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Drugs & Diseases > Emergency Medicine

Hemorrhoids
Updated: Sep 24, 2019 | Author: Kyle R Perry, MD; Chief
Editor: John Geibel, MD, MSc, DSc, AGAF more...

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Hemorrhoids. Anatomy of external hemorrhoid. Image

Background
courtesy of MedicineNet, Inc.
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the lower
rectum. They are among the most common causes of
anal pathology, and subsequently are blamed for
virtually any anorectal complaint by patients and
medical professionals alike. Confusion often arises
because the term "hemorrhoid" has been used to
refer to both normal anatomic structures and
pathologic structures. In the context of this article,
"hemorrhoids" refers to the pathologic presentation
of hemorrhoidal venous cushions.

Hemorrhoidal venous cushions are normal structures

of the anorectum and are anatomically present
1 of 2
unless a previous intervention has taken place.
Because of their rich vascular supply, highly sensitive
location, and tendency to engorge and prolapse,
hemorrhoidal venous cushions are common causes
[1]