What Causes Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Major Risk Factors
Hemorrhoids are enlarged, swollen veins in the rectal or anal area. They’re extremely common, yet many people don’t fully understand what causes them or why they keep coming back. While hemorrhoids can happen to anyone, certain lifestyle habits, dietary patterns, and physical conditions significantly increase the risk.
Before diving into each cause, it helps to understand how hemorrhoids connect to the bigger picture of digestive health. For a full overview of types, symptoms, and treatments, you can always refer back to the main Hemorrhoids Pillar page.
How Hemorrhoids Develop
Hemorrhoids form when pressure builds up in the blood vessels of the lower rectum. Over time, this pressure causes veins to stretch, weaken, and swell. Sometimes, the swollen veins are internal (inside the rectum), while others develop around the anus, causing discomfort, pain, itching, or bleeding.
While occasional pressure isn’t a problem, repeated strain or chronic inflammation damages the blood vessel walls. This makes hemorrhoids more likely to recur unless the underlying cause is identified and managed.
Primary Causes of Hemorrhoids
1. Chronic Constipation and Straining
Chronic constipation is one of the leading contributors to hemorrhoids. When stool becomes hard and difficult to pass, individuals are more likely to push or strain during bowel movements. This force increases pressure in the rectal veins, causing them to expand and eventually bulge outward.
In many cases, people don’t realize how often they strain—sometimes out of habit, impatience, or simply sitting too long on the toilet. If this is something you struggle with, our dedicated guide on constipation and straining as a cause of hemorrhoids provides deeper insight.
2. Pregnancy and Hormonal Changes
Pregnancy, especially in the later stages, significantly increases the risk of hemorrhoids. As the uterus grows, it presses against pelvic veins, slowing circulation from the lower body. This increased pressure makes hemorrhoids more likely to form.
Additionally, hormonal changes during pregnancy—particularly higher levels of progesterone—relax blood vessel walls, making veins more prone to swelling. A growing baby, constipation during pregnancy, and increased blood volume also contribute to the problem. Learn more about this topic in our detailed article on pregnancy-related hemorrhoids.
3. Chronic Diarrhea
Although commonly associated with constipation, hemorrhoids can also result from chronic diarrhea. Frequent bowel movements cause irritation and inflammation in the anal canal. Soft or watery stool may require excessive wiping, which further aggravates the skin.
Both diarrhea and constipation disrupt the normal function of the rectal area and compromise the integrity of blood vessels, making hemorrhoid formation more likely.
4. Obesity and Sedentary Lifestyle
Carrying excess weight—especially around the abdomen—places additional pressure on the pelvic floor. This pressure slows blood flow and increases strain on rectal veins. Sedentary habits, such as working long hours at a desk or sitting for extended periods, worsen circulation to the lower body.
Many individuals with obesity also experience chronic constipation due to lower mobility and less frequent physical activity, creating a combination of factors that further elevate hemorrhoid risk.
5. Low-Fiber Diet
A lack of dietary fiber is one of the most overlooked causes of hemorrhoids. Fiber helps soften stool, increase volume, and promote easier bowel movements. Without enough fiber, stool becomes dry and compacted, forcing the body to strain during elimination.
This prolonged straining increases rectal pressure and weakens the vein walls. Low-fiber diets are common among people who consume mostly processed foods, refined grains, and inadequate fruits and vegetables. Developing a fiber-rich eating pattern is essential for preventing hemorrhoids long-term.
6. Heavy Lifting
Whether through manual labor, frequent weightlifting, or improper gym technique, heavy lifting can contribute to hemorrhoids. When you lift heavy objects, your body naturally tightens core muscles and increases intra-abdominal pressure. If repeated often, this pressure affects venous circulation in the rectum.
Improper breathing techniques, such as holding your breath while lifting, intensify this strain. Combining heavy lifting with constipation or poor posture increases the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids even further.
Other Contributing Factors
In addition to the primary causes, several secondary factors may increase hemorrhoid risk:
- Standing for long periods
- Prolonged sitting on the toilet (phone scrolling habits)
- Low water intake
- Chronic coughing or sneezing
- Genetic predisposition
These factors don’t always cause hemorrhoids on their own—but when combined with constipation, poor diet, or sedentary living, they significantly increase the risk.
Who Is More Likely to Develop Hemorrhoids?
Although anyone can develop hemorrhoids at any age, certain groups have a higher likelihood:
- Pregnant women
- Adults over age 50
- People with chronic digestive issues
- Individuals with obesity
- Sedentary workers like drivers and office employees
For many individuals, hemorrhoids are the result of multiple overlapping factors. Identifying which causes apply to you is the first step toward long-term prevention.
How to Reduce Your Hemorrhoid Risk
The good news is that many hemorrhoid causes are preventable through consistent lifestyle changes. Consider habits such as:
- Increasing daily fiber intake
- Drinking more water
- Moving frequently throughout the day
- Avoiding prolonged sitting
- Using proper lifting techniques
If your symptoms are persistent or severe, consulting a healthcare provider is essential. Some individuals may also benefit from minimally invasive procedures or medical intervention. For a deeper breakdown of related topics, visit the Hemorrhoids Causes Cluster page, which organizes every cause in a clear, structured format.
When to Seek Medical Care
Although hemorrhoids are usually harmless, you should seek medical attention if you experience:
- Heavy or continuous rectal bleeding
- Severe pain or swelling
- A lump that doesn’t improve over time
- Symptoms of infection such as fever, pus, or redness
Some conditions mimic hemorrhoid symptoms, such as anal fissures or colorectal disease. A professional exam ensures an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
For reliable medical information, you may refer to the Cleveland Clinic: Cleveland Clinic – Hemorrhoids