How Chronic Constipation Can Lead to Painful Hemorrhoids and How to Prevent It

Chronic constipation is a common condition that affects many people around the world (4.4% according to an estimation¹). It is characterized by infrequent bowel movements, difficulty passing stools, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation. While the condition is not usually life-threatening, it can be uncomfortable and can lead to other complications, such as painful hemorrhoids.²

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectal area that can cause discomfort, pain, and bleeding. They can occur internally or externally and can be caused by a variety of factors, including straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, obesity, and aging. Chronic constipation is also an important risk factor for the development of hemorrhoids.³

What are the causes of hemorrhoids

When a person experiences chronic constipation, they may strain during bowel movements, which can cause increased pressure on the veins in the rectal area. Over time, this pressure can cause these veins to become swollen and inflamed, leading to hemorrhoids. The longer the constipation persists, the more likely it is that hemorrhoids will develop.

Moreover, chronic constipation can lead to the formation of hard stools, which can be difficult and painful to pass. The straining and pushing required to pass these stools can cause trauma to the rectal area, leading to the development of hemorrhoids. The constant irritation of the rectal area due to the presence of hard stools can also make existing hemorrhoids worse, leading to further pain and discomfort.

Furthermore, people who suffer from chronic constipation are also more likely to spend extended periods of time sitting on the toilet, which can increase the pressure on the rectal area and lead to the development of hemorrhoids. Sitting on the toilet for long periods of time can also cause the muscles in the pelvic floor to weaken, making it more difficult to pass stools and increasing the likelihood of developing hemorrhoids.⁴

How to prevent chronic constipation and hemorrhoids

There are several steps that people can take to prevent chronic constipation and reduce their risk of developing hemorrhoids.

• Eating a diet that is high in fiber can help to soften stools and make them easier to pass.⁴
• Drinking plenty of water can also help to keep stools soft and prevent constipation.
• Regular exercise is helpful in preventing chronic constipation and hemorrhoids. Physical activity can help to stimulate bowel movements and improve overall digestive function.
• Additionally, avoiding sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time and avoiding straining during bowel movements can also help to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.

If you are already suffering from hemorrhoids due to chronic constipation, there are several treatment options available, such as venotonic oral medications.

In severe cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove hemorrhoids or repair damage to the rectal area. However, surgery is usually only considered in special cases. To know what the best treatment choices for you are please consult a health care professional.

In conclusion, chronic constipation can be an important risk factor for the development of painful hemorrhoids. By taking steps to prevent constipation and promote healthy bowel movements, people can reduce their risk of developing hemorrhoids and other complications associated with chronic constipation. Consult your doctor  so you can have the best advice for your situation!