What is the difference between rectal prolapse and hemorrhoids?

Different conditions: Rectal prolapse involves the abnormal movement of the lining of the rectum to outside the anus. Hemorrhoid are dilated veins in the anus and rectum. Either condition may result in discomfort near the rectum or rectal bleeing. Rectal prolapse may require surgical treatment, hemmorrhoids can be treated with creams, placement of bands or surgery if severe.

Depends: Hemorrhoidal prolapse is prolapse of the mucosa which is the superficial layer of the rectum. Complete rectal prolapse is full thickness and involves all layers of the rectum. Hemorrhoidectomy will not resolve a complete rectal prolapse. See a colorectal surgeon to determine the extent of the prolapse.