Hemorrhoids are a common and uncomfortable condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Generally, hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus caused by increased pressure in the area.

They can be incredibly painful and frustrating, affecting your day-to-day life and causing discomfort. While there are many possible causes of hemorrhoids, we have put together a list of the top 7 culprits behind your hemorrhoids.

1. Straining on the Toilet

One of the most common causes of hemorrhoids is straining during bowel movements. This can be caused by constipation, hard stools, or poor bowel habits. Straining can cause pressure on your rectal veins, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.

To prevent hemorrhoids caused by straining, it’s important to maintain regular bowel movements by consuming enough fiber and water, and to avoid delaying bowel movements when you feel the urge to go.

2. Sitting for Long Periods

Sitting for long periods of time, especially on hard surfaces, can also increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids. When you sit, you put pressure on your rectal area, which can lead to hemorrhoid development.

This is particularly true if you have a job that requires you to sit for many hours at a time. To prevent hemorrhoids from sitting, take regular breaks and stand up, stretch, or walk around. Adjusting your sitting posture can also help, such as using a cushion or standing desk.

3. Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a common cause of hemorrhoids in women. During pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the lower rectum and anus, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also weaken the rectal walls, making hemorrhoids more likely. Fortunately, hemorrhoids caused by pregnancy often resolve on their own after childbirth but can be managed with lifestyle and dietary changes.

4. Obesity

Being overweight or obese can also increase your risk of developing hemorrhoids. Excess weight puts pressure on your abdominal area, which can increase intraabdominal pressure and cause hemorrhoids to develop.

Losing weight through a healthy diet and exercise routine can help reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids, as well as improve your overall health.

5. Lack of Exercise

A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. Regular exercise helps promote healthy bowel movements and prevents constipation, which is a significant cause of hemorrhoids.

Exercise also helps improve blood flow, reducing the risk of hemorrhoids forming due to blood clots or poor circulation. If you have a desk job, getting up and moving every hour can help, or other activities such as yoga or swimming.

6. Poor Diet

A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation and increased pressure on the rectal area, which can cause hemorrhoid development.

Eating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and nuts can help prevent constipation and promote healthy bowel movements. Drinking enough water is also important to prevent stool from becoming hard and difficult to pass, hopefully preventing hemorrhoids.

7. Chronic Diarrhea

Chronic diarrhea can also lead to hemorrhoids. Diarrhea can be caused by several factors, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), celiac disease, and other digestive issues.

During times of diarrhea, frequent wiping can irritate the rectal area and lead to hemorrhoids. Seeing a gastroenterologist can help diagnose and treat underlying digestive problems that contribute to diarrhea.

In Conclusion

Hemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable and frustrating condition to deal with, but they are often preventable.

By making simple lifestyle changes, including healthier eating habits, staying active and taking breaks at work, you can reduce your risk of developing hemorrhoids. If you already have hemorrhoids, these lifestyle changes can help ease symptoms. If you find your hemorrhoids are still causing you pain, it may be time to see a gastroenterologist for customized medical treatment.