Hemorrhoids also known as “piles” are nothing but inflammation of the veins found in the anus and rectum area. It can be defined as cluster of masses or cushion like tissues that lie within the anal canal. It occurs due to enlargement of veins that gets swollen. The anal canal is the part through which the stool is expelled outside. Anal canal includes rectum and anus and hence any infection or inflammation caused on the anal canal will cause pain and discomfort while passing stool.
They are of two types of hemorrhoids. One is internal hemorrhoids which lie well inside the anal canal (being rectal side) that includes blood vessels and muscles. External hemorrhoids will affect and cause inflammation of the big blood vessels that engulfs the anus. Normally internal hemorrhoids are harmless but in some cases they get enlarged causing bleeding from anus. External hemorrhoids cause chronic pain due to clotting of blood in the blood vessels. Hemorrhoids can be treated well using medications and other methods. Either they are found inside the rectum or below the skin that covers the anus area. Hemorrhoid is a common problem and is found in many adults who have crossed 50 years causing bleeding, discomfort and itching.
How common are hemorrhoids?
Hemorrhoids are quite common in almost every adult above 50-55 years. But they cause problem only when the tissues get enlarged. About 4% of the people with hemorrhoids will have problems and complications. The growth reaches its peak during the age group of 45-65 years in both men and women.
Causes :
Hemorrhoids are believed to be formed due to repeated strain caused to the rectal muscles while passing stool. Actually the blood vessels and the anal cushions develop inflammation leading to the increased size of the supporting tissues. This tissue accumulates into a bulging mass and protrudes well into the anal canal causing bleeding and pain.