Hemorrhoids can smell really bad or fishy if you are not careful. The topic of hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable one. Because many people don’t like to discuss the topic, information on this common medical ailment can be difficult to find.

That’s why we’ve committed ourselves to answer the most popular question on the topic.

While you should always seek medical attention if you are worried that you might have a problem, there are many at-home treatments that can help with hemorrhoids.

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Let’s discuss one of the most common questions about hemorrhoids that often goes unasked. Do hemorrhoids smell?

Any time your body is fighting inflammation, several different symptoms may occur. In some cases, hemorrhoids do smell.

This is your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Inflamed or irritated hemorrhoids can omit an unpleasant odor for several reasons.

Why Do Hemorrhoids Smell?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectal area or at the opening of the anus. When internal hemorrhoids swell, you may lose some control of your anal sphincter.

This is the most common cause of odor associated with hemorrhoids. Because you lose control, anal leakage of stool and fluids may occur.

While you may not notice the leakage, it may be difficult to ignore the odor that comes with it.

Hemorrhoids may also smell when there is irritation at the opening of the anus. This is often associated with prolapsed internal hemorrhoids. The build up of mucus and small stool particles can lead your hemorrhoids to smell.

When your internal hemorrhoids protrude past the opening of your anus, bacteria, mucus, and stool particles can be left behind.

Even if you think you have thorough cleaned yourself, these small particles may be difficult to reach and can be the source of the smell associated with hemorrhoids.

In some cases, hemorrhoids can also smell if they pop. External hemorrhoids that pop due to blood clots in pockets under the skin’s surface typically smell.

The mixture of blood, fluids, and mucus can cause a metallic or copper smell.

According to Michigan Medicine at the University of Michigan, irritated hemorrhoids can come with a foul odor.

How Bad is the Smell Associated with Hemorrhoids?

While it’s no secret that bowel movements don’t smell like roses, you can assume that any leakage or loss of control from your anal sphincter will result in a foul smell or lingering odor.

Because everyone is different, you may not experience an odor as a symptom of your hemorrhoids.

But, this may also be the only symptom you have.

Internal hemorrhoids are often symptom-less. So, you may find you have no other symptoms of hemorrhoids except for an unpleasant odor that might come from your hemorrhoids.

In these cases, it is necessary to see a doctor to determine if internal hemorrhoids are in fact the cause of this odor.

What Do Hemorrhoids Smell Like?

As mentioned earlier, the most common cause of the smell of hemorrhoids comes from the fecal particles and bacteria left behind by protruding internal hemorrhoids.

Outside of the smell of fecal matter, hemorrhoids are often associated with a fishy smell.

The toxic, fishy smell associated with hemorrhoids is caused by fecal matter or gas that is excreted from the rectum and product by the mucus membrane.

This is also known as anal discharge.

Patients who have had to deal with a fishy smell associated with hemorrhoids often report that they are embarrassed by the problem.

While you may feel like the smell is very evident, it might not be as noticeable to everyone else as it is to you.

The good news is that there are many ways to deal with the smell of hemorrhoids without seeing a doctor.

But, because a fishy smell can be associated with a number of different illnesses, you should always consult a physician if you can.

How Can I Treat Hemorrhoids that Smell?

While it might be a bit embarrassing or discerning to deal with hemorrhoids that smell, there are common treatments that will provide a solution.

Of course, prevention is always the best way to deal with this type of problem. Simple lifestyle changes can help prevent hemorrhoids. These include:

• Follow a diet rich in fiber.
• Stay consistently hydrated.
• Avoid sitting for long periods of time.
• Exercise regularly.
• Don’t wait to pass a bowel movement. Go as soon as you feel the urge.
• Avoid straining during a bowel movement.
• Consider fiber supplements if you don’t eat foods rich in fiber.
• Stay away from spicy foods.

If you can’t prevent hemorrhoids, the next best way to avoid the embarrassing smell that may be associated with them is to treat your hemorrhoids.

At-home treatments include proper self-care.

Avoid wiping excessively, as this can cause bleeding that further irritates your hemorrhoids and adds to the smell. Soothe inflammation with a warm sitz bath or by applying ice for 15-20 minute increments.

Over-the-counter treatments are also available. Use wipes that contain ingredients like witch hazel or aloe.

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And, for more advanced treatments try creams, ointments, or suppositories.

If these don’t work, you may need to consult a physician for a prescription medication or more advanced treatments, including non-invasive procedures.

Hemorrhoids can be a nuisance if they come with irritating symptoms. But, when they emit an odor, they can be even more difficult to deal with because of the embarrassment that comes with the smell.

If you notice an unpleasant odor, and are suffering from hemorrhoids, there are several reasons your hemorrhoids may smell.

But, there are also several ways to treat the issue and get on your way to better health and no more embarrassment.