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Hemorrhoids don't always cause troublesome symptoms. Small hemorrhoids may only cause mild discomfort. But large hemorrhoids can be irritating and itchy.

The most common symptom is bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. Other symptoms are:¹

• Swellings hanging out of your anus (this is called a prolapse)
• Itching
• Leaking mucus from your anus (this may irritate your skin)
• Pain, which you usually only get when the swellings are hanging down outside your anus (prolapsed).

You may also get a blood clot (thrombus) in the hemorrhoid. This isn't common but it can be painful.

This information is for educational use only, and is not a substitute for prompt professional medical advice. Readers should always consult a physician or other professional for advice and treatment. ©BMJ Publishing Group Limited 2008. All rights reserved.