Article

Hemorrhoids and IBS: Causes, Symptoms, and Relief Strategies

Published on Wednesday, January 19, 2022
by Allison Koch

Health & Wellness

Hemorrhoids and IBS: Why They Happen and How to Find Relief

Not Often a Casual Conversation Topic, But Hemorrhoids Are Very Common

Hemorrhoids may not come up in everyday conversation, but they are incredibly common—and they can be a real pain.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins that develop either:

Inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids)
Around the anus under the skin (external hemorrhoids)

They are typically caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum, which can result from various factors.

For individuals with IBS, this becomes especially relevant, as symptoms like constipation, diarrhea, and straining can all contribute to their development.

Why Hemorrhoids Are Common in IBS

There are several factors that increase the risk of hemorrhoids, many of which overlap with common IBS symptoms:

Straining during bowel movements
Chronic constipation (common in IBS-C)
Frequent diarrhea (common in IBS-D)
Sitting on the toilet for extended periods
Low fiber intake

For individuals with IBS, fluctuations between constipation and diarrhea can create repeated pressure and irritation in the rectal area, increasing the likelihood of hemorrhoids over time.

Common Symptoms of Hemorrhoids

When hemorrhoids develop, symptoms may include:

Itching or irritation around the anus
Swelling
Pain or discomfort
Bleeding during bowel movements

These symptoms can make bowel movements uncomfortable, which may lead to further straining—creating a cycle that can be difficult to break.

The Role of Fiber in Prevention and Relief

One of the most effective ways to support hemorrhoid relief—and overall digestive health—is through fiber intake.

Fiber helps promote:

Softer, more formed stools
More regular bowel movements
Reduced straining

Important Fiber Tips:

Increase fiber gradually
If you haven’t been eating fiber-rich foods regularly, add them slowly to avoid gas and bloating—especially if you have IBS.
Know your daily targets
- Women: ~25 grams per day
- Men: ~38 grams per day
Incorporate high-fiber foods
- 2 tablespoons of chia seeds = ~10 grams
- 1 medium pear = ~6 grams

For those with IBS, it’s important to choose fiber types that are well tolerated, as some high-fiber foods may trigger symptoms.

Don’t Forget Fluids

Fiber cannot do its job without adequate hydration.

Recommended daily fluid intake:

Men: ~15.5 cups
Women: ~11.5 cups

Fluids help move stool through the digestive tract, making bowel movements easier and reducing strain.

Fiber Supplements: When Food Isn’t Enough

If meeting fiber needs through food is challenging, over-the-counter fiber supplements can help.

Psyllium-based supplements (like Metamucil) are commonly used to support stool consistency
These can be especially helpful for IBS-related constipation

However, they are only effective when paired with adequate fluid intake.

When to See a Healthcare Provider

If you are experiencing hemorrhoids for the first time, it’s important to have them evaluated by a medical provider.

This helps ensure that symptoms such as bleeding are not related to another underlying condition.

At-Home Relief Strategies

There are several simple, effective ways to manage hemorrhoid symptoms at home:

Over-the-Counter Treatments

Options like Preparation H and medicated wipes can help reduce:

Itching
Swelling
Burning
Pain

Sitz Baths

Sitz baths can be incredibly soothing and are often a go-to recommendation.

Soak in warm water for 10–15 minutes
Repeat 2–3 times per day

You can use:

A sitz bath seat that fits over the toilet
Or a standard bathtub

Improve Your Bathroom Positioning

Positioning during bowel movements can make a big difference.

Using a footstool or a product like the Squatty Potty can help:

Improve alignment
Reduce straining
Make bowel movements more efficient

Reduce Pressure When Sitting

If you sit for long periods, this can worsen symptoms.

Helpful strategies include:

Using a donut pillow to relieve pressure
Wearing loose-fitting clothing
Choosing breathable fabrics like cotton

Final Thoughts

Hemorrhoids are common—especially for individuals managing IBS—but they are also very manageable with the right strategies.

Focusing on:

Consistent fiber intake
Proper hydration
Healthy bowel habits

It can go a long way in both prevention and relief.

And while it may not be the easiest topic to talk about, addressing it head-on is an important step toward improving both comfort and overall digestive health.