Can hemorrhoids lead to a sensation of incomplete bowel movements?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Hemorrhoids can cause a sensation of incomplete bowel movements, though this isn't their most common symptom. This feeling, medically known as tenesmus, occurs when swollen hemorrhoidal tissue creates pressure in the rectum, tricking the body into signaling that more stool remains. However, other conditions frequently cause this same sensation, including constipation, pelvic floor dysfunction, rectal inflammation, or even more serious issues like inflammatory bowel disease or rectal tumors.

Because so many conditions can produce this symptom, self-diagnosis is unreliable and potentially risky. Getting clarity on what's actually happening is the smartest first step—and you can do it right now, for free, in just a few minutes. Take an instant, AI-powered symptom check to receive personalized insights about possible causes and clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins around the lower part of the rectum and anus. They often cause symptoms like discomfort, pain, or bleeding. In some cases, if the hemorrhoids are enlarged or irritated, they might interfere with the normal passage of stool. This interference can lead a person to feel as if they haven't completely emptied their bowels.

However, this sensation is more commonly linked with conditions like constipation or issues with how the muscles around the anus work. When these factors combine, it can seem like the bowel movement wasn't completed, causing a feeling of incomplete evacuation. It is important to remember that many things can cause this sensation.

If you have ongoing or bothersome symptoms, you can use a free symptom checker to better understand what might be causing your discomfort, or talk with a doctor who can check for other issues and help decide on the best treatment to make you feel more comfortable while passing stool.

(References)

Lohsiriwat V. Hemorrhoids: from basic pathophysiology to clinical management. World J Gastroenterol. 2012 May 7;18(17):2009-17. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v18.i17.2009. PMID: 22563187; PMCID: PMC3342598.
Sanchez C, Chinn BT. Hemorrhoids. Clin Colon Rectal Surg. 2011 Mar;24(1):5-13. doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1272818. PMID: 22379400; PMCID: PMC3140328.
Fontem RF, Eyvazzadeh D. Internal Hemorrhoid. [Updated 2023 Jul 31]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537182/

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