Hemorrhoids are swollen, stretched veins in the wall of the anus and rectum. They are very common both in men and women, although some people may not exhibit any symptoms.

According to the American College of Gastroenterology (ACG), about half of all Americans over the age of 50 have hemorrhoids. However, many people who believe they have hemorrhoids actually do not. Several anal and rectal problems (e.g., fissures, fistulae, abscesses) have similar symptoms and are often confused with hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids may cause bleeding with bowel movements, pain and a feeling of fullness in the rectum.

There are two different types of hemorrhoids:

• Internal hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids that form in the rectum, located above the anus. They cannot usually be seen, but may droop down and protrude outside of the anus.
  
  
• External hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids that form under the skin in the anus, below the rectum. They typically appear as a small bulge or lump under the skin around the anus.