How are hemorrhoids formed?

Hi Kelly,

Thanks for sharing your question on EmpowHER! Hemorrhoids are swollen veins and blood vessels that occur in the rectum or anus region. There are several things that can cause hemorrhoids to form.

Increased pressure in anus veins is a common cause of this and can happen during pregnancy, bowel movements, childbirth and obesity. According to WebMD, hemorrhoids are very common and nearly 40% of people in the U.S. will experience hemorrhoids at some time in their life.

Diet can also have a big impact. Usually, people who eat a lot of fiber are less likely to get them. People who have a diet consisting of lots of unhealthy, processed foods have a greater risk of hemorrhoids. 

Hemorrhoids can be affected by genetics. If you have a family history of hemorrhoids, you may have a greater chance of developing them. Although hemorrhoids can be affected by genetics, lifestyle choices have a greater impact on the formation of hemorrhoids.

To help prevent hemorrhoids, eat a high-fiber diet, exercise regularly, empty your bowels as soon as you feel the need to, and avoid overusing laxatives.

For more information on hemorrhoids, check out this article https://www.empowher.com/hemorrhoids/content/hemorrhoids-symptoms-causes-and-treatments about hemorrhoids symptoms, causes and treatments. You can also visit EmpowHER's hemorrhoids condition page here: https://www.empowher.com/condition/hemorrhoids.

Hope this helped give you some more information about hemorrhoids. Do you have a history of hemorrhoids in your family, Kelly?