I have a bad case of hemorrhoids. i can see and feel them. i've had them before, but this time i have a lot of mucus. could this be more?

Of course it can be: Yes, try not to strain when you have a bm. That is the main cause. Also if you do a lot of heavy lifting, it will bring them out with that straining. If here is a lot of mucous, the tissue is getting irritated. You may need an operation if you have prolapsing anal mucosa. That makes lots of mucous. See a colorectal or knowledgeable general surgeon.

Could be: The symptoms you've described could well be due to hemorrhoids, but there are other possibilities as well. If this is an ongoing problem, you should see a colorectal surgeon who can diagnose the problem and explain your options.