Hemorrhoids are swollen, enlarged veins that can form inside and outside the anus and rectum, causing discomfort and rectal bleeding.

Hemorrhoids are also known as piles, and everyone is born with them, but they become problematic when they become swollen and enlarged.

They are a common condition, with approximately 1 in 20 Americans experiencing symptomatic hemorrhoids. They are more prevalent as individuals age, affecting over half of people over 50.

Risk factors for developing hemorrhoids include being overweight or obese, pregnancy, consuming a low-fiber diet, chronic constipation or diarrhea, regularly lifting heavy objects, spending extended periods sitting on the toilet, and straining during bowel movements.

Hemorrhoids can be categorized into three types: external (underneath the skin around the anus), internal (inside the rectum), and prolapsed (stretching and bulging outside the anus).

Hemorrhoids and anal fissures may have similar symptoms, including itching, pain, and bleeding, but they have different causes. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins, while anal fissures are tears in the anal lining.

Straining, which increases pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, is a common cause of hemorrhoids. This can result from various factors, including weight gain, constipation, and heavy lifting.

Symptoms of hemorrhoids include rectal bleeding, which can be observed on toilet paper, in the stool, or in the toilet bowl. External hemorrhoids may also cause itching, hard lumps near the anus, and pain when sitting.

Other gastrointestinal conditions, such as colon cancer, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis, can mimic hemorrhoid symptoms.

It's essential to consult a healthcare provider if you experience such symptoms to rule out serious conditions.

Hemorrhoids are usually diagnosed through physical exams, including digital rectal exams, anoscopy, and sigmoidoscopy.

Treatment options vary from at-home measures like dietary changes and over-the-counter medications to medical procedures like rubber band ligation and surgery for more severe cases.