what are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are veins under the rectum or around the anus that are dilated or swollen. The blood coagulation and blood thrombosis are caused by repeated pressure in the rectal area or anal veins. This pressure usually results repeated straining to pass bowel movements. Rarely they result from benign or malignant tumors of the abdomen or rectum. It's thought that 75% of Singaporeans will have them at some time in their lives. The risk for getting hemorrhoids increases with: Constipation, low dietary fiber intake, pregnancy and delivery, obesity, diarrhea, overexertion and certain occupations that require continual standing or sitting. Symptoms of hemorrhoids include: Rectal bleeding, rectal tenderness and/or itching, uncomfortable, painful bowel movements, especially with straining, a lump that can be felt in the anus, a mucous discharge after a bowel movement.