Description

Hemorrhoids are varicose (enlarged and swollen) veins around the outside of the anus or in the lower rectum. The rectum is the last part of the bowel that leads to the anus, the opening at the end of the bowel where fecal matter leaves the body. Everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue in this area that’s made up of blood vessels, connective tissue, and some muscle. These “cushions” don’t always become enlarged or distended, but as we age, this phenomenon becomes more common — causing what we call hemorrhoids, also known as piles. Hemorrhoids can be caused in a number of ways, often by straining to make a bowel movement. Lifting heavy objects, along with other activities that may cause straining, can also lead to hemorrhoids. Experiencing increased pressure during pregnancy and being overweight are other contributing factors. Hemorrhoids may be painful and particularly bothersome if they are recurrent, but they are not dangerous or life-threatening, and symptoms usually go away within a few days. There are plenty of effective ways to treat them, as well as options for the less common types of hemorrhoids that may be more problematic.

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