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Can Hemorrhoids Cause Constipation? What You Should Know

Hemorrhoid.com By Hemorrhoid.com | June 18, 2025

If every trip to the bathroom feels like a struggle, and you’re dealing with pain, bleeding, or a lingering sense of pressure, you’re not alone. Constipation and hemorrhoids often go hand-in-hand, creating a cycle that’s hard to break.

Straining to pass hard stools puts pressure on the rectal veins, one of the leading causes of hemorrhoids. At the same time, swollen hemorrhoids can make bowel movements even more uncomfortable, which can lead to further constipation.

In this blog, we’ll break down how chronic constipation can cause hemorrhoids, how hemorrhoids can make constipation worse, and what you can do to manage both.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Illustration of hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are swollen, inflamed veins in the rectum or anus that can cause discomfort, especially during bowel movements. They’re a common issue, often linked to constipation, straining, or sitting for long periods. While not usually serious, hemorrhoids can lead to ongoing pain and irritation if not managed properly.

Key Facts About Hemorrhoids:

Common symptoms include:

How Does Constipation Occur?

Common causes of constipation

Constipation develops when stool moves too slowly through the digestive tract, causing it to become dry, hard, and difficult to pass. This can lead to infrequent or painful bowel movements and is a major contributor to hemorrhoid flare-ups.

Common Causes of Constipation

Do Hemorrhoids Cause Constipation?

Yes. Hemorrhoids and constipation are closely linked, often creating a cycle where one condition worsens the other. Straining to pass hard or infrequent stools during constipation puts excess pressure on the veins in your lower rectum and anus, which can lead to or aggravate hemorrhoids.

How Constipation Triggers Hemorrhoids?

Constipation doesn’t just make bowel movements uncomfortable, it plays a direct role in causing and worsening hemorrhoids. Here’s how it happens:

How Hemorrhoids Can Make Constipation Worse?

While constipation can cause hemorrhoids, the reverse is also true; hemorrhoids can make constipation more difficult to manage. Here’s how:

Breaking this cycle starts with managing both conditions, relieving hemorrhoid symptoms while addressing the root causes of constipation.

How to Effectively Manage Hemorrhoids to Prevent Constipation?

Effective management of Hemorrhoids

What to do when you have hemorrhoids and constipation? Managing hemorrhoids isn’t just about easing pain, it’s also about preventing the constipation that causes or worsens them. A few simple lifestyle shifts can help reduce pressure on rectal veins, promote regular bowel movements, and stop the cycle before it starts.

1. Eat a High-Fiber Diet

Fiber softens stool and adds bulk, making it easier to pass without straining. Aim for:

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water, at least 6–8 glasses a day, to keep stool soft and support regular bowel movements.

3. Get Moving

Regular physical activity stimulates digestion and helps prevent sluggish bowel function. Even a 20–30 minute walk daily can make a difference.

4. Don’t Delay the Urge

Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge. Holding it in leads to harder stools and increases strain during bowel movements.

5. Use the Bathroom the Right Way

Avoid sitting on the toilet for long periods. Consider using a footstool to elevate your feet slightly; it helps align your body for easier elimination.

6. Soothe Hemorrhoid Discomfort

Manage pain and swelling with:

7. Avoid Overuse of Laxatives

While fiber supplements or occasional stool softeners can help, relying too much on laxatives can make your digestive system dependent and less efficient over time.

8. Talk to a Healthcare Provider

If hemorrhoids or constipation persist, seek medical advice. There may be underlying issues that need attention, or your hemorrhoids treatment plan may need to be adjusted.

Taking proactive steps to manage hemorrhoids can not only relieve symptoms but also prevent constipation from returning, breaking the cycle for good.

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Conclusion

It is important to know that there is a close link between constipation and hemorrhoids. Both can make each other worse, and this can make your life hard. By making some changes in your daily habits and what you eat, you can help ease the pain from both conditions. This can also help you feel better in general.

Always notice what your body is telling you. See a doctor if you think you need help. You do not have to manage your health on your own. Your well-being is important; get the right help today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can constipation exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms?

Constipation can worsen hemorrhoids by causing straining and hard stools, leading to more swelling, bleeding, and discomfort. To ease symptoms, avoid straining, use stool softeners, stay active, and eat more fiber.

What are the best treatments for hemorrhoids that prevent constipation?

Effective treatments use sitz baths, witch hazel ointments, and stool softeners. Some effective home remedies to help ease hemorrhoid symptoms include taking more fibre and drinking plenty of fluids. This is good to keep your stool soft and regular. It is best to talk to your healthcare provider to get the right treatment for how bad your hemorrhoid is.

How long do hemorrhoids affect bowel movements?

Hemorrhoids can change how you go to the bathroom for weeks. There can be rectal pain and discomfort that last during these periods of time. The passage of stool might not feel normal. Sometimes, your stool can seem stuck or not all the way out. If you have these signs for a long time, such as rectal bleeding, talk to a healthcare provider. They can help you find ways to feel better.

Do certain medications cause constipation that aggravates hemorrhoids?

Yes. Painkillers, iron supplements, and some antidepressants can cause constipation, which may worsen hemorrhoids if not managed.

Can hemorrhoids make you feel like you haven’t finished a bowel movement?

Yes. Swollen hemorrhoids can create a sensation of incomplete evacuation, making you feel like you still need to go. This discomfort is common and may lead to repeated straining, which can further irritate hemorrhoids and worsen symptoms.