Understanding Hemorrhoids: Causes and Prevention Tips

Hemorrhoids affect millions of Americans every year, causing discomfort, pain, and disruption to daily life. At the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, our board-certified specialists are committed to helping you understand, treat, and prevent this common condition with the latest evidence-based medical guidance.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum or anus. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). While they may be painless at first, they can lead to itching, discomfort, bleeding, and even prolapse if left untreated.

Causes of Hemorrhoids: Backed by Science

While the exact cause of hemorrhoids can vary, scientific studies have pointed to several common risk factors and mechanisms:

  1. Straining During Bowel Movements
    Excessive straining leads to high pressure in the anal canal, which causes blood vessels to swell and form hemorrhoids (Graham-Stewart, 1963).

  2. Low-Fiber Diet
    Diets lacking fiber result in hard stools and constipation, both of which increase the risk of hemorrhoids (Awadh et al., 2021) (Burkitt & Graham-Stewart, 1975).

  3. Prolonged Time on the Toilet
    Spending too long during defecation leads to venous engorgement, increasing hemorrhoid development (Garg & Singh, 2017).

  4. Pregnancy and Aging
    Hormonal changes and pressure from the uterus during pregnancy, along with weakening of rectal tissues with age, are significant contributors (Annisa, 2022) (Poškus et al., 2022).

  5. Genetics and Defecation Habits
    Family history, improper defecation posture, and longer time spent in the restroom have all been linked to higher hemorrhoid risk (Tevin et al., 2019).

How to Prevent Hemorrhoids: Expert-Recommended Tips

Fortunately, most hemorrhoids can be prevented with simple, consistent lifestyle modifications:

  1. Adopt the TONE Method
    TONE =

    • Three minutes max on the toilet

    • Once daily bowel movement

    • No straining

    • Enough fiber
      This method has been proven effective in stopping progression and reducing symptoms of hemorrhoids (Garg & Singh, 2017).

  2. Eat a High-Fiber Diet
    Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes in your meals. Fiber softens stools and reduces pressure on anal veins (Awadh et al., 2021).

  3. Stay Hydrated
    Drink plenty of water to avoid constipation and keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.

  4. Exercise Regularly
    Physical activity stimulates bowel function and helps prevent obesity, another risk factor for hemorrhoids (Awadh et al., 2021).

  5. Practice Controlled Defecation
    Controlled defecation techniques—like tightening the anal sphincter between urges—can significantly reduce the risk of severe hemorrhoids (Marx, 1993).

How the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay Can Help

At the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay, our expert team provides personalized care using the latest treatments in hemorrhoid prevention, diagnosis, and management. Whether you're dealing with occasional discomfort or recurring symptoms, we offer both non-surgical and surgical options tailored to your needs.

Our compassionate approach ensures patient comfort and successful outcomes. Don’t let embarrassment or misinformation prevent you from seeking expert help—early intervention is key.

Hemorrhoids are common but preventable. By adopting healthier habits and seeking professional care when needed, you can reduce your risk and improve your quality of life. Trust the experienced physicians at the Colorectal Clinic of Tampa Bay to guide you with compassion and clinical excellence.

Works Cited

  • Awadh, Z., Safwan, A., Aljibreen, S. A., Alsadah, M. O., Aldossary, A. S., Obaidat, M. I., Kremli, A., & Alslymi, M. M. (2021). Approaches of Hemorrhoids Prevention: Systematic Literature Review. Link

  • Graham-Stewart, C. W. (1963). What causes hemorrhoids? Diseases of the Colon & Rectum. Link

  • Burkitt, D., & Graham-Stewart, C. W. (1975). Haemorrhoids—postulated pathogenesis and proposed prevention. Postgraduate Medical Journal. Link

  • Garg, P., & Singh, P. (2017). Adequate dietary fiber supplement and TONE can help avoid surgery in most patients with advanced hemorrhoids. Minerva Gastroenterologica e Dietologica. Link

  • Marx, F. A. (1993). Prevention of hemorrhoids by controlled defecation. Diseases of the Colon & Rectum. Link

  • Annisa, B. W. (2022). Diagnosis and Management of Hemorrhoids. Unram Medical Journal. Link

  • Poškus, D., Sabonytė, R., & Balsaitienė, D. (2022). Preventing hemorrhoids during pregnancy: a multicenter, randomized clinical trial. BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth. Link

  • Tevin, L. R., Arifin, F., & Pramono, A. (2019). The Correlation Between Family History, Constipation, Defecation Position, And Defecation Time And Hemorrhoid. Link