Overview
The most common causes of hemorrhoids are straining at bowel movements, prolonged sitting and pregnancy. Internal hemorrhoids occur above the anal sphincter, and external hemorrhoids occur below, outside the anal canal.
Review Date 6/11/2024
Updated by: Jenifer K. Lehrer, MD, Department of Gastroenterology, Aria - Jefferson Health Torresdale, Jefferson Digestive Diseases Network, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David C. Dugdale, MD, Medical Director, Brenda Conaway, Editorial Director, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.