The Most Common Causes of Hemorrhoids

Published at 16 October 2024

Hemorrhoids are masses or bulges in the rectum veins or around the anus. They occur as a result of intense pressure on these veins, as occurs in cases of severe constipation or straining during defecation, which causes them to swell and sometimes become inflamed, leading to the appearance of painful and embarrassing hemorrhoid symptoms. (1)

Causes of hemorrhoids

Anything increases pressure on the veins of the rectum or anus can cause hemorrhoids, and the most common causes are: (2)

Chronic constipation or diarrhea.
Habit of straining during defecation.
Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet.
Low fiber diet.
Frequently carrying heavy objects.
Pregnancy. (4)
Obesity. (5)

“Wrong belief: Spicy food does not cause hemorrhoids. This belief is incorrect and there is no scientific evidence that there is a relationship between them!”

Factors increase the possibility of hemorrhoids

Some factors increase the chances of developing hemorrhoids, including:

Aging: Although hemorrhoids may occur at any age, they become more common between the ages of 45-65 years, because the tissues and muscles in the rectum and anus weaken over time. (3)
Genes: If a relative in the family suffers from hemorrhoids, there is a possibility of developing it as well. (6)

Pregnancy and hemorrhoids

One of the most common problems that women suffer from during pregnancy is hemorrhoids, especially in the last 3 months, for several reasons, including: (4)( 5)

Frequent constipation.
Increased size of the fetus, constant pressure on the pelvis and rectum and anus veins.
High progesterone level in pregnancy, which is thought to have a role in relaxing the muscles of the veins in the rectum/anus, making them weaker and more prone to bulging and swelling.
Having hemorrhoids before pregnancy also increases the risk of developing them during pregnancy.

There is no need to worry, hemorrhoids are not a serious problem, whether during pregnancy or otherwise, and they often improve on their own or using some simple treatments.

Prevention of hemorrhoids

There are few things you can do to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids, including: (4)(7)

Do not sit for a long time on the toilet, that is, no more than 10-15 minutes at a time. If you have constipation or problems, try it at another time instead of sitting for a long time.
Do not strain or make an effort while defecating.
Go to the bathroom immediately when you need to defecate, and do not delay it.
Eat more fiber, especially if you have constipation, which is found in abundance in vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains, or you can use fiber supplements from the pharmacy when needed.
Drink more water to facilitate bowel movements.
Stay physically active to facilitate bowel movements as well.
Use laxatives when needed as directed by your pharmacist or doctor; To facilitate the passage of stool without the need to strain.
Avoid carrying heavy objects as much as possible.

We are here for your convenience! Consult the specialist doctors in the Gastroenterology Department at Al-Ahli Hospital to obtain valuable advice about hemorrhoids and how to prevent and treat them so that they do not progress and get worse.