Hemorrhoids develop primarily due to increased pressure in the lower rectum, which causes the veins around the anus or in the rectum to swell and become irritated. Common causes of this increased pressure include:
- Straining during bowel movements, often due to constipation or diarrhea.
- Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet.
- Pregnancy and childbirth, where the growing fetus and uterus put pressure on pelvic veins.
- Aging, which weakens the connective tissues that support hemorrhoidal veins.
- Obesity and heavy lifting, which increase abdominal pressure.
- A low-fiber diet leading to constipation.
- Chronic diarrhea or constipation.
- Genetics and family history may also increase susceptibility.
These factors cause the normal anal veins and tissues to swell, sometimes leading to bleeding, pain, or itching. Hemorrhoids can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus)
. In summary, hemorrhoids result from anything that increases pressure on the veins in the lower rectum and anus, causing them to enlarge and become symptomatic.
