Classification of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can be broadly classified into internal and external. Internal hemorrhoids originate from the internal venous plexus above the dentate line while external hemorrhoids originate from the external plexus below the dentate line. The line lies at 2 cm from the anal verge and demarcates the transitionfrom the upper and the lower anal canal.

• First degree—hemorrhoids bleed but do notprolapse.

• Second degree—hemorrhoids prolapse on straining andreduce spontaneously.

• Third degree—hemorrhoids prolapse onstraining and require manual reduction.

• Fourth degree—hemorrhoidsare prolapsed and incarcerated.