Hemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are abnormally dilated veins located in the anal canal and rectum. They are categorized into three types based on their location: internal hemorrhoids, external hemorrhoids, and combined or mixed hemorrhoids.

Internal hemorrhoids reside inside the anus and usually do not cause pain but may lead to bleeding. External hemorrhoids, located outside the anus, often cause discomfort and pain. Mixed hemorrhoids are a combination of both internal and external hemorrhoids.