Hemorrhoids (swollen blood vessel at the opening (anus) or at the lower end of the bowel) are usually caused by increased pressure on the veins of the anus and the rectum.

This pressure inflames and swells the veins. Its causes are constipation and straining, pregnancy and childhood birth, lifting heavy objects, obesity.

Others are poor anal hygiene, hypothyroidism, and inactivity especially standing or sitting and far extended periods. Hemorrhoids are also caused by food allergies, portal hypertension and poor liver function.

The symptoms of Hemorrhoids are Pain, itching, burning or bleeding in the anal area, blue or purple patches of hard skin near the anus, and lumpy tissue protruding from the anus.