Hemorrhoids: Symptom and Causes

• Painless bleeding during bowel movements     
  
• Itching or irritation in your anal region
  
• Pain or discomfort in your anal region
  
• Painful bowel movement
  
• Swelling around your anus
  
• A lump near your anus, which may be sensitive or painful
  
• Leakage of faeces
  

Haemorrhoids are very common, especially during pregnancy and after childbirth. They result from increased pressure in the veins of the anus. The pressure causes the veins to swell, making them painful, particularly when you are sitting.

The exact cause is unknown. Most commonly it is caused due to straining during bowel movements. Other contributing factors include

• Chronic diarrhoea or constipation
  
• Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet
  
• Anal infections
  
• Certain diseases, such as liver cirrhosis
  
• Ageing 
  
• Heredity