If you’ve been feeling a little… inflamed lately, you’re not alone. According to a cheeky but surprisingly informative feature by The Cut titled “Everyone Has Hemorrhoids Now”. . . the unglamorous condition is having a major moment. And no, it’s not just your grandpa who’s struggling—young people are increasingly dealing with it too.
Hemorrhoids, for the uninitiated, are swollen veins in your lower rectum or anus. They’re super common, often uncomfortable, and in severe cases, can require surgery. So, why the sudden hemorrhoid boom? Doctors told The Cut it’s a mix of modern habits and lifestyle choices, many of which are… avoidable.
Here are some of the biggest culprits:
1. We sit too much.
Whether you’re binging shows, working from home, or deep into a TikTok spiral, sitting for hours puts pressure on your nether regions. It restricts blood flow and can cause—you guessed it—hemorrhoids. Bonus fun: lack of movement also makes constipation more likely, which doesn’t help the situation back there.
2. We bring our phones into the bathroom.
Yep, your daily scroll on the toilet may be hurting more than your productivity. A 2021 survey found that nearly three-quarters of people admit to phone use while pooping, with under-30s leading the pack at 93%. Longer bathroom sessions = more strain. Doctors recommend keeping it under two minutes. (So maybe leave the doomscrolling for the couch?)
3. We’re fiber-deficient.
A low-fiber diet makes bowel movements harder (literally). More strain means more irritation. It also leads to more wiping, which can worsen inflammation. The fix? Load up on fruits, veggies, and whole grains. Your gut—and your butt—will thank you.
4. We’re dehydrated.
Not drinking enough water slows digestion and ups your chances of constipation. Again: more straining = bad news for your backside.
It’s not just these four things, but they’re some of the most common causes doctors are seeing. And while hemorrhoids are treatable, ignoring them can make things worse. Many people put off seeing a doctor out of embarrassment, only to end up needing a very un-fun surgery.
So, moral of the story? Stand up, drink water, eat your greens, and leave your phone out of the bathroom. Your future self—especially the part that makes contact with chairs—will be grateful.
