Traditional Chinese Medicine Definition

In traditional Chinese medicine, hemorrhoids are referred to as "hemorrhoid," and they fall under the category of external diseases. According to the "Internal Medicine of Traditional Chinese Medicine," hemorrhoids are caused by the dysfunction of the internal organs, leading to an imbalance in the circulation of Qi and blood, which results in the stagnation of the anal venous plexus and the formation of swellings. The characteristic symptoms include the appearance of swellings in the anal area, accompanied by bleeding, pain, and itching.

In clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine, the core pathogenesis of hemorrhoids is the dysfunction of the internal organs and the imbalance in the circulation of Qi and blood, leading to the stagnation of the anal venous plexus. Common precipitating factors include irregular diet, prolonged sitting or standing, constipation, and diarrhea. During the process of differentiation, the following key points should be noted:

1. Wind-heat and dryness of the intestines: Characterized by fresh red blood in stools, burning sensation in the anus, and dry, hard stools. The therapeutic approach is to clear heat, cool the blood, and moisten the intestines for defecation.
2. Damp-heat descending: Marked by anal swellings, dampness and itching, and sticky stools. The therapeutic approach is to clear heat and resolve dampness, reduce swelling, and alleviate pain.
3. Deficiency and descent of Qi: Characterized by anal prolapse, the need to manually push the prolapsed mass back, and fatigue. The therapeutic approach is to tonify Qi, elevate it, and stop bleeding.

Overall therapeutic direction: In the clinical treatment of hemorrhoids, traditional Chinese medicine emphasizes harmonizing Qi and blood, and unblocking the meridians. According to different patterns, appropriate treatment methods should be adopted. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that by adjusting diet, improving lifestyle, and using internal and external herbal applications, hemorrhoid symptoms can be effectively alleviated, and the quality of life of patients can be improved.

Common Syndrome Types and Key Points of Differentiation

Wind-Heat and Intestinal Dryness Syndrome

Main Manifestations: Bright red rectal bleeding, burning sensation at the anus, dry and hard stools

Management Approach: Clear heat and cool blood, moisten intestines and relieve constipation

Damp-heat descending syndrome

Main Manifestations: Anal swelling, moist and itchy, sticky stools

Management Approach: Clear heat and drain dampness, reduce swelling and relieve pain

Deficiency and Sinking Syndrome

Main Manifestations: Anal prolapse with a prolapsed mass that needs to be pushed back in by hand, fatigue

Management Approach: Tonify Qi and elevate, secure and stop bleeding

The above syndrome information is based on traditional Chinese medicine textbooks and clinical standards. Specific differentiation should be completed by a practicing traditional Chinese medicine physician in person.

Physician's Clinical Insights

The symptoms of hemorrhoid patients vary, and the treatment should be selected according to the condition, choosing suitable methods for clearing heat, moistening the intestines, or removing wind and unblocking the collaterals.

— Chen Yan Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner

Reviewed by: Chen Yan (Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner) | 2026-07-07 | Version 2

Hemorrhoids