Is it possible for hemorrhoids to cause pencil thin stools?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Hemorrhoids do not typically cause pencil-thin stools. While hemorrhoids can lead to symptoms like rectal bleeding, itching, and discomfort, a persistent change in stool shape—such as narrow, pencil-thin stools—is not a recognized sign of hemorrhoids. Thin stools may point to other conditions affecting the colon or rectum, so they shouldn't be ignored.

If you're noticing pencil-thin stools or other unusual changes, don't guess or wait it out. Understanding potential causes early can make all the difference in getting the right care. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand your symptoms and confidently navigate your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if thin stools need care today Learn likely causes of pencil-thin stools Find out if it could be hemorrhoids See OTC options for bowel discomfort Find a doctor for stool changes Discover medically valid home remedies for hemorrhoids Understand if thin stools need urgent care

Not seeing your question? No worries.

Submit your own Question

Explanation

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum and anus. These can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding, but they do not usually change the shape of stools. According to the medical literature, 'low caliber stool' and 'pencil thin stool' are not signs of hemorrhoids. This means that if someone notices their stools becoming pencil thin, it is unlikely to be due to hemorrhoids.

Bowel Habits and Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids are more related to symptoms like pain, itching, and bleeding during bowel movements.
The shape of stool is typically not affected by hemorrhoids.

If you notice changes in your stool shape or have concerns about your bowel habits, you can use Ubie's free AI-powered symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine if you should consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

(References)

Borhan-Manesh F. (2009). "Low caliber stool" and "pencil thin stool" are not signs of .... Digestive diseases and sciences, 18683051.
Johannsson HO, Graf W, & Påhlman L. (2005). Bowel habits in hemorrhoid patients and normal subjects. The American journal of gastroenterology, 15667500.
Brazell HD, Patel M, O'Sullivan DM, Mellen C, & LaSala CA. (2014). The impact of pessary use on bowel symptoms: one-year .... Female pelvic medicine & reconstructive surgery, 24566213.

Thinking about asking ChatGPT?Ask me instead

Tell your friends about us.

We would love to help them too.

For First Time Users

What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?

We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.

Was this page helpful?

Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.