People Who Struggle to Sleep May Face a Higher Risk of Hemorrhoids
Constipation isn’t the only cause of hemorrhoids. A genetic study suggests that poor sleep habits may also increase the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Researchers at Peking University People’s Hospital in China analyzed genetic data related to hemorrhoids from approximately 940,000 people of European ancestry to examine the potential causal relationship between sleep habits and hemorrhoids. The study included data from 218,920 people with hemorrhoids and 725,213 controls. The researchers used Mendelian randomization, a method that uses genetic information to estimate potential causal relationships between lifestyle factors and diseases.
The analysis found that people with insomnia had a 23% higher risk of hemorrhoids. Longer sleep duration was associated with a 16% higher risk, while daytime napping was linked to a 14% higher risk. In particular, the association between insomnia and hemorrhoids remained statistically significant even after adjustment for multiple testing. The researchers found no evidence that hemorrhoids caused changes in sleep habits in the opposite direction. These findings suggest that sleep problems may be a risk factor for hemorrhoids rather than simply a consequence of the condition.
Poor or irregular sleep may increase the risk of hemorrhoids through reduced bowel motility and increased inflammation. When sleep is insufficient or irregular, bowel movements may slow down, making constipation more likely. Constipation is a well-known risk factor for hemorrhoids. Excessive daytime napping may also contribute to reduced physical activity and increased venous congestion in the pelvic area, potentially raising the risk of hemorrhoids. The researchers suggested that sleep habits, along with bowel habits, should be considered when managing and preventing hemorrhoids.
However, because the study analyzed genetic data from people of European ancestry, further research is needed to determine whether the same associations apply to other ethnic groups.
The findings were recently published in the international journal Neuropsychiatric Research.
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