Hemorrhoids and Exercise
Exercise can help to reduce the symptoms of hemorrhoids, especially if you lose some weight as a result, but you also need to consider your diet and other risk factors that may be present. Altering what you eat is likely to have much more of an impact than increasing your level of activity, though both will help, especially when combined.
Exercising Will Help Your Lose Weight And Help Your ‘Lose’ Those Hemorrhoids
It is important to become active if you have developed signs of hemorrhoids because being inactive for long periods of time will simply make the symptoms worse. This is because sitting down increases the pressure on the anal and rectal areas, which in turn increases the pressure of the blood in the veins, leading to the hemorrhoids becoming larger. More hemorrhoids may also develop. Physical activity can help to relieve the strain on the affected areas, as long as you carefully choose what you do. Exercise can also improve the functioning of your digestive system and help to lose weight, which is one of the main risk factors for the condition.
One of the main risk factors for the development of hemorrhoids is being overweight or being obese, so it is definitely a good idea to start exercising if you have begun to show symptoms of hemorrhoids. However, you should choose your form of exercise carefully, to ensure that you do not place any extra strain on the lower part of your abdomen or back, which may worsen the pain and discomfort that you.
Exercise Hard… But Not Too Hard!
Hemorrhoid sufferers should avoid forms of exercise that involve prolonged sitting, such as cycling or exercise machines. Weightlifting is also not advised if you have hemorrhoids, because this can increase the pressure on your hemorrhoids.
However, there are many forms of exercise that are suitable for you to undertake, and will not cause your symptoms to worsen. These include swimming, which takes pressure off of the rectal area. If your hemorrhoids are external and are prone to bleeding, then you should seek advice from either your colon and rectal surgical specialist (proctologist). Walking or running are also suitable activities.
Be aware though that any friction may irritate external hemorrhoids, perhaps leading to bleeding. Applying a cream or a thin layer of petroleum jelly before you start to exercise can prevent this. Yoga is another form of exercise that can be extremely beneficial. Sitting should be undertaken with care, but yoga improves muscle strength and tone, and may help to prevent more hemorrhoids from developing.
Be sensible when it comes to exercising if you have hemorrhoids. Many activities can place a strain on the affected area, so build up the amount of activity gradually. Avoid exercising on the days when the hemorrhoids are bleeding excessively or are particularly painful, as movement will only aggravate the symptoms.
When Exercising is Not Enough
If you haven’t already, read other blog posts our this website for further advice in managing your hemorrhoids. If that is not enough and if after many weeks of exercise and diet change you are still experiencing problems, then the best thing you can do is consult your colorectal doctor. Your surgeon will provide you with the necessary advice to live a comfortable and healthy lifestyle.