What Is The Main Cause Of Hemorrhoids?

May 6th, 2026

10:31 AM

Hemorrhoids are common, but that doesn’t make them any less frustrating. Symptoms like itching, pain, swelling, or rectal bleeding can interfere with daily life, especially when flare-ups keep returning.

The main cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the rectal area, but several everyday habits and health factors can contribute to that pressure over time. Learning what may be triggering your symptoms can help you prevent flare-ups and recognize when it may be time to seek medical care.

Understanding Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins that occur in the legs. They can be:

Internal hemorrhoids, which form inside the rectum
External hemorrhoids, which develop under the skin around the anus

Both types are caused by increased pressure on the veins in the rectal area, which is the central factor behind most cases.

Understanding Hemorrhoid Types

Is Increased Rectal Pressure the Main Cause of Hemorrhoids?

The primary cause of hemorrhoids is prolonged or repeated pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. When these veins are under strain, they can stretch, weaken, and swell—leading to hemorrhoids.

This pressure doesn’t usually come from a single event. Instead, it builds up over time due to everyday habits, health conditions, or life stages.

Common Factors That Increase Pressure and Cause Hemorrhoids

1. Chronic Constipation and Straining

Straining during bowel movements is one of the most common contributors to hemorrhoids. Hard stools require more effort to pass, placing extra pressure on rectal veins.

Low fiber intake, dehydration, and delayed bathroom habits can all worsen constipation.

2. Prolonged Sitting—Especially on the Toilet

Sitting for long periods, particularly on the toilet, increases pressure in the anal and rectal area. This can happen when people:

Spend extended time scrolling on phones in the bathroom
Sit for long hours at work without movement

Over time, this constant pressure can contribute to hemorrhoid development.

3. Pregnancy and Childbirth

During pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on pelvic veins, slowing blood return and increasing vein swelling. Hormonal changes can also weaken vein walls.

Vaginal childbirth further increases pressure during labor, making hemorrhoids common during and after pregnancy.

4. Obesity or Excess Body Weight

Carrying excess weight—especially in the abdominal area—adds constant pressure to the pelvic and rectal veins. This makes hemorrhoids more likely and can worsen existing symptoms.

5. Chronic Diarrhea

While constipation is a common trigger, frequent diarrhea can also irritate and inflame rectal tissues, leading to vein swelling and hemorrhoids.

6. Aging and Weakened Vein Tissue

As we age, the tissues that support veins in the rectum and anus can weaken and stretch. This makes hemorrhoids more likely, even without significant lifestyle changes.

Less Common, but Contributing Causes of Hemorrhoids:

Heavy lifting without proper technique
Family history of vein disease
Poor circulation or vein conditions
Low physical activity levels

These factors can worsen vein health and increase susceptibility to hemorrhoids.

Hemorrhoid Symptoms

When Hemorrhoids Become a Medical Concern

Mild hemorrhoids often improve with lifestyle changes, but persistent or worsening symptoms should not be ignored. You should consider medical evaluation if you experience:

Rectal bleeding
Ongoing pain or discomfort
Swelling that does not improve
Symptoms that interfere with daily life

Because symptoms of hemorrhoids can overlap with other conditions, proper diagnosis is important.

Treating the Cause of Hemorrhoids – Not Just the Symptoms

Many people focus on managing the symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as pain, itching, swelling, or bleeding, without addressing what may be contributing to the problem in the first place. While creams, wipes, and sitz baths may provide temporary relief, symptoms can continue to return if the underlying pressure on the rectal veins is not reduced.

Because the main cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure in the rectal area, long-term management often involves identifying and addressing contributing factors such as chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, obesity, or a low-fiber diet. Lifestyle changes can help reduce flare-ups, but patients may require medical treatment depending on the severity of their hemorrhoids.

That’s why getting an accurate diagnosis is important. A hemorrhoid specialist can evaluate your symptoms, determine the type and severity of your hemorrhoids, and create a personalized treatment plan based on your condition and overall health.

For patients with persistent or advanced hemorrhoids, Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE) may be recommended. HAE is a minimally invasive, non-surgical procedure that works by reducing blood flow to the hemorrhoids, helping shrink the swollen tissue and relieve symptoms. By targeting the blood vessels feeding the hemorrhoids, HAE focuses on treating the condition itself — not just masking the symptoms.

Early diagnosis and treatment may help prevent hemorrhoids from progressing and improve your quality of life before symptoms become more severe.

Learn More about Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization

Key Takeaway on Main Causes of Hemorrhoids

The main cause of hemorrhoids is increased pressure on the veins of the rectum and anus, most often from straining, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or excess weight. Understanding and addressing this pressure is the first step toward long‑term relief.

If hemorrhoid symptoms persist or return frequently, professional evaluation can help determine the most appropriate treatment path.

Schedule a Consultation Online

FAqs on the Main Cause of Hemorrhoids

What increases the risk of developing hemorrhoids?

Several factors can increase the risk of hemorrhoids, including chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, obesity, heavy lifting, and a low-fiber diet.

Can sitting too long cause hemorrhoids?

Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the rectal veins and contribute to hemorrhoid development or worsening symptoms.

Do hemorrhoids go away on their own?

Mild hemorrhoids may improve with lifestyle changes, increased fiber intake, hydration, and avoiding straining. However, persistent or severe hemorrhoids may require medical evaluation and treatment.

How can I help prevent hemorrhoids?

You can help reduce your risk of hemorrhoids by eating a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, exercising regularly, avoiding prolonged sitting, and not delaying bowel movements.

When should I see a hemorrhoid specialist?

You should see a specialist if you experience persistent pain, bleeding, swelling, itching, or hemorrhoid symptoms that interfere with daily activities.

Have a Question? Give Us a Call