Overview By Mayo Clinic Staff Print Hemorrhoids (HEM-uh-roids), also called piles, are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids are similar to varicose veins. Hemorrhoids can develop inside the rectum, called internal hemorrhoids. They also can develop under the skin around the anus, called external hemorrhoids. There are several options available to treat hemorrhoids. Many people get relief with home treatments and lifestyle changes. Request an appointment Diagnosis & treatment Aug. 25, 2023 Print Share on: FacebookTwitter Show references Elsevier Point of Care. Clinical Overview: Hemorrhoids. https://clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 23, 2023. Hemorrhoids. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids/all-content. Accessed Feb. 22, 2023. Hemorrhoids: Expanded information. American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons. https://www.fascrs.org/patients/disease-condition/hemorrhoids-expanded-version. Accessed Feb. 22, 2023. Kwaan MR. Hemorrhoids, anal fissure, and anorectal abscess and fistula. In: Conn's Current Therapy 2023. Elsevier; 2023. https://www.clinicalkey.com. Accessed Feb. 23, 2023. Bleday R, et al. Home and office treatment of symptomatic hemorrhoids. https://www.uptodate.com/contents/search. Accessed Feb. 22, 2023. Ami TR. Allscripts EPSi. Mayo Clinic. March 24, 2023. Related Hemorrhoids Rubber band ligation of hemorrhoid Associated Procedures Colonoscopy Flexible sigmoidoscopy Products & Services A Book: Mayo Clinic on Digestive Health HemorrhoidsSymptoms&causesDiagnosis&treatmentDoctors&departmentsCare atMayoClinic Advertisement Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products. Advertising revenue supports our not-for-profit mission. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy Opportunities Ad Choices Mayo Clinic Press Check out these best-sellers and special offers on books and newsletters from Mayo Clinic Press. Mayo Clinic on Incontinence - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on IncontinenceThe Essential Diabetes Book - Mayo Clinic PressThe Essential Diabetes BookMayo Clinic on Hearing and Balance - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic on Hearing and BalanceFREE Mayo Clinic Diet Assessment - Mayo Clinic PressFREE Mayo Clinic Diet AssessmentMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book - Mayo Clinic PressMayo Clinic Health Letter - FREE book CON-20166950 Patient Care & Health Information Diseases & Conditions Hemorrhoids