Haemorrhoids and Flatulence: What's the Connection?

To better manage these digestive discomforts, it’s important to understand them thoroughly. Here’s what you need to know about haemorrhoids and flatulence:

Haemorrhoids, inflammation of the rectal veins

Haemorrhoids are swollen and often inflamed veins located in the anal or rectal area. They are generally caused by chronic constipation, but can have various causes. Although common, they are often misunderstood and can be bothersome, even debilitating, in daily life. 

There are two types: 

Internal haemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, they are generally not painful unless they bleed or protrude slightly from the anus.

External haemorrhoids: They form around the anus and can be very painful, especially if a blood clot forms inside them.

Flatulence, Excess Intestinal Gas

Flatulence, or intestinal gas, commonly known as farts, refers to the expulsion of gas from the intestines through the anus. Flatulence is considered normal, but it can be accompanied by bloating and abdominal pain that may affect the daily lives of those affected.

Are haemorrhoids and flatulence related?

Yes, these two conditions can influence each other. Painful haemorrhoids can make you avoid going to the bathroom, which leads to constipation and the buildup of intestinal gas. Conversely, excess gas can increase abdominal pressure, worsening inflammation of the anal veins. A disrupted bowel movement, whether slowed or accelerated, plays a key role in this interaction. Internal haemorrhoids can make passing gas particularly difficult, leading to gas buildup and, consequently, increased flatulence. There is therefore an even stronger link between internal hemorrhoids and excessive gas.

Haemorrhoids are often accompanied by excess intestinal gas. These two conditions are typically caused by the same factors. Here are the main causes of haemorrhoids and gas:

A Diet Low in Fibre

A diet low in fibr and high in refined foods (white bread, pasta, etc.) can slow down bowel movements and lead to chronic constipation. Stools then become harder and more difficult to pass. When a person strains to have a bowel movement, this puts pressure on the anal veins and promotes the development of haemorrhoids. When we are constipated, gas can build up in the intestines, which can cause excessive flatulence.

An Unbalanced Gut Flora

When our gut flora is out of balance, with an overgrowth of pathogenic bacteria and a lack of good bacteria, passing stool can become more difficult and lead to haemorrhoids. Also, when our microbiota is in a state of dysbiosis, putrefaction can occur within the colon and lead to excess gas.

A Sedentary Lifestyle

A lack of physical activity can slow down bowel movements and lead to constipation. The pressure this puts on the anal veins can cause haemorrhoids and inflammation in the anal area. In addition, a sedentary lifestyle leads to poor digestion, which can cause gas to build up in the intestines and lead to excessive flatulence.

Stress

Stress activates the sympathetic nervous system, which slows down intestinal transit and disrupts colon motility. This can lead to constipation, increasing pressure on the anal veins and contributing to hemorrhoids. Additionally, stress disrupts the production of digestive juices and the digestive process, leading to bloating and excessive gas buildup.

Haemorrhoids and gas may be accompanied by specific symptoms: 

• Bleeding: Bleeding may occur during bowel movements. The pressure exerted on the anal veins can then increase inflammation and be accompanied by flatulence.

• Pain: Anal discomfort of varying intensity is common with haemorrhoids. This pain is caused by pressure on the sensitive tissues around the anus.

• Bloating: Gas buildup in the intestines can cause a feeling of swelling in the abdomen. This is due to poor digestion, which is often closely linked to the development of haemorrhoids. 

• Itching: Haemorrhoids can cause intense itching around the anus due to inflammation or irritation of the surrounding skin. This can make bowel movements and passing gas uncomfortable.

• Constipation: Chronic constipation, which is often linked to haemorrhoids, can lead to hard stools that are difficult to pass. Passing stools can then cause pain and worsen gas formation in the intestines.

• Excess gas: Excessive flatulence is a common symptom associated with digestive disorders that often accompany haemorrhoids. It is caused by poor digestion or the fermentation of undigested food in the intestine.

• Oozing: Hemorrhoids can cause oozing due to inflammation of the anal veins, which leads to the discharge of fluid. This oozing is usually light in colour and may have an unpleasant odor.

Each symptom is linked both to the pressure exerted on the anal veins in the case of hemorrhoids and to digestive system disorders that promote gas production in the intestines.

Warning: If you notice blood in your stool, do not hesitate to contact your doctor for a professional diagnosis and to rule out a more serious condition.

If you suffer from haemorrhoids and excessive flatulence, we recommend that you contact your healthcare provider. Your GP can assess your situation based on your symptoms and, if necessary, refer you to a gastroenterologist, a specialist in the digestive system. The gastroenterologist will then be able to provide personalised advice and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your needs. In the meantime, here are our tips for preventing these discomforts and taking care of your digestion on a daily basis.

1. Chew your food thoroughly: Adequate chewing is essential to help your digestive system work more efficiently and promote healthy bowel movements. Take the time to eat slowly without rushing to avoid gas and facilitate bowel movements.

2. Eat fibre: A high-fibre diet is essential for regular bowel movements and preventing constipation, which is often responsible for haemorrhoids and excess gas. Opt for whole grains as well as fresh fruits and vegetables at every meal. 

3. Massage your stomach: Gentle abdominal massages stimulate bowel movements, reducing gas buildup and facilitating bowel movements, which relieves both bloating and anal pressure. Perform an abdominal massage whenever you feel the need, or as desired. 

4. Take care of your microbiome: Balanced gut flora promotes optimal digestion and limits excessive fermentation, which causes flatulence. Eat fermented foods (yoghurt, kefir, raw sauerkraut, etc.) and take probiotic supplements to strengthen your gut microbiome.

5. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps soften stools and thus prevent constipation, thereby reducing pressure on the anal veins. Proper hydration also supports better digestion and helps prevent intestinal fermentation, which causes excessive flatulence.

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During a haemorrhoid flare-up, it’s important to avoid spicy foods, alcohol, and heavy meals, which can worsen inflammation and irritation of the anal veins. Excessive gas production may be linked to fermentable foods (cabbage, legumes, dairy products), an imbalance in the gut microbiome, or not chewing food thoroughly. Make sure to stay well-hydrated, eat a high-fibre diet to promote regular bowel movements, and avoid straining during bowel movements. If pain persists, consult a healthcare professional.

Haemorrhoids and gas can truly be a source of embarrassment and discomfort in daily life, and it’s normal to feel frustrated by these symptoms. However, it’s important not to let these issues affect your overall well-being. Take care of yourself by consulting a healthcare professional, such as your GP, as soon as possible. With proper care, it is possible to regain a more peaceful life and manage these discomforts effectively. You are not alone; there are tailored solutions to help you feel better.

Marine is a naturopath specialising in children’s well-being and a parenting coach. With 10 years’ experience supporting families, she now channels her passion into serving her community by sharing natural and caring advice.