Silent Causes of Haemorrhoids

Three out of four adults endure haemorrhoids at some point in their lives. “Haemorrhoids are dilated, swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum,” says gastroenterologist Dr David Greenwald. “They may be asymptomatic or cause discomfort and occasional bleeding.”

Here are some everyday habits that can cause haemorrhoids.

YOU’RE LIFTING HEAVY OBJECTS

You may think it’s harmless to pick up one end of the couch while you’re moving, but that could increase pressure in the rectum, causing the veins (the haemorrhoidal plexus) to swell like a balloon, says gastroenterologist Dr Darren Brenner. Lifting correctly – with your legs, not your back – can help. The same goes for the gym. Challenge yourself, but make sure that your workout and weights match your abilities.

YOU SIT ON THE TOILET FOR TOO LONG

Sitting too long on an open toilet bowl will cause gravity to put undue stress on these veins. Take all the time you need to go, but once you’re done, flush and head out.

YOUR DIET ISN’T GREAT

If you’re making too many fast-food runs or constantly nibbling on packaged snacks, you may not be getting enough fibre, which helps bulk up and soften your stool so it can sail through your GI tract smoothly.

YOU HAVE DIARRHOEA

Going to the toilet multiple times a day can also lead to straining. The fix, says Dr Brenner, is to address the underlying cause of your diarrhoea. It may be viral, irritable bowel syndrome, medications or a foodborne illness. Or you may need to simply tweak your diet.