I was wondering if there is a "normal" time that it takes hemorrhoids to develop. Over the course of the last 24 hours, and more specifically the last 8 hours, I believe that I've gone from normal to suffering from hemorrhoids. As the minutes go by, I can feel a swelling pain in that area. Is that in any way normal?

Dear Czaron,

Most of the time hemorrhoids occur gradually over a period of time. Some of the most common causes of developing hemorrhoids include straining or pushing too hard during bowel movements, constipation, sitting for long periods, obesity and even heredity.

Other medical conditions and medications used to treat some of them can also be contributing factors in vascular weakening and pooling of blood that causes hemorrhoids. For instance, heart and liver disease, treated over a long period of time can cause blood to pool in the abdomen and pelvic area, enlarging the veins and can create the conditions necessary for an onset of hemorrhoids.

Sudden onset of hemorrhoids can occur if one is not used to hard physical labor. A sudden increase in physical activity, such as helping a friend move large objects, or lifting heavy items alone, can cause an immediate onset of hemorrhoids. This condition usually leads to the painful itching sensation brought on by the sudden increase in pressure to the area. It usually subsides, if not too serious, by itself, in a matter of days as long as no more heavy lifting is done.

Thanks for asking Motherload!

Motherload is a Certified Nurse Assistant as well as an IBS sufferer, which means she knows a lot about poop. Got a question for her? Ask it here. [1]