Why People Ignore or Misunderstand Their Hemorrhoids
Despite how common hemorrhoids are, most people either don’t realize they have them, feel too embarrassed to talk about them, or fear seeking treatment. Here’s why:
1. Lack of Awareness: Many Don’t Recognize Their Symptoms
A major reason people don’t seek treatment is they don’t realize their discomfort is due to hemorrhoids. Many mistake symptoms like itching, swelling, or rectal bleeding for digestive issues or assume it’s nothing serious.
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Nearly 40% of individuals with hemorrhoids never seek medical advice, often because they misidentify their symptoms. (Source: American Gastroenterological Association)
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Rectal bleeding is one of the most ignored symptoms, even though it’s a clear indicator of hemorrhoids or other treatable conditions.
"I thought the discomfort I had was just a digestive issue. I didn’t realize it was hemorrhoids until I finally asked my doctor." — Rachel, 41
2. Social Stigma: Hemorrhoids Are Common, But Nobody Talks About Them
Despite affecting over 50% of adults at some point in their lives, hemorrhoids remain a taboo topic. People hesitate to discuss them—even with doctors—because they feel embarrassed.
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A survey found that nearly 70% of people avoid talking about hemorrhoids, even when they experience symptoms. (Source: National Institute of Health)
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Many feel shame or discomfort discussing personal health issues, leading to unnecessary suffering.
"I was too embarrassed to even mention it to my doctor. Turns out, it’s one of the most common things they see!" — David, 52
3. Misconceptions About Causes: The Truth Behind What Really Causes Hemorrhoids
A common myth is that hemorrhoids are caused by poor hygiene or unhealthy habits, when in reality, factors like genetics, diet, and lifestyle play a much bigger role.
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Up to 70% of hemorrhoid cases are linked to hereditary factors, meaning many people are predisposed regardless of their habits. (Source: National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse)
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Chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, and high-stress lifestyles all contribute to hemorrhoid development—not just diet or hygiene.
"I blamed myself for years, thinking I had done something wrong. Then I found out it runs in my family." — Melissa, 36
4. Fear of Medical Treatment: Most Cases Don’t Require Surgery
One of the biggest reasons people avoid getting help is the misconception that hemorrhoid treatment means painful surgery. In reality, most cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments.
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Only 10% of hemorrhoid cases require surgical intervention, meaning the vast majority can be treated non-invasively. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)
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Simple treatments like fiber intake, sitz baths, and topical creams can significantly reduce symptoms without medical procedures.
"I put off seeing a doctor for months because I was terrified of surgery. Turns out, I just needed some simple changes to feel better." — Josh, 47
5. Normalization of Discomfort: People Accept Symptoms as ‘Just Part of Aging’
Many people assume that symptoms like itching, swelling, or mild rectal pain are just normal inconveniences rather than signs of a treatable condition.
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Over 60% of adults assume rectal discomfort is a natural part of aging rather than recognizing it as a medical issue. (Source: Mayo Clinic)
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Ignoring symptoms can make hemorrhoids worse over time, leading to more discomfort and a greater need for treatment.
"I figured everyone my age deals with this kind of discomfort. I didn’t realize there were things I could do to make it go away." — Stephanie, 58
Breaking the Cycle: Why Talking About Hemorrhoids Matters
The more we normalize the conversation around hemorrhoids, the easier it becomes to prevent and treat them. No one should have to suffer in silence because of stigma or misinformation.
At Norms, we’re committed to educating, providing effective relief, and changing the way people think about hemorrhoids. Because when we talk openly about health, we all benefit.