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Cause of hemorrhoids
The exact cause of hemorrhoids has not been determined. However, several factors appear to contribute to their etiology. Patients with a low dietary fiber intake may be at risk for developing hemorrhoids.Typically, these patients’ stool is hard with very little bulk or moisture, thereby increasing the risk of straining during a bowel movement. This results in elevated pressure in the rectal vascular system which could lead to hemorrhoidal disorders.
Another population at risk for hemorrhoids are those individuals whose occupations require heavy lifting or prolonged standing. Heavy lifting may put additional strain on both the muscles and venous system in the anorectal area, making hemorrhoidal development a possibility. Prolonged standing may cause blood to pool in the rectal vascular system, especially since there are no venous valves in this area, thus predisposing workers to hemorrhoidal problems.
Decreased physical activity may also contribute to hemorrhoidal development. Less active individuals may experience a decline in muscle tone of the anorectal area, thereby making the patient prone to weak hemorrhoidal cushions. Other patients at risk for the development of hemorrhoids are those who overuse stimulant laxatives. These individuals are at risk of chronically straining the anal sphincters during defecation, which may result in symptomatology.
Finally, there may be a genetic link toward the development of hemorrhoids. However, whether this trend is due to a familial trait (e.g., weak blood vessels) or to similar environmental factors (e.g., dietary habits) is unclear.
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