Though many risk factors have been identified, the cause of hemorrhoids is still unknown. Some say that not eating enough fiber and always being constipated leads to hemorrhoids. Others blame prolonged sitting positions, pregnancy and pelvic tumors. There are patients who are genetically predisposed to hemorrhoids, having weak rectal veins. It is common knowledge that straining during bowel movements, a diet low in fiber and reduced muscle tone can also cause hemorrhoids to appear. Obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and vitamin deficiencies are also to blame.

There are many things that can cause hemorrhoids to appear, starting with sitting for prolonged periods of time and having poor bowel habits. If you are chronically constipated or you suffer from diarrhea, then you are at risk for hemorrhoids as well. The important thing to understand is that there are patients who are diagnosed with hemorrhoids without having any of these risk factors.

Studies have shown that even poor bathroom habits such as reading on the toilet can lead to swollen rectal veins. Maintaining a good hygiene is important but being too obsessive where cleaning the area is concerned might not be such a wise thing. Diet has also been linked to the appearance of hemorrhoids, most patients lacking the necessary amount of fiber and daily water intake. Processed food has changed the way our body functions and has increased the number of patients that are diagnosed with chronic constipation, which is followed later on by internal or external hemorrhoids. Constant straining increased abdominal pressure and weak walls of the rectal veins – these are just a few of the problems that result in the appearance of hemorrhoids.

Both aging and heredity are considered responsible for hemorrhoids. The increased pressure in the lower part of the rectum can also be caused by prolonged sitting, anal intercourse and more rarely, pelvic tumors. Aging is a serious risk factor, the tissues supporting the rectal veins becoming weaker and stretching as one gets older.

If you are delaying the bowel movements or on the contrary, you are rushing through defecation, then you should know that all this leads to increased pressure on the rectal veins. Being overweight adds pressure on the veins, causing them to become swollen and transform into hemorrhoids. Pregnancy has similar effects, especially in the last trimester when the fetus puts an enormous amount of pressure on the veins. Hemorrhoids might also occur during labor, the anal area being affected by the delivery of the baby.

Cirrhosis and other liver diseases, tumors of the abdomen and the pelvis represent other problems that may lead to hemorrhoids. The doctor will perform all the necessary exams, highlighting the cause of the enlarged rectal veins. Treatment will be both symptomatic and curative. The doctor will take into consideration the patient´s medical history and all the medical conditions he/she is suffering from. Further tests will be made to reveal potential complications of the hemorrhoids and post-operative care for the patient.