What Causes Hemorrhoids

This medical condition called hemorrhoids can make even the most beautiful face in the world ugly no thanks to the pain it causes. Those suffering from swelling hemorrhoids can expect to feel a burning sensation in their rectum or anus, itchiness and a general feeling of unease and discomfort. If you know what causes hemorrhoids then you will be in a better position to look for a cure.

Prevalence of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids is actually present in everyone so you cannot wash your hands clean and claim exemption. However, not all hemorrhoids cause problems. It is only when these hemorrhoids swell and enlarge that they start making life hell for those who have them.

While all people have hemorrhoids only a few will suffer from the problems associated with a swelling hemorrhoids. However, the prevalence of problematic hemorrhoids increase among people aged 45 and 65 years old. At 50 years old, almost every adult can already experience itching and bleeding which may be a signal of a hemorrhoids problem.

Here are some causes of hemorrhoids:

Genetics

If you’re parents have hemorrhoids then chances are you have inherited some of the physical characteristics that can lead to hemorrhoids such as vein walls that easily get weak. Couple genetics with bad toilet habits like straining as well as lifestyle conditions and you have a hemorrhoid problem waiting at hand.

Western Diet

The Western Diet is rich in:

• fastfood fats
• animal protein
• refined flour
• processed food

This type of diet has been identified as one of the top reasons why most Americans suffer from problematic hemorrhoids. If you don’t believe this then look at other cultures that go for high-fiber diet such as Asians and Africans and you will see the difference.

If you stick to a diet that lacks fiber then you are probably among those who constantly strain whenever then have to pass stool. You are most often constipated and have a hard time moving your bowel. Research shows that a typical Westerner passes only 150 grams of stool within three to five days after eating while Asians and Africans pass up to 500 grams of stool in just 35 hours after eating.

Constipation

Constipation is a common condition among those who have to strain to move their bowels. The general rule is that if you have to read or do something else while waiting to pass waste then you might be waiting and straining too long. If diarrhea makes you uncomfortable because of the frequency of stool you have to pass then constipation will make you twice as uncomfortable because of the lack of stool and the effort you have to exert just to pass a small amount of waste. Ironically, too much laxatives can cause constipation.

Pregnancy

If you’re pregnant then you are at high risk of developing hemorrhoids. With extra pressure on your hemorrhoidal veins you can expect to feel vague discomfort in the anus and even pass some amount of blood in the stool. The risk is greater the heavier you get when you are pregnant as it puts a lot of strain in your veins.

Diseases

Diseases can also lead to hemorrhoids problems. If you have these illnesses then most probably you are at risk of developing problematic hemorrhoids.

• Rectal cancer usually leads to a false desire to pass waste so you have the tendency to go to the bathroom and strain.
• Liver enlargement, which is fairly common among alcohol abusers, creates pressure on the veins of the hemorrhoids thereby resulting to swelling.
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome can also interfere with the normal movement of the bowels and cause constipation.

You have to know what causes hemorrhoids in order to get the appropriate treatment for your ailment. It is thus best to consult with your doctor before you use any hemorrhoids medication to make sure you get a proper diagnosis and the proper treatment for hemorrhoids.