Hemorrhoids or piles are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. Strained bowel movements and pregnancy are the two most likely causes of hemorrhoids. These may be classified as internal or external, depending on the basis of their location. If these are present inside the skin around the anus, these are called internal hemorrhoids and in case these are present inside the rectum, these are called external hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoids can be caused by constipation, prolonged sitting continuously for long hours, anal infections, strain during bowel movements, and certain types of diseases like liver cirrhosis. Major symptoms include anal itching, pain in the anus, stool accompanied by blood, and multiple hard tender lumps in the vicinity of the anus.

Diagnosis of hemorrhoids can be performed by simple examination of the rectal area. Tests like anoscopy, sigmoidsoscopy and stool guaiac can be performed if the necessity arises. Treatment methods include Over-the-counter corticosteroid creams, Hemorrhoid creams with lidocaine and stool softeners.