Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that cause discomfort, pain, itching, and sometimes bleeding. These are often the result of increased pressure in the veins of the lower rectum, which can occur due to straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or other factors.
Interestingly, hemorrhoids and chronic venous insufficiency, also known as vein disease, share a common mechanism. Vein disease occurs when the valves in the veins that regulate blood flow back to the heart become weakened or damaged. This leads to blood pooling in the veins, causing them to swell. In the legs, this condition manifests as varicose veins or spider veins; in the rectum, it results in hemorrhoids.
In this blog, we’ll explore the connection between these vein conditions, including common causes, practical steps to manage the disorders, and when a consultation with a vein specialist is warranted.
Both hemorrhoids and the disorder that causes varicose veins and other leg problems stem from similar issues within the circulatory system, and their severity is often correlated. Studies, including one published by the National Library of Medicine (NIH) titled Association Between Hemorrhoids and Lower Extremity Chronic Venous Insufficiency, found that patients with hemorrhoidal disease are more likely to experience lower extremity venous insufficiency, further strengthening the connection between these conditions.
Research reported by the Journal of Gastroenterology and Hepatology revealed that hemorrhoidal disease (HD) frequently coexists with chronic venous disease (CVD), with over 51 percent of participants showing symptoms of both conditions. Common symptoms of HD included bleeding (71.8 percent), pain (67.4 percent), and prolapse (36.2 percent), which increased with disease severity. Risk factors strongly associated with HD severity and recurrence included older age, male gender, constipation, elevated BMI, and the presence of CVD. Among women, pregnancy and the number of births were significant contributors.
The results emphasize the importance of screening for CVD in patients with HD and vice versa, mainly when shared risk factors are present.
Hemorrhoids and chronic venous insufficiency share several overlapping risk factors, many of which contribute to increased pressure within the veins. By understanding these contributing factors, you can reduce your risk for both hemorrhoids and vein-related issues.
Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) occurs when the valves in the veins that help return blood to the heart become weak or damaged. Over time, these conditions weaken the vein walls and valves, causing blood to pool in the veins and leading to swelling, discomfort, and the development of varicose veins or spider veins.
Factors that contribute to vein disease include:
Heredity
A study reported in AHA/ASA Journals titled A Review of Familial, Genetic, and Congenital Aspects of Primary Varicose Vein Disease
found a genetic basis for varicose veins and their complications, particularly venous ulceration. Key findings include “familial clustering,” which concludes that patients with both parents affected with vein disease are 90 percent likely to develop varicose veins. Further, twin studies show 60-90 percent heritability for venous function.
Obesity
A study reported by Healthline
examined the link between weight loss and varicose vein health, highlighting how losing weight can reduce pressure on veins, improve blood flow, and alleviate symptoms associated with varicose veins. While weight loss may not reverse existing varicose veins, it can make professional treatments such as sclerotherapy and laser therapy more effective and help prevent the development of more severe vein conditions, such as venous ulcers.
Long periods of standing or sitting
Known as “work veins,” occupations that require prolonged standing or sitting periods can significantly increase the risk of developing varicose veins, as these positions promote blood pooling and reflux in the lower limbs.
Veins work against gravity to return blood to the heart, and extended immobility strains their function. Minor adjustments, such as changing positions frequently, can support healthy circulation.
Gender and age
Women are at a significantly higher risk of developing varicose veins than men due in part to hormonal changes associated with pregnancy, menopause, and hormonal contraceptives, which can weaken vein valves. Aging further increases this risk, with women over 65 having an 83 percent chance of developing symptoms compared to 28 percent of men.
Relief Starts at Center for Vein Restoration
Are varicose veins or venous insufficiency affecting your daily life? Center for Vein Restoration (CVR) offers advanced treatments tailored to your needs. Our skilled vein specialists use cutting-edge technology to provide effective solutions that improve circulation and relieve symptoms.
Don’t wait for your vein issues to worsen—visit us for an evaluation and discover the path to better vein health. Contact us today to book your appointment! Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you.
Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus caused by increased pressure in the pelvic veins. Common triggers include straining during bowel movements due to constipation or diarrhea, sitting on the toilet for extended periods, or the physical strain of pregnancy. The added blood flow and pressure on pelvic veins during pregnancy make hemorrhoids particularly common among expectant mothers.
Poor dietary habits, like consuming a low-fiber diet, also contribute to hemorrhoid development by leading to harder stools and excessive straining.
Certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing both hemorrhoids and CVI, as they affect vein health and circulation. These include:
Addressing these risk factors through lifestyle changes can significantly reduce your chances of developing either condition.
Although hemorrhoids are not always a sign of vein disease, they can serve as a warning signal if paired with other symptoms, including:
If you notice these symptoms alongside hemorrhoids, it’s important to consult a vein specialist. These medical professionals are trained to assess the health of your veins and can determine whether you’re dealing with venous insufficiency or other circulatory problems.
Expert Care for Lasting Results
If you’ve been struggling with the pain, swelling, or appearance of varicose veins, it’s time to seek expert care. At Center for Vein Restoration, we combine medical expertise with the latest treatments to restore your vein health and enhance your quality of life. Schedule your consultation today with our board-certified vein doctors and experience lasting relief.
If you’re experiencing hemorrhoid symptoms, your first step should be a visit to your primary care provider. They can evaluate your condition and, if necessary, refer you to a specialist. A gastroenterologist specializing in the digestive system can diagnose hemorrhoids, recommend medications, and perform procedures like rubber band ligation.
For more severe cases, a colorectal surgeon, also known as a proctologist, is trained to manage complex hemorrhoid conditions, including surgical treatments like hemorrhoidectomy or stapling.
For pregnant or postpartum patients, consulting with an obstetrician or gynecologist may also be beneficial, especially if hemorrhoids are related to pelvic organ prolapse. Early medical advice is crucial if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain, or prolapsed hemorrhoids. By seeking the appropriate specialist based on your condition’s severity, you can ensure effective and comprehensive treatment.
Varicose veins, the enlarged and twisted veins commonly seen in the legs, should be evaluated and treated by a medical professional specializing in venous conditions. A vein specialist is trained to diagnose and manage varicose veins associated with chronic venous insufficiency. These specialists use diagnostic tools like ultrasound to assess blood flow and determine the condition's severity.
CVR vein specialists often offer minimally invasive treatment options, including sclerotherapy, endovenous laser therapy, and radiofrequency ablation to close or remove affected veins. These treatments are office-based, effective, and require little to no downtime, making them convenient for most patients.
Take the First Step Toward Healthier Veins!
At Center for Vein Restoration, our team of vein care experts specializes in diagnosing and treating vein conditions with state-of-the-art, minimally invasive techniques. Whether you’re dealing with discomfort, swelling, or visible veins, we’re here to provide compassionate, personalized care.
Call 240-965-3915 to speak to a Patient Services Representative or schedule your consultation online at a CVR near you today.
CVR accepts many insurances, including Aetna, Amerigroup, Anthem, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, Cigna, MultiPlan, Medicaid, Medicare, and more.
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