Proctology
Haemorrhoids and anal skin tags – common and treatable
Haemorrhoids and anal skin tags are often confused. Both are common, harmless and treatable, but in different ways.
Short answer
Haemorrhoids are enlarged vascular cushions in the anal canal that can bleed and prolapse. Anal skin tags are excess skin at the anal opening, often after a previous haemorrhoid or pregnancy. Haemorrhoids are treated with advice, rubber band ligation, laser or surgery. Skin tags that cause problems can be removed with a minor procedure.
What is the difference?
Haemorrhoids sit in the anal canal and consist of vascular tissue. They can cause bright red bleeding and bulge out during bowel movements.
Anal skin tags are folds of skin outside the anal opening. They rarely bleed but can cause itching, chafing and difficulty keeping clean.
The examination
A proctological assessment includes a conversation, inspection and examination with a proctoscope and, when needed, a rectoscope. It takes a few minutes and is done gently. Rectal bleeding should always be assessed and not automatically explained by haemorrhoids.
Treatment of haemorrhoids
Mild symptoms often improve with a high-fibre diet, plenty of fluids and softer stools. Internal haemorrhoids that bleed or prolapse can be treated with rubber band ligation at the clinic. Larger haemorrhoids may need surgery.
- Rubber band ligation: a quick procedure at the clinic
- Laser haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP): a gentle option for selected patients
- Surgery: for larger or recurrent haemorrhoids
Treatment of anal skin tags
Skin tags that cause problems can be removed under local anaesthesia. The procedure is planned so that the wound is small and healing as comfortable as possible.
Next step
Have your symptoms assessed by a specialist surgeon
No referral needed. Short lead times to assessment and treatment in Karlstad, Sweden.
Frequently asked questions
Does rubber band ligation hurt?
Most people feel pressure or mild discomfort for a few days. The procedure is performed above the area that has pain sensation.
Is it embarrassing to seek help for anal problems?
These are among the most common problems we see. You will be treated factually, discreetly and respectfully.
How much does it cost?
A consultation for anal symptoms costs SEK 1,200, or SEK 1,900 with rectoscopy. Rubber band treatment costs SEK 3,500. All prices are in the price list.
Sources
This text is patient information and does not replace an individual medical assessment.