Exercise is a vital component of your overall well-being, but sometimes exercise can exacerbate hemorrhoids. If you are careful with the exercises you choose and with how you take care of your hemorrhoids, you can keep them from interrupting your exercise goals.
Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur when parts of blood vessels in the anus become distended and bumpy. Hemorrhoids may occur inside the body or outside the anus. Symptoms of internal hemorrhoids include bright red bleeding with bowel movements. External hemorrhoids can become swollen, causing itching and burning. Often hemorrhoids are merely annoying, but if they worsen or if blood clots in the hemorrhoid, they can become very painful.
Conditions
Some medical conditions predispose people to hemorrhoids. Pregnancy and obesity cause extra pressure in the pelvis, which prevents good blood flow return from the anus to the rest of the vascular system. Constipation may also be a risk factor for hemorrhoids, because anytime you hold your breath to have a bowel movement, you may be increasing the pressure on the hemorrhoids. If you are overweight or you have recently had a baby, and you are changing your diet drastically to lose weight, you could be at a higher risk for developing or worsening hemorrhoids.
Exercise
Weight lifting is an essential part of an exercise program. Unfortunately, some weight lifting techniques can worsen hemorrhoids. The Valsalva maneuver is when you exhale forcefully against closed air passages, such as when you're trying to equalize pressure in your ears during flight takeoffs. Some weightlifters use the Valsalva maneuver or hold their breath as they lift heavy weights. This can increase pressure on pre-existing hemorrhoids. Make sure you inhale and exhale when you lift weights, and avoid holding your breath. Pronounced external hemorrhoids can cause discomfort with some cardio activities, particularly bicycling. Adjust your type and duration of cardio exercise if your hemorrhoid pain worsens or persists.
Treatment
Once present, hemorrhoids may get worse or they may get better, but they will not go away on their own. Your diet is very important to help reduce hemorrhoid symptoms. Make sure you eat plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Adequate dietary fat is necessary for regular, healthy bowel movements. Drink plenty of water. Over-the-counter topical hemorrhoid medications can help with your symptoms, but be sure to see your health care provider if your hemorrhoids persist or worsen. Severe pain can indicate that a blood clot has formed in the hemorrhoid. Also, rectal bleeding can be a sign of other medical problems, so be sure to see your doctor.
