Hemorrhoid medication can help relieve pain, swelling, and itching caused by internal or external hemorrhoids. Learn about prescription and over-the-counter options, creams, suppositories, and treatments that ease symptoms and promote healing for mild to severe cases Hemorrhoids, or piles, are a common condition. These swollen veins inside of your rectum or outside of your anus can cause pain, anal itching and bleeding. Symptoms often improve with at-home treatments. Eating more fiber and avoiding straining can help prevent hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in your rectum or anus. 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. These cushions are naturally present in the anus and are known as hemorrhoids. It comprises loose connective tissue, smooth muscle and blood muscles. The main function of hemorrhoids is to hold stool.