Hemorrhoid disease is the most common reason patients seek evaluation by a colon and rectal surgeon. The majority of hemorrhoids can be managed nonoperatively with medical management or office-based procedures. The authors review the anatomy, pathophysiology, presentation, and management of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are one of the most common reasons that patients seek consultation from a colon and rectal surgeon.
External hemorrhoids: Causes, symptoms, and treatments
Hemorrhoids, also called piles, happen when clusters of veins in your rectum or anus get swollen or dilated. When these veins swell, blood pools and causes the veins to expand outward into the membranes around your rectal and anal tissue. This can become uncomfortable or painful. But when they expand, they can look like red or discolored bumps or lumps. In fact, less than 5 percent of people who get hemorrhoids have symptoms. Even less need treatment. At least three of every four adults will get them at one point in their life.
Hemorrhoids are usually caused by increased pressure due to pregnancy, being overweight, or straining during bowel movements. By midlife, hemorrhoids often become an ongoing complaint. By age 50, about half the population has experienced one or more of the classic symptoms, which include rectal pain, itching, bleeding, and possibly prolapse hemorrhoids that protrude through the anal canal.
Hemorrhoids are anal blood vessels that are a normal part of your anatomy. They can be internal—blood vessels found in the moist tissue of the inner lining of the anus. They also can be external—blood vessels found under the skin just outside the anus.