Hemorrhoids and colon cancer are two different conditions, but they can share similar symptoms. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus, while colon cancer is a malignancy that can develop in the colon or rectum.

Though hemorrhoids can cause rectal bleeding and other troubling symptoms, they are not necessarily indicative of colon cancer.

Hemorrhoids: Causes and Symptoms

There are several factors that can lead to hemorrhoids, including chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, and excessive straining during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids can be classified into two types: internal and external.

Internal hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum and usually do not cause pain, though they can cause bleeding. External hemorrhoids develop outside the anus and can be painful and itchy. Common symptoms of hemorrhoids include:.

Bleeding during bowel movements
Pain or discomfort
Itching or irritation around the anus
A lump near the anus
Mucus discharge after bowel movements

Colon Cancer: Symptoms and Risk Factors

Colon cancer is the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. It can arise in the colon or rectum and usually develops slowly over several years. Common symptoms of colon cancer include:.

Blood in the stool
A change in bowel habits
Abdominal pain or cramping
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue or weakness

While anyone can develop colon cancer, there are certain risk factors that can increase your chances, including age, certain genetic syndromes, a personal or family history of colon cancer or polyps, inflammatory bowel disease, and a high-fat, low-fiber diet.

What’s the Difference?: Hemorrhoids vs. Colon Cancer

Though hemorrhoids and colon cancer can cause some similar symptoms, there are several key differences between the two conditions.

Hemorrhoids are typically benign and do not pose a serious health threat, while colon cancer is a potentially life-threatening malignancy. Hemorrhoids can cause rectal bleeding, but this bleeding is usually bright red and stops on its own. Bleeding from colon cancer, on the other hand, is often dark red or maroon in color and may be mixed with stool.

Another key difference between hemorrhoids and colon cancer is the location of the bleeding. Hemorrhoids usually cause bleeding during bowel movements, whereas colon cancer can cause bleeding at any time.

Individuals with hemorrhoids may also experience pain or discomfort, while those with colon cancer may experience abdominal pain, cramping, and fatigue.

What to Do If You Have Symptoms

If you are experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids or colon cancer, it is important to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.

While hemorrhoids can usually be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter remedies, colon cancer requires prompt medical attention to prevent it from spreading and becoming more difficult to treat.

Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy, which is a procedure that allows a doctor to examine the colon and rectum for signs of cancer or other abnormalities.

If the doctor detects cancerous or precancerous growths, they may perform a biopsy or recommend surgery to remove the growths.

Prevention Strategies

There are several strategies you can use to reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids or colon cancer:.

Drink plenty of water and eat a high-fiber diet to prevent constipation
Avoid straining during bowel movements
Exercise regularly to improve bowel function and overall health
Get screened regularly for colon cancer, especially if you have risk factors

The Bottom Line

While hemorrhoids and colon cancer can cause similar symptoms, there are clear differences between the two conditions.

Hemorrhoids are usually benign and can be managed with lifestyle changes, while colon cancer is a potentially life-threatening malignancy that requires prompt medical attention.