Causes of Hemorrhoids: 8 Real Reasons (It’s Not Just Toilet Habits)

If you think hemorrhoids are caused by reading too long on the toilet — think again.

The real causes are often invisible: pressure, genetics, diet, and even your job.

Here are the 8 most common causes — backed by medical research.

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1. Chronic Constipation

Straining to pass hard stools puts direct pressure on rectal veins → swelling → hemorrhoids.

Fix: Fiber (30g/day), water (2L/day), movement.

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2. Chronic Diarrhea

Frequent bowel movements irritate the anal area and weaken tissues over time.

Fix: Identify cause (food intolerance, IBS), hydrate, use barrier creams.

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3. Pregnancy

Two factors:

• Physical: Growing uterus presses on pelvic veins
• Hormonal: Progesterone relaxes vein walls

Fix: Side-lying position, pelvic floor exercises, fiber.

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4. Obesity

Extra abdominal weight = increased pressure on pelvic floor → veins swell.

Fix: Even 5–10% weight loss can reduce symptoms.

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5. Prolonged Sitting

Office jobs, long drives, sedentary lifestyle → blood pools in rectal veins.

Fix: Stand every 30 min, use cushion, walk 5 min/hour.

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6. Heavy Lifting

Straining during lifting (gym, construction, moving boxes) → same effect as constipation.

Fix: Lift with legs, exhale during lift, avoid holding breath.

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7. Low-Fiber Diet

Low fiber → hard stools → straining → hemorrhoids.

Top fiber sources: Lentils, raspberries, oats, chia seeds, broccoli.

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8. Genetics & Age

Some people inherit weaker connective tissue around veins.
After 45, tissues naturally weaken → higher risk.

Fix: Prevention becomes even more important.

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Myths vs Facts

Myth	Fact
“Spicy food causes hemorrhoids”	❌ No — but it can irritate existing ones
“Only dirty people get them”	❌ No — even athletes and health nuts get them
“Sitting on cold floors causes them”	❌ No — temperature doesn’t affect vein pressure
“You get them from toilet seats”	❌ No — not contagious

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FAQs

Can stress cause hemorrhoids?

Indirectly — stress can cause constipation or diarrhea, which can trigger hemorrhoids.

Does anal sex cause hemorrhoids?

Not directly — but rough activity can irritate existing hemorrhoids or cause fissures.

Can tight underwear cause hemorrhoids?

No — but non-breathable fabrics can increase moisture and itching, worsening discomfort.

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