The term hemorrhoids refers to a condition in which the veins around the anus or lower rectum are swollen and inflamed.
Hemorrhoids are common in both men and women. About half of the population has hemorrhoids by age 50.
Hemorrhoids Causes and Types
There are several groups of veins that surround the rectum and anus -- one group is known as internal hemorrhoidal veins, the other is known as external hemorrhoidal veins. The underlying cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure within these veins.
There are a number of conditions that can increase the pressure within the hemorrhoidal veins. While these conditions are not causes of hemorrhoids, they are considered hemorrhoid risk factors.
Risk factors for hemorrhoids include:
- Straining to move stool, or other poor bowel habits such as sitting for long periods
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Anal intercourse
- Cirrhosis
- Obesity
- A high-fat, low-fiber diet.
(Click Causes of Hemorrhoids for more information.)