Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum or anus.

Rectal lump; Piles; Lump in the rectum

Hemorrhoids are very common, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. They result from increased pressure in the veins of the anus. The pressure causes the veins to swell, making them painful, particularly when you are sitting.

The most common cause is straining during bowel movements.

Hemorrhoids may be caused by:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Constipation
• Sitting for long periods of time
• Anal infections
• Certain diseases, such as liver cirrhosis

Hemorrhoids may be inside or outside the body.

• Internal hemorrhoids occur just inside the anus, at the beginning of the rectum. E
• External hemorrhoids occur at the anal opening and may hang outside the anus.

Images

Hemorrhoids

Review Date: 05/16/2011
Reviewed By: Todd Eisner, MD, Private practice specializing in Gastroenterology, Boca Raton, FL. Clinical Instructor, Florida Atlantic University School of Medicine. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)