Lower end of the oesophagus and cardia through the gastro-oesophageal veins, the anal canal via the
hemorrhoidal veins, in the falciform ligament via the umbilical veins, in the abdominal wall and retroperitoneum.
Common, but rarely a serious risk to health, hemorrhoids are the result of too much pressure on the hemorrhoidal veins in the rectum.
But, if the pressure and swelling continue, the hemorrhoidal veins may stretch out of shape, sometimes so much that they bulge through the anus to the outside of the body.
Eating the right amounts of bran (the outer coating of grains, available mainly as cereals), as well as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains results in a soft, bulky stool that is easily eliminated without strain or pressure on the hemorrhoidal veins. (See box for list of good fiber sources, on page 13.)