A hemorrhoid is an enlarged blood vessel within the anal canal or near the anal canal opening, which has become swollen or inflamed. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external. External hemorrhoids can cause itching, burning, and irritation. You might notice streaks of bright red blood on toilet paper after straining to have a bowel movement, and it may be difficult to clean the anal area. The most common symptom of internal hemorrhoids is rectal bleeding. You may notice bright red streaks of blood on toilet paper or bright red blood in the toilet bowl after having a normal bowel movement. You may see blood on the surface of the stool. Internal hemorrhoids can range from small, swollen veins in the wall of the anal canal to large, sagging veins and tissue that bulge out of the anus all the time. There are several treatment options available for hemorrhoids depending upon your particular situation including Infrared Coagulation (IRC), a minimally invasive, non-surgical hemorrhoid treatment that is fast, effective and well tolerated by patients.