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Hemorrhoids
Alternate Names : Lump in the Rectum, Piles, Rectal Lump
Definition Hemorrhoids are painful, swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum or anus.
Pictures & Images
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Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
This condition is very common, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. Hemorrhoids result from increased pressure in the veins of the anus. The pressure causes the veins to bulge and expand, making them painful, particularly when you are in a sitting position.
The most common cause is straining during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids may result from constipation, sitting for long periods of time, and anal infections. In some cases they may be caused by other diseases, such as liver cirrhosis.
Internal hemorrhoids occur just inside the anus, at the beginning of the rectum. External hemorrhoids occur at the anal opening and may hang outside the anus.
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Jump to another section
• Definition
• Hemorrhoids Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
• Hemorrhoids Symptoms & Signs
• Hemorrhoids Prevention
• Hemorrhoids Diagnosis & Tests
• Hemorrhoids Treatment
• Hemorrhoids Prognosis
• Hemorrhoids Complications
• Calling Your Health Care Provider
• Pictures & Images
Topics that might be of interest to you Diseases & Conditions
• Cirrhosis
• Iron Deficiency Anemia
• Pancreatitis
Tests & Exams
• Anoscopy
• Sigmoidoscopy
• Stool Guaiac Test
Surgery & Procedures
• Hemorrhoid Surgery
Other Topics
• Bloody or Tarry Stools
• Fiber
Review Date : 7/30/2003
Reviewed By : Jacqueline A. Hart, M.D., Senior Medical Editor, A.D.A.M., Inc. Previously reviewed by Hebe Molmenti, M.D., Ph.D., Private practice specializing in plastic and reconstructive surgery, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network (12/27/2002).
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