The Root Causes of Hemorrhoids: Why They Happen and How to Reduce Your – Norms

Beyond the Basics: Why Hemorrhoids Are More Common Than Ever

Now that we’ve covered how hemorrhoids form on a physiological level (see our article on the physiological causes of hemorrhoids [insert link]), it’s time to talk about the bigger picture—why they happen in the first place.

It’s not just about straining too hard once or twice. Long-term habits, modern lifestyle factors, and health trends are making hemorrhoids more common than ever. While some causes—like diet and stress—are within your control, others—such as aging and pregnancy—are unavoidable.

This article breaks down the leading external causes of hemorrhoids and why they seem to be more prevalent today than in past generations.

📊 Key Statistics:

Nearly 75% of adults will experience hemorrhoids at some point. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)
Constipation is responsible for 40% of symptomatic hemorrhoid cases, while prolonged sitting accounts for another 25%. (Source: American Gastroenterological Association)
Obesity increases the risk of hemorrhoids by up to 40%. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

The 6 Biggest External Causes of Hemorrhoids

1. Chronic Stress and Digestive Health

How Stress Triggers Hemorrhoids:

Stress disrupts digestion, slowing down bowel movements and leading to constipation.
Elevated cortisol levels can increase inflammation, worsening hemorrhoid symptoms.
People under high stress are 2.4x more likely to develop chronic digestive issues, including hemorrhoids. (Source: American Psychological Association)

💡 Prevention Tip:

Incorporate stress management techniques like exercise, mindfulness, and gut-friendly eating habits to improve digestion.

"I had a brutal deadline at work, and suddenly my stomach was in knots. Next thing I knew, I was straining in the bathroom and dealing with my first hemorrhoid." — Mark, 37

2. Poor Dietary Habits and Low Fiber Intake

How Diet Contributes to Hemorrhoids:

Fiber keeps stools soft and easy to pass, preventing excessive straining.
Modern diets are low in fiber, leading to hard stools and constipation.
Only 5% of Americans get the recommended daily fiber intake. (Source: USDA)

💡 Prevention Tip:

Aim for 25-30g of fiber per day from sources like whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

"I used to live on fast food, and I never really thought about fiber. After my first flare-up, I made some changes—and trust me, my body thanked me." — Jake, 42

3. Rising Obesity Rates and Increased Abdominal Pressure

How Excess Weight Affects Hemorrhoids:

Extra body weight puts constant pressure on the lower veins, making hemorrhoids more likely.
Obesity rates have tripled globally since 1975, contributing to increased cases of hemorrhoids. (Source: World Health Organization)
Obesity increases hemorrhoid risk by up to 40%. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

💡 Prevention Tip:

Maintaining a healthy weight through balanced nutrition and exercise can reduce pressure on rectal veins.

"I started noticing hemorrhoids after gaining weight during quarantine. A few lifestyle tweaks helped me get both under control." — Sarah, 39

4. Aging and Weakened Connective Tissues

Why Aging Increases the Risk of Hemorrhoids:

As we age, our connective tissues weaken, making veins more prone to swelling.
By 2030, 1 in 5 people in the U.S. will be over 65, a prime age for hemorrhoid development. (Source: National Institute on Aging)
Half of people over 50 experience symptomatic hemorrhoids. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

💡 Prevention Tip:

Support vascular health with hydration, fiber, and regular movement to maintain circulation.

"I never had issues with this in my 30s, but now that I'm in my 50s, it's a different story. My doctor told me it’s just part of aging, but there are ways to manage it." — Tom, 55

5. Pregnancy & Postpartum Hemorrhoids

How Pregnancy Contributes to Hemorrhoids:

Increased pressure from the growing uterus slows circulation in the lower body.
Hormonal changes affect digestion, leading to constipation.
Labor and delivery put extreme strain on rectal veins, often worsening hemorrhoids postpartum.
Up to 85% of women experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy or postpartum. (Source: American Pregnancy Association)

💡 Prevention Tip:

Pregnant women can reduce their risk by staying hydrated, eating fiber-rich foods, and avoiding prolonged sitting.

"Pregnancy was beautiful. Hemorrhoids? Not so much. Thankfully, my OB had great advice for managing them." — Rachel, 33

6. Constipating Medications (Opioids & Weight Loss Drugs)

How Certain Medications Increase Hemorrhoid Risk:

Opioids slow down digestion, leading to hard stools and straining.
New weight loss drugs (GLP-1 agonists like Ozempic) also slow gastric emptying, increasing constipation.
Over 50% of opioid users experience constipation. (Source: Journal of Pain Research)

💡 Prevention Tip:

If taking medications that cause constipation, increase water and fiber intake to offset digestive side effects.

"I was on pain meds after surgery and didn’t realize they could back me up this much. I learned the hard way to stay on top of fiber and hydration." — Kevin, 46

Final Thoughts: How to Reduce Your Risk

While some causes of hemorrhoids are unavoidable, others—like diet, stress, and weight management—are within your control.

If you want to understand the physiological process of how hemorrhoids develop, check out our article on the mechanics of hemorrhoids [insert link].
Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in prevention. Focus on: