Many wonder why do people get hemorrhoids, what is the cause of hemorrhoids? Well, here is the answer. We all have veins in our body, and we all have hemorrhoidal veins in our anal area. Sometimes, these veins get swollen and inflamed. This is what most people consider hemorrhoids. Often times, these hemorrhoids get irritated, painful and even bleed. But the question is why does this happen? Hemorrhoids are often caused by an increase of pressure within the veins of the anus. There are several things that could increase the pressure down below.
In women, a leading cause of hemorrhoids is pregnancy. As a woman’s pregnancy continues, it is normal for her to gain weight. This weight can be over the whole body but is often centralized and within the abdomen. The pressure of the baby on the blood vessels within the stomach can also put pressure on the rectum; this causes an inflammation and swelling of the hemorrhoidal veins. Leading to large, often prolapsed, hemorrhoids. Unfortunately, it doesn’t end there, if she is having a natural birth (not cesarean section), the pressure of labor and delivery of the baby can cause even more pressure on the veins, worsening them and causing pain and bleeding.
Obesity is also a leading cause of hemorrhoids, both internal and external. Similarly to pregnancy, the added weight on the body often puts pressure on the veins within the anus, leading to irritation, pain and bleeding. Often times, obesity and poor diets go hand in hand. If you are eating a high fat, low fiber diet, this could lead to obesity. In addition, it could lead to constipation. Constipation adds a mechanical reason for irritation of hemorrhoids as hard stool is often difficult to pass. In addition to mechanical irritation, straining with passing a constipated stool also adds increased pressure. This could lead to increased pain and sometimes bleeding of already swollen and irritated hemorrhoids.
In contrast to constipation, chronic or profuse diarrhea may also lead to problems with hemorrhoidal flares. Although one may not be straining to have a bowel movement, the constant irritation to hemorrhoidal veins from diarrhea is often just what it takes to flare the irritated veins, often causing protrusion of the hemorrhoids. Added fiber to the diet is sometimes necessary to add bulk to stools of those individuals with chronic diarrhea.
Your career choice may also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids. If you have a desk job where you have limited ability to stand, walk around and change position, you may be at risk for developing hemorrhoids. Also, standing for long periods of time can also increase your risk. Factory line workers, who stand in the same place with minimal movement for long periods of time, are also at risk. It is important if you do have a career with similar environments, it is important to try to change positions, sit or stand for a break on your hemorrhoidal veins.
Although many of the causes of hemorrhoids are temporary, there are also people who have hemorrhoids for reasons that are beyond their control. Age, sex, family history and personal history of varicose veins may also put individuals at risk.
Internal Hemorrhoids and external hemorrhoids can be very uncomfortable and bothersome to many people every day. If you can watch your diet, manage your weight, and keep your bowel habits regular, you may be a happier, healthier and have a less irritated bottom.
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