What causes hemorrhoids?
Disease description:
I am a taxi driver. For the past few days, I've been experiencing constipation—going to the bathroom takes a long time, my stools are dry and hard, and sometimes there's blood streaks. After a hospital checkup, the doctor diagnosed me with hemorrhoids. Could you please explain what causes hemorrhoids?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Li Jingxiang
There are several causes of hemorrhoids, primarily including the following aspects:
1. Genetic factors: Individuals with a family history of hemorrhoids have an increased risk of developing the condition due to hereditary influences.
2. Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Prolonged sitting or standing, irregular bowel movements, and excessive physical strain can impair blood circulation in the anal area, increasing the risk of hemorrhoids.
3. Improper diet: Regular consumption of spicy, greasy, irritating foods, or alcohol can easily lead to constipation or diarrhea, thereby triggering hemorrhoids.
4. Physical factors: Conditions such as pregnancy, obesity, and aging may contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. For example, during pregnancy, the uterus compresses the rectal veins; in obese individuals, the anal veins bear greater pressure.
5. Disease-related factors: Certain chronic diseases, such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema, may increase abdominal pressure and cause pelvic congestion, leading to hemorrhoids.
