When the pressure of the blood in these veins is raised, the veins become swollen, somewhat like varicose veins in the legs.

Risk Factors & Prevention
The pressure on the veins of the anus may be increased by straining to move your bowels (constipation) or by sitting too long on the toilet. Hemorrhoids may also be a complication of obesity or liver disease. They occur often in pregnant women, but usually disappear over time.

To stop hemorrhoids before they start:

• Move your bowels as soon as possible after you feel the urge.
• Don't sit on the toilet too long-the longer you sit, the greater the pressure on the veins around the anus.
• Avoid constipation by staying active.
• Add fiber to your diet and drink lots of liquids.

Symptoms & Diagnosis
Symptoms: Sometimes the only sign of hemorrhoids is bleeding from the anus. You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. The hemorrhoids usually become irritated and painful only if they stretch and protrude through the anus.

Hemorrhoids outside the anus generally become a problem only if the blood clots. When this happens, the swellings become large and painful. You may feel a tender lump that begins to bleed if broken by rubbing or straining. Draining of mucus or too much rubbing or cleaning may cause itching around the anus. Mild bleeding alone, without pain, is usually not serious and goes away after a few days.

Diagnosis: Any bleeding from the anus is reason to visit your doctor. The doctor will examine you and run tests to make sure you don't have cancer or some other disease of the intestines or rectum.

Treatment
If you have hemorrhoids, your doctor may recommend that you reduce the pressure on the veins by softening your stools. Increasing the amount of fiber you eat-in foods such as fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, and whole grains-and drinking six to eight glasses of nonalcoholic liquids every day will help.

Keeping the area clean is also important. Avoid vigorous wiping with toilet paper, and bathe and dry the anus gently after each bowel movement.

If you are having pain that you know is from hemorrhoids, but no bleeding, home treatment may be all that is needed. Try applying ice or soaking in warm baths three or four times a day. To protect the area, clean it and apply zinc oxide ointment or petroleum jelly. Medicated suppositories are available.

Hemorrhoid Removal
If the symptoms continue, your doctor may suggest removing the hemorrhoids. This can be done either at the doctor's office or in the hospital by using any of several techniques. The hemorrhoids can be removed surgically or by cutting off the blood supply. There are several methods for hemorrhoid removal; some are surgical, while others are office procedures. Your surgical consultant can make the appropriate recommendation.