Is it Possible for Weightlifting to Lead to Hemorrhoids?

Weightlifting and Hemorrhoids: What You Need to Know

Weightlifting helps build muscle and improve your overall strength, flexibility, and endurance. But it can also have some unexpected consequences, especially if you’re not careful.

What are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that cause pain and bleeding when they become irritated or inflamed. They can also cause bleeding and discomfort when sitting down or going to the bathroom. They’re more common than many people think. In fact, about half of people will have hemorrhoids by age 50.

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How Weightlifters Can Develop Hemorrhoids

People who lift heavy weights usually perform a breathing method known as the Valsalva maneuver that involves holding air in your lungs. Holding your breath forces the air down into your lungs. This increases the pressure on your internal organs, which can, in turn, cause the veins near your rectum to swell into hemorrhoids.

Tips to Avoid Developing Hemorrhoids When Heavy Lifting

If you’re lifting weights, you should know that the way you breathe during your workout can have a big impact on whether or not you develop hemorrhoids. Before starting any exercise routine, ensure you’ve learned proper breathing techniques from a certified personal trainer or exercise professional.

If you lift on your own or have already been educated on these breathing methods by an expert, remember that consistency is key. If you don’t follow through with proper breathing techniques every time you lift weights, then there’s no way they’ll help reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids! It’s also important to lift weights correctly by standing with your feet shoulder-width apart, bending at the knees and hips until you are almost parallel with the ground before lifting, as well as avoiding the Valsalva during lifting.

Can You Still Work Out with Hemorrhoids?

Depending on the severity of your condition, such as if it includes anal bleeding, you may need to avoid vigorous exercise entirely until the bleeding stops. If you do choose to resume training, minimize straining and avoid lifting heavy weights. Try lowering the weight and ensure you perform proper breathing — it’s important not to hold your breath. Also, avoid compression of the abdominal cavity, such as you’d work in a squat.

Exercise for Hemorrhoids

It’s a common myth that exercise can cause or worsen hemorrhoids. While this might be true for some people, it’s important to know that regular exercise is beneficial if you have hemorrhoids or are prone to them. Particularly aerobic exercises such as yoga and walking are recommended for those ailing from hemorrhoids.

Precautions to Take

If you’ve been diagnosed with hemorrhoids, you know it can be hard to find ways to stay active. However, exercising regularly is an important part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Here are some precautions to help you stay safe while exercising with hemorrhoids:

• Ensure you’re wearing the proper clothing
• Don’t overdo it
• Don’t make any sudden movements

Treatment

Treatment for hemorrhoids may include over-the-counter creams or ointments, stool softeners, sitz baths, or in severe cases, surgery. Most hemorrhoid treatments are over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories. They can relieve burning sensations caused by hemorrhoids and reduce swelling, but it’s important to be patient before expecting results.

At-Home Care

Small hemorrhoids typically go away after a few days and can be treated at home. Increasing the fiber in your diet can help eliminate hemorrhoids and keep them from returning. Sitz baths may also reduce pain and inflammation from hemorrhoids if done regularly.

When to Visit a Doctor

If you experience any of the following, it is important to see a doctor:

• Severe pain
• Bleeding that won’t stop
• Signs of infection