Do hemorrhoids cause diarrhea?

Introduction

It’s natural to wonder if there’s a connection between hemorrhoids and diarrhea. After all, both conditions involve the bottom end of the digestive tract and can be uncomfortable or embarrassing to talk about. Fortunately, the answer is straightforward: hemorrhoids themselves do not cause diarrhea. However, chronic diarrhea can contribute to the development or worsening of hemorrhoids.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus. They can be internal or external, and they often result from increased pressure on the veins in this area. Common factors include chronic constipation or diarrhea, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, heavy lifting, prolonged sitting, a low‑fiber diet and obesity. When the veins swell, they may cause itching, discomfort, pain or bleeding.

How hemorrhoids develop

When you strain to pass stool because of constipation or diarrhea, the extra pressure on the veins around the rectum causes them to enlarge. Over time, the irritated veins can become hemorrhoids. Johns Hopkins Medicine explains that chronic constipation or diarrhea is a risk factor for hemorrhoids. This means that if you frequently have loose stools or diarrhea, you might be more likely to develop hemorrhoids … but the hemorrhoids themselves aren’t producing the diarrhea.

How diarrhea contributes to hemorrhoids

Diarrhea creates frequent bowel movements and loose stools. The repeated wiping and irritation can inflame the delicate skin around the anus. Liquid stools may also contain digestive enzymes that irritate the anal area. Combined with straining and sitting on the toilet for long periods, this irritation may lead to swollen veins and hemorrhoids.

Do hemorrhoids cause diarrhea?

No, hemorrhoids do not cause diarrhea. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels and do not influence your intestines’ ability to absorb or move stool. The watery consistency of stool in diarrhea results from conditions such as infections, food intolerances, irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel disease or medications. While hemorrhoids may bleed or produce mucus, they do not trigger diarrhea. If you have persistent or unexplained diarrhea, consult a healthcare provider to identify the underlying cause.

Preventing hemorrhoids when you have diarrhea

If you struggle with diarrhea, taking steps to protect your anal area can help prevent hemorrhoids or keep them from getting worse:

• Treat the underlying cause. Work with your doctor to diagnose infections or digestive conditions that cause diarrhea.
• Stay hydrated and adjust your diet. Drink plenty of clear fluids to prevent dehydration. Avoid high‑fat, greasy or spicy foods that can irritate your bowel.
• Don’t strain. Even if stools are loose, avoid pushing or sitting on the toilet for long periods. Give yourself time but avoid reading or scrolling while on the toilet.
• Keep the area clean. Use gentle, unscented wipes instead of dry toilet paper.
• Take sitz baths. Warm water baths can soothe irritation and keep the area clean.
• Strengthen your diet when diarrhea resolves. Once your bowel movements have normalised, eat plenty of fiber and drink water to keep stools soft and prevent constipation or future hemorrhoid flare‑ups.

When to see a doctor

See a healthcare professional if you have:

• Persistent or severe diarrhea lasting more than a few days.
• Blood in your stool, significant pain or swelling.
• Ongoing anal irritation despite home care.
• Fevers, dehydration or other concerning symptoms.

A doctor can rule out other conditions, recommend treatments or refer you to a specialist if necessary.

Conclusion

Hemorrhoids do not cause diarrhea, but chronic diarrhea can contribute to the formation or worsening of hemorrhoids. By managing your digestive health, responding promptly to diarrheal episodes and practising gentle bathroom habits, you can reduce irritation and keep hemorrhoids at bay. If symptoms persist or you’re unsure about the cause of your diarrhea, consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.