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Published on: 3/5/2025

Can Hemorrhoids Lead to a Sensation of Incomplete Bowel Movements?

Hemorrhoids can sometimes make people feel like they haven’t completely finished their bowel movement, but this is not their most common symptom. Other factors, like constipation or pelvic floor problems, may also cause this feeling.

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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, it’s a good idea to 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: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537182/

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