Chronic stress and anxiety can disrupt digestion, leading to irregular bowel movements and increased hemorrhoid risk. Stress-related gut issues affect over 60% of adults. (Source: American Psychological Association)

"I never connected my stress and stomach problems to hemorrhoids, but once I started managing my anxiety, things got a lot better." — Kevin, 44

Modern diets are lower in fiber than ever before, contributing to chronic constipation. 

The average American consumes only 16g of fiber daily, far below the recommended 25-30g. (Source: USDA)

"I always thought I ate pretty well, but after struggling with hemorrhoids, I realized my diet was missing something—fiber. Who knew a little more roughage could make such a difference?" — Jenna, 38

Jobs have become more sedentary, with over 80% of workers sitting for most of their day, which increases the risk of hemorrhoids. (Source: Occupational Health Journal)

"I spend eight hours at my desk and then go home and sit on the couch. It wasn’t until my doctor pointed it out that I realized my lifestyle was contributing to my hemorrhoid problem." — Sam, 42

As people age, the connective tissue in the rectal area weakens, making hemorrhoids more likely. 

• The peak incidence occurs between ages 45 to 65 years. (Source: American Journal of Gastroenterology)

"I thought hemorrhoids were just a young person's issue, something that went away quickly. But at 55, I realized they stick around—and no one was talking about it." — Martin, 55

Up to 40% of pregnant women experience hemorrhoids due to increased pressure on blood vessels. (Source: Cleveland Clinic)

"Pregnancy was hard enough—then I had to deal with hemorrhoids too. I wish someone had warned me beforehand!" — Sarah, 33

Those with better access to healthcare are more likely to receive a diagnosis, contributing to higher recorded prevalence in wealthier demographics. 

Higher socioeconomic status is associated with increased prevalence. (Source: National Institute of Health)

"I ignored my symptoms for years because I didn’t know what was normal. When I finally saw a doctor, I realized how common hemorrhoids actually are." — Luis, 47

Many people don’t recognize their symptoms as hemorrhoids or mistake them for other conditions. This leads to unnecessary suffering and delayed treatment. 

Nearly 40% of individuals with hemorrhoids never seek medical advice. (Source: American Gastroenterological Association)

"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

Conversations about hemorrhoids often make people feel embarrassed or ashamed, even though over half of adults will experience them at some point. (Source: Mayo Clinic)

"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

Some people believe hemorrhoids are only caused by poor hygiene or unhealthy habits, when in reality, genetics, diet, and even stress play a major role. 

Studies show that up to 70% of cases are linked to hereditary factors. (Source: National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse)

"I blamed myself for years, thinking I had done something wrong. Then I found out it runs in my family." — Melissa, 36

Many assume that hemorrhoid treatment means painful surgery, when in fact, most cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and OTC treatments. 

Only 10% of hemorrhoid cases require surgical intervention. (Source: American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons)

"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

People assume that symptoms like itching, swelling, or mild pain are just normal inconveniences rather than signs of a treatable condition.

"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

These are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements. Some people experience prolapse, where the hemorrhoid extends outside the anus but retracts on its own or needs to be manually pushed back in.

These can be felt as small lumps around the anus and may cause irritation, pain, and swelling. In some cases, a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid) can form, leading to severe discomfort.

Internal hemorrhoids can often be managed with dietary changes and stool softeners, whereas external hemorrhoids may require topical treatments or minor procedures.

If left untreated, internal hemorrhoids may lead to chronic bleeding, anemia, or prolapse, while external hemorrhoids can develop painful blood clots.

Understanding the type of hemorrhoid helps people adjust their lifestyle, whether that means increasing fiber intake, improving hygiene, or avoiding prolonged sitting.