A knot-like enlargement of the blood vessels in the anal area that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. The term is usually used in the plural.
example
Der Arzt diagnostizierte bei ihm Hämorrhoiden zweiten Grades.
The doctor diagnosed him with second-degree hemorrhoids.
Usage tips
Use in the plural
In the medical meaning, this word is almost always used in the plural. So people say 'Hämorrhoiden haben' (to have hemorrhoids) or 'Hämorrhoiden behandeln' (to treat hemorrhoids). The singular form 'die Hämorrhoide' (the hemorrhoid) is very rare in this context.
EXAMPLE
Viele Menschen leiden im Laufe ihres Lebens an Hämorrhoiden.
Many people suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.
Context clue
You can easily recognize the meaning from the context. If people are talking about health, doctors, or physical complaints, the medical meaning is meant. If a person is called a 'Hämorrhoide' (hemorrhoid), it is a strong insult.
EXAMPLE
Gegen die Schmerzen durch Hämorrhoiden gibt es spezielle Salben.
There are special ointments for pain caused by hemorrhoids.
Register: Technical language
'Hämorrhoide' (hemorrhoid) is the medical technical term. In everyday language, the topic is often avoided or paraphrased, but when you need to be precise, this is the correct word.
EXAMPLE
Der Proktologe ist der Facharzt für die Behandlung von Hämorrhoiden.
A proctologist is the specialist for the treatment of hemorrhoids.
Register: Colloquial language
This meaning is strongly colloquial and very derogatory. You should only use this word if you deliberately want to insult someone. It is not a neutral expression for an annoying person.
EXAMPLE
Nenn deinen Chef niemals eine Hämorrhoide, auch wenn er dich nervt.
Never call your boss a pain in the ass, even if he annoys you.