated into your daily care routine alongside these general comfort measures.

When to See a Doctor

In some mild cases, symptoms can clear on their own. If you are experiencing any of the following, it’s best to speak to a healthcare professional:

• The pain, bleeding, or tearing has become worse.
• A hard, swollen, and painful lump appears.
• There are signs of infection, such as foul-smelling discharge, redness, or pus.
• Bleeding is persistent or heavy.

If you are unsure whether you have a fissure or hemorrhoid, it’s recommended that you speak to a healthcare professional, who will be able to assess what you may be dealing with.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a fissure turn into a hemorrhoid?

A fissure is a small tear or crack in the skin and cannot turn into a hemorrhoid. However, both can be present at the same time. 

What causes fissures?

Fissures can be caused in a number of ways, including straining, hard stool, constipation, childbirth, and diarrhea.

What is the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids form inside the rectum and are usually not painful, but can cause bleeding during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids form underneath the skin around the anus. When sitting or passing stool, they can become itchy or painful, or cause a burning sensation. Any bleeding is worth speaking to a healthcare professional about.

How do I use H-Fissures Formula?

You can apply H-Fissures Formula directly to the area using a cotton swab or your fingertip. Follow the label as directed.

How do I use H-Hemorrhoids Formula?

H-Hemorrhoids Formula is a topical product that can be applied to the area using either a cotton swab or your fingertip. Follow the label as directed.

Sources

• Newtown Gastroenterology. Hemorrhoids or Anal Fissures? How to Spot the Difference
• National Institute of Health. Eating, Diet, & Nutrition for Hemorrhoids

Note: This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. H-Hemorrhoids Formula and H-Fissures Formula are homeopathic medicines. Use only as directed. If symptoms persist, worsen, become severe, or signs of infection develop, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.