The Four Reasons "Everyone Has Hemorrhoids Now"
Here's a fun headline: "New York Magazine's" website "The Cut" just did an in-depth feature titled, "Everyone Has HEMORRHOIDS Now".
They talked to various doctors who are experts on BUTT STUFF, including the "chief of colon and rectal surgery" at Mount Sinai. (Fun job title.)
Hemorrhoids have apparently been on the rise for years. And YOUNG people are dealing with them more and more. If they get bad enough, the only fix is a very uncomfortable surgery.
You can avoid them though, and here's how. They say these are the main reasons for the hemorrhoid epidemic we're currently facing.
1. We sit too much. Sitting for too long puts added pressure on the veins down there. It restricts blood flow, and that's what causes hemorrhoids. Not moving around enough can also make you constipated, which doesn't help.
2. We sit on the toilet too long. A survey in 2021 found 73% of people . . . and 93% of folks under 30 . . . bring their phone in the bathroom with them. So that's a big reason why. Sitting with your knees up is even worse for hemorrhoids, so less time on the toilet is better. Ideally, two minutes or less.
3. We're not eating enough fiber. More fiber tends to equal less straining. It also equals less wiping and less irritation.
4. We're dehydrated. Not drinking enough fluids slows down your digestion and makes you constipated. So, more straining on the commode.
That's not ALL the things that cause hemorrhoids, but it's four of the big ones. If they become a chronic issue, they say talking to your doctor about it EARLY is the right call.
But it's an embarrassing problem, so a lot of people don't mention it. Then their hemorrhoids get worse, and surgery becomes the only option.
(The Cut)
Originally posted on July 30th, 2025