Hemorrhoids do not cause diarrhea. While these two conditions can occur at the same time, they are usually separate issues with distinct underlying causes.
Understanding Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located in the rectum or around the anus, similar to varicose veins found elsewhere in the body. They can develop inside the rectum, known as internal hemorrhoids, or under the skin around the anus, referred to as external hemorrhoids. These can become enlarged due to increased pressure in the lower rectum.
Common symptoms of external hemorrhoids include itching, irritation, pain or discomfort, swelling around the anus, and sometimes bleeding when wiping. Internal hemorrhoids often do not cause pain unless they prolapse, meaning they push through the anal opening. If internal hemorrhoids do cause symptoms, they might present as painless, bright red bleeding during bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids and Bowel Movement Patterns
Instead, they are more commonly associated with constipation and straining during bowel movements. Increased pressure from straining can lead to the development or worsening of hemorrhoids by stretching the veins in the anal and rectal region.
Frequent or chronic diarrhea can irritate existing hemorrhoids. The passage of watery stools, which may contain digestive acids, can inflame the sensitive tissues around the anus and make hemorrhoids more painful or cause them to bleed. Prolonged periods on the toilet due to diarrhea can also increase pressure, potentially aggravating hemorrhoids. It is important to distinguish between hemorrhoids causing diarrhea and diarrhea irritating already present hemorrhoids, as the former is generally not the case.
Other Potential Causes of Diarrhea
Many instances of diarrhea result from infections, such as those caused by viruses like norovirus or bacteria like E. coli. Food poisoning, acquired from contaminated food or water, is another frequent cause.
Diarrhea can also be a side effect of certain medications, including some antibiotics, or it may stem from food intolerances like lactose intolerance. Underlying digestive conditions such as Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis can also manifest with diarrhea as a prominent symptom. Stress and anxiety can also influence bowel habits, sometimes contributing to diarrhea.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Consult a healthcare provider if diarrhea persists for more than a few days, especially if it is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Signs like excessive thirst, dry mouth, reduced urination, or dizziness might indicate dehydration.
Also consult a doctor if you experience severe abdominal or rectal pain, a fever above 102°F (39°C), or notice blood in your stool, which could appear bright red or black. If hemorrhoid symptoms like bleeding or pain do not improve after a week of home care, or if you have any changes in bowel habits, a medical evaluation can help rule out other conditions and ensure appropriate treatment.