What are hemorrhoids?

According to Mayo Clinic, hemorrhoids, or piles, are swollen veins in your anus and lower rectum, similar to varicose veins.

What is the difference between internal and external hemorrhoids?

Internal hemorrhoids form in the lower rectum (inside your anal canal), and external hemorrhoids form around your anus and are visible.

Will my hemorrhoids go away?

Hemorrhoids may be a regular occurrence for some people, lasting a few days at a time. If your hemorrhoids are persistent and don't improve with at-home remedies, you should seek advice from a medical professional.

What causes hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are often caused by increased pressure on your rectum, including straining during bowel movements, having diarrhea or constipation, sitting too long on the toilet, heavy lifting, and being pregnant.

Are hemorrhoids common during pregnancy?

Yes. Constipation, increased blood volume, and your growing uterus and baby can cause hemorrhoids.

Do I have an anal fissure or hemorrhoids?

Both anal fissures and hemorrhoids can cause pain during bowel movements and produce bright red blood during and after bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins inside or at the opening of your anal canal, and they can feel like small lumps. Anal fissures are tears in the lining of your anus and are the result of trauma. Use a hand mirror to self-diagnose or see a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

Is exercise bad for anal fissures and hemorrhoids?

No. Exercising can reduce the recurrence of hemorrhoids and shrink them faster. It also tones the muscles that help ease bowel movements and helps your digestive system function better, decreasing the likelihood of hard, irritating stool, which can cause hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Why am I bleeding after I poop?

If you have bright red blood in the toilet or when you wipe after a bowel movement, you might have hemorrhoids or an anal fissure. See a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis.

What is a toilet stool/Squatty Potty?

Toilet stools like Squatty Potties are used to position your knees above your hips to relax your pelvic floor muscles and help you from straining during bowel movements.

Can physical therapy heal my hemorrhoids?

Yes, but not always. "Those with anal fissures and hemorrhoids commonly have tight, short, and nonrelaxing pelvic floor muscles," says Emma Elton, PT, DPT. An evaluation and customized program can improve your bowel function.

What is a sitz bath?

A sitz bath is a shallow, warm bath that can be performed in a bathtub or a small basin that fits over your toilet.

What are foods with high fiber content?

Click here for more high-fiber food ideas from Mayo Clinic

What foods should I avoid when I have hemorrhoids?

Avoid dehydrating drinks and food such as alcohol, sugar, salty foods.