Can hemorrhoids lead to the development of thin stools?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Hemorrhoids do not typically cause thin stools. While hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can lead to bleeding, itching, and discomfort, they are not known to narrow the shape of your stool. Thin or pencil-like stools are more often associated with other conditions, such as colon polyps, strictures, or, in some cases, colorectal cancer.

Because thin stools can signal something more serious, it's important not to guess. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be causing your symptoms and get clear guidance on your next steps.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

Important Next Steps

Learn if thin stools need care today Discover likely causes of thin stools Find out if thin stools signal something serious See OTC options for thin stools Find a doctor for hemorrhoid concerns Learn medically valid home remedies for hemorrhoids Understand if your thin stools warrant evaluation

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Explanation

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower part of the rectum or anus. They can cause discomfort, itching, and sometimes bleeding. However, they are not known to cause changes in stool shape, such as making stools thin or pencil-like.

According to the provided references, thin stools are not a common symptom of hemorrhoids. One study discusses bowel habits in hemorrhoid patients, but it does not link hemorrhoids to thin stools. Another reference specifically notes that 'low caliber stool' or 'pencil thin stool' are not signs of hemorrhoids. This means that if someone is experiencing thin stools, it may not be due to hemorrhoids and could be related to other factors or conditions.

If you are concerned about changes in your bowel habits or stool shape, consider using our free symptom checker and talk to a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and advice.

(References)

Johannsson HO, Graf W, & Påhlman L. (2005). Bowel habits in hemorrhoid patients and normal subjects. The American journal of gastroenterology, 15667500.
Borhan-Manesh F. (2009). "Low caliber stool" and "pencil thin stool" are not signs of .... Digestive diseases and sciences, 18683051.
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.

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