To diagnose hemorrhoids, your healthcare provider will rule out other problems and determine how bad your hemorrhoids are. Read on to learn more.

Hemorrhoid tissues are "cushions" of blood vessels that swell slightly during bowel movements. Too much pressure on the anal canal can make these tissues stay enlarged and cause symptoms. This can happen both inside and outside the anal canal.

You may need surgery for hemorrhoids if they cause severe symptoms. Or you may have it if your hemorrhoids come back after you have tried other treatments. Read on to learn what to expect.

If your symptoms persist, your health care provider may recommend removing the hemorrhoid. This can be done in your provider's office or at a surgical center.

During colorectal surgery, parts of the colon or rectum are surgically removed. Read on to learn what to expect before, during, and after the surgery.

The colon and rectum have a smooth lining composed of millions of cells. Changes in these cells can lead to growths in the colon called polyps. These can become cancerous and should be removed. Read on to learn more.

Irrigating a colostomy allows you increased control over the timing of your bowel movements. Once a day, or once every other day, you irrigate by flushing the colostomy with warm water. Read on for clear step-by-step instructions.

Risk factors are habits and conditions that make heart disease more likely. The more risk factors you have, the higher your chances of a heart attack. Most risk factors can be managed to help make your heart healthier.

Making even one lifestyle change for your heart reduces your risk for heart disease. Change is hard for everyone, so take it one step at a time. Here are some tips to help you get started on making changes that are good for your heart.

Women may be surprised to learn heart disease is the biggest threat to their health--even more so than breast cancer. And the same factors that put women at risk of a heart attack also increase their chances of stroke and other health problems. If your heart's in trouble, your body may send you warning signs. It's up to you to notice these and talk to your healthcare provider about them.