Hemorrhoids -- also called piles -- are swollen, inflamed veins in your anus and lower rectum. Although straining during bowel movements is the most common reason for hemorrhoids to bleed, strenuous exercise can also trigger minor bleeding. According to Cathy Fieseler, M.D., a physician at the University of Texas in Tyler, blood in the stool following a strenuous workout or race is fairly common, with up to 20 percent of runners experiencing rectal bleeding following a marathon; hemorrhoids are often the cause. If you have rectal bleeding, consult your doctor to rule out more serious conditions.
Features
Hemorrhoids are caused by straining -- usually due to constipation -- to produce bowel movements. Chronic diarrhea, pregnancy, obesity and a low-fiber diet increase your risk; genetics can also play a role. Hemorrhoids can be either internal -- inside the rectum, where they sometimes cause episodes of painless bleeding -- or external, under the skin near the anus. External hemorrhoids become particularly bothersome when blood forms a clot, or thrombus, resulting in a painful, grape-like swelling. Along with bleeding during bowel movements, classic hemorrhoid symptoms include itching, irritation, inflammation and pain.
Exercise
Although certain types of exercise aggravate hemorrhoids and should be avoided, regular exercise is actually the most important preventive measure you can take to guard against hemorrhoids and treat those that already exist. Physical activity reduces pressure on the rectal veins while promoting blood circulation, which can strengthen the veins and alleviate inflammation. Exercise can also help you lose excess weight which may be contributing to your hemorrhoids. HemorrhoidsTalk.com advises swimming, running, yoga, walking and aerobics to alleviate hemorrhoids. Bicycling and horseback riding, which increase pressure on the rectal area, should be avoided. Weightlifting can also worsen hemorrhoids, particularly if you hold your breath or grunt while lifting; this exerts pressure on the diaphragm, and in turn, on the abdomen and rectal veins.
Treatment
According to Dr. Lawrence J. Brandt, professor of medicine and surgery at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York City, minor cases of bleeding from internal hemorrhoids usually respond to stool lubrication and stool softeners, such as mineral oil and docusate sodium. Your doctor may also recommend laxatives to ensure moister and more regular stools, Sitz baths containing magnesium sulfate, zinc oxide creams, medicated wipes and medicated suppositories. Severe cases may require endoscopic procedures or rubber band ligature. You can treat pain and swelling with over-the-counter analgesics, as long as you have no conditions that preclude their use. In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a narcotic.
Medical Care
Consult your doctor if your hemorrhoids cause severe pain or frequent or excessive bleeding, or if they don't get better despite self care. MayoClinic.com cautions that you should consult a doctor immediately if your stools are black or purplish-red in color or have a tarry consistency; these symptoms can indicate bleeding in the digestive tract. If you experience profuse rectal bleeding, dizziness, lightheadedness or faintness, seek emergency medical treatment
