Cause of Hemorrhoids

What causes the hemorrhoids?

About half of the population in the U.S.A. will suffer from hemorrhoids at some point in life; for most, this will happen between ages 20 and 50. Although hemorrhoids occur in almost everyone, they become large and cause problems in only 4 percent of the general population.

Formation of hemorrhoids Veins in the rectum and anus are under considerable pressure whenever a stool is passed. Pushing or straining may cause veins in the rectal wall to lump, creating clusters of swollen, or dilated, veins called hemorrhoids. Internal hemorrhoids can form anywhere inside the anal canal, while external hemorrhoids are visible, or just below, the opening of the anus.

Researchers are not certain what causes hemorrhoids. "Weak" veins-leading to hemorrhoids and other varicose veins-may be inherited. It's likely that extreme abdominal pressure causes the veins to swell and become susceptible to irritation. Sources of this pressure include obesity, pregnancy, standing or sitting for long periods, liver disease, straining from constipation or diarrhea, coughing, sneezing, vomiting, and holding one's breath while straining to do physical labor.

Diet has a pivotal role in causing-and preventing-hemorrhoids. People who consistently eat a high-fiber diet are unlikely to get hemorrhoids, whereas those who prefer a diet high in refined foods can expect them. A low-fiber diet or inadequate fluid intake causes constipation, which contributes to hemorrhoids in two ways: It encourages straining to have a bowel movement and it also aggravates the hemorrhoids by producing hard stools that further irritate the swollen veins.

Before you take any further steps you should gather more information about the causes, diagnostic procedure, treatment and prevention of hemorrhoids.