Hemorrhoid Causes

What is the Cause of Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids is a common ailment in 50% of adults 50 years or older. Approximately 10 million Americans suffer from hemorrhoids, which is characterized as the swollen veins in or around the rectum or anus. The causes of hemorrhoids vary between men and women, and life circumstances as well as dietary habits influence this. Discomfort around the anal region or during bowel movements is a primary symptom for hemorrhoids. It is important to understand the causes of hemorrhoids to prevent future episodes.

Life circumstances are a factor that plays a part in hemorrhoids. One of these life events is pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnancy is a time in which a woman's body undergoes many changes. Women have an increased chance of having hemorrhoids while pregnant or in labor. The hormonal changes that occur while pregnant increase blood flow throughout the body to support the growing fetus. This increase in blood flow to the pelvis and the relaxing of supportive tissues cause an increase of pressure on blood vessels. While in labor, hemorrhoids may occur due to the intense pressure of pushing the baby through the birth canal around the rectum and anus.

Another prime cause for hemorrhoids is bowel movements. Along the lines of intense pressure and pushing, rushing to eliminate a bowel movement is another cause of hemorrhoids. The rush and increase of pressure on the rectal veins can cause pressure on the veins inside of the anal canal. Adults that experience constant episodes of diarrhea or constipation may also experience hemorrhoids as a result of this. Certain factors of the body can also increase the chances of hemorrhoids.

Overweight patients can also see an increase in the likelihood of getting hemorrhoids. Excessive weight around the abdomen and pelvis apply pressure to the pelvic veins. As the pressure increases, blood pools in veins and causes swelling. Medical conditions related to long-term heart and liver disease have also been proven to cause hemorrhoids due to the blood pool build-up in the abdomen and pelvic area. Episodes of hemorrhoids also increase with age due to the weakening of the tissues that support the veins inside the rectum and on the anus. In rare circumstances, a tumor in the pelvic area can also cause hemorrhoids.