What Is Hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are swollen but normally present blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum that stretch under pressure. Hemorrhoids are very similar to varicose veins in the legs. The increased pressure and swelling may result from straining to move the bowel.
Factors contributing to hemorrhoids are: pregnancy, heredity, aging, and chronic constipation or diarrhea.
Hemorrhoids may occur inside the anus (internal) or under the skin around the anus (external). An internal hemorrhoid may protrude through the anus outside the body. This is called a protruding hemorrhoid.

