Roughly 75% of Americans will experience hemorrhoid symptoms at some point in their lives, many of which are caused by internal hemorrhoids.1 These hemorrhoids can lead to uncomfortable symptoms like bleeding, anal itching, and general discomfort. If they prolapse, they can cause even more issues, such as pain and blood loss.
Understanding the risk factors for internal hemorrhoids can help prevent them from forming. While treatment may be necessary to get rid of them, knowing what makes someone more prone to developing internal hemorrhoids can help reduce the likelihood of recurrence. If you’re unsure whether you’re developing internal hemorrhoids, consult a specialist at USA Hemorrhoid Centers for a proper diagnosis and relief from painful symptoms.
What are Internal Hemorrhoids Risk Factors?
Hemorrhoids aren’t generally the result of one cause. Instead, it’s usually a combination of factors that lead to swollen, enlarged, and inflamed veins.
The following are the most common risk factors:
Chronic Constipation or Diarrhea
Constipation and diarrhea can strain the veins in the lower bowel and rectum. If these gastrointestinal issues happen often, they can eventually lead to hemorrhoids.
Consuming more fiber and improving gut health can help address chronic constipation.
Psyllium, a fiber supplement, is particularly useful for alleviating both constipation and diarrhea.2
Sedentary Lifestyle
Being sedentary, a lifestyle that involves little to no physical activity can contribute to constipation, making hemorrhoid disease worse or making someone prone to first-time hemorrhoids. On the other hand, moderate physical activity — 20 to 60 minutes from three to five days a week — can help reduce the risk of internal hemorrhoids.3
Obesity
Research has found a link between a high body mass index (BMI) and internal hemorrhoids.3 The extra weight puts pressure on the abdomen and veins in the rectum, increasing the chances of veins becoming swollen and inflamed.
Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a risk factor for hemorrhoids. The straining during bowel movements with an enlarged uterus and the relaxing effect of the hormone progesterone on rectal veins can both cause swelling.
It’s estimated that 25 to 35% of pregnant women develop hemorrhoids, usually during the last trimester or in the first month after delivery.4
Eating a Low-Fiber Diet
People who don’t consume enough fiber can have issues with chronic constipation, which makes a person more prone to internal hemorrhoids.
This lifestyle factor is one of the easiest to address. Simply adding a variety of foods that contain soluble and insoluble fiber, such as leafy green veggies, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, can reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
Age
Internal hemorrhoids are more likely with age because the tissues that support the veins in the rectum become weaker.
Heavy Lifting
Lifting heavy objects, whether during weight lifting or simply lifting items for work, can strain the abdominal area, increasing hemorrhoid risk.
Genetic Predisposition
People with family members who are prone to internal hemorrhoids are more likely to get them as well.
Other Factors That Increase the Risk of Developing Internal Hemorrhoids
Anything that puts pressure on the veins or supporting tissue can make someone more prone to hemorrhoids.
Sneezing or frequent coughing can put pressure on the abdominal area. So can anal intercourse. Also, conditions that cause inflammation in the gastrointestinal system, such as Crohn’s disease and inflammatory bowel syndrome (IBS), can increase risk.
When to See a Doctor
Internal hemorrhoids can last for years if they aren’t treated. They can also get worse over time, leading to more bleeding and discomfort. If you have symptoms of internal hemorrhoids for more than one week, consider setting up an appointment with a hemorrhoid specialist.
The hemorrhoid doctors at USA Hemorrhoid Centers can help you get relief from symptoms with a non-surgical hemorrhoid procedure and a personalized treatment plan. Find a location near you and book an appointment online today.
Sources
- Fontem RF, Eyvazzadeh D. Internal Hemorrhoid. [Updated 2023 Jul 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-.
- Cao, H., Liu, X., An, Y., Zhou, G., Liu, Y., Xu, M., Dong, W., Wang, S., Yan, F., Jiang, K., & Wang, B. (2017). Dysbiosis contributes to chronic constipation development via regulation of serotonin transporter in the intestine. Scientific reports, 7(1), 10322.
- McRorie, J. W., Jr, & McKeown, N. M. (2017). Understanding the Physics of Functional Fibers in the Gastrointestinal Tract: An Evidence-Based Approach to Resolving Enduring Misconceptions about Insoluble and Soluble Fiber. Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, 117(2), 251–264.
- De Marco, S., & Tiso, D. (2021). Lifestyle and Risk Factors in Hemorrhoidal Disease. Frontiers in surgery, 8, 729166.
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