Aetiology
The causes of haemorrhoids are not well understood but the following factors are important:
constipation and prolonged straining at stool - this puts downward pressure on the anal vascular cushions and causes engorgement and dilation of haemorrhoidal tissue
- the typical Western diet is low in fibre and haemorrhoids are more common
- haemorrhoids are uncommon in developing countries
- increased anal sphincter tone:
- several effective treatments aim to reduce anal tone, including anal stretch procedures and nitroglycerine ointment
- several effective treatments aim to reduce anal tone, including anal stretch procedures and nitroglycerine ointment
- obstruction of venous flow may play a role:
- during pregnancy
- in patients with portal hypertension
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