Hemorrhoids are sometimes described as varicose veins in the lower rectum or anus. They're very common, and almost three out of four adults will have them at some point during their lives. Hemorrhoids can be internal or external. Internal hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop inside the rectum. External hemorrhoids are swollen veins under the skin around the anus.
 

You can experience differing symptoms depending on the location of your hemorrhoids. Signs and symptoms of external hemorrhoids can include:

The holidays create many reasons for people to feel stressed: Buying and wrapping gifts, spending time with family, and mounting social obligations. Chances are if you’re feeling stressed about the holidays, or anything for that matter, you’re also feeling it in your digestive system. This is because the brain and the gut communicate with each other.