Can you get hemorrhoids from lifting. Can Heavy Lifting Cause Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Link and Prevention
How does heavy lifting contribute to hemorrhoid development. What are the best practices to prevent hemorrhoids while weightlifting. Which exercises are beneficial for managing hemorrhoids. How can proper breathing techniques reduce the risk of hemorrhoids during strength training.
The Connection Between Heavy Lifting and Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids, a common condition characterized by enlarged veins in the anus or lower rectum, can be exacerbated by frequent heavy lifting. The primary culprit is not the act of lifting itself, but rather the improper technique often employed during strenuous activities. When individuals lift heavy objects or weights, they tend to hold their breath and strain, creating a sudden increase in pressure within the blood vessels.
This pressure buildup is remarkably similar to the strain experienced during difficult bowel movements, which is a well-known cause of hemorrhoids. The increased abdominal pressure forces air in the lungs downward, ultimately affecting the veins near the rectum. These veins can then swell and protrude, resulting in uncomfortable hemorrhoids.
Proper Lifting Techniques to Prevent Hemorrhoids
Preventing hemorrhoids during weightlifting and heavy lifting activities primarily involves proper breathing techniques. Instead of pushing breath downward under the stress of heavy weights, focus on directing the air upwards towards your throat. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Take a deep breath before each lift
- Hold this breath, pushing the air upwards as you lift the weight
- After completing each repetition, exhale completely
- Repeat this process for each lift
By implementing this breathing technique, you significantly reduce the pressure placed on your abdominal organs during strenuous activities. This not only helps prevent hemorrhoids but also reduces the risk of other conditions such as hernias.
Beneficial Exercises for Hemorrhoid Management
While weightlifting might need to be limited when dealing with hemorrhoids, certain forms of exercise can be beneficial for both prevention and symptom relief. These include:
- Yoga: Promotes overall flexibility and reduces strain
- Walking: A low-impact exercise that improves circulation
- Kegel exercises: Strengthens the pelvic floor muscles
A daily 30-minute walk can be an excellent start to a hemorrhoid-friendly exercise routine. Additionally, incorporating exercises that contract and release your perineal muscles throughout the day can be highly beneficial.
Kegel Exercises for Hemorrhoid Prevention
Kegel exercises are particularly effective in strengthening the perineal muscles, which play a crucial role in hemorrhoid prevention. Here’s how to perform them:
- Contract the perineum for four seconds, then release
- Perform 10 to 15 sets, two to three times a day
- Gradually increase the contraction time by two seconds every two weeks
- Aim to reach a 10-second hold
- Once proficient, 10 to 25 sets a day should suffice
The Impact of Improper Weightlifting Techniques on Hemorrhoid Development
Improper weightlifting techniques can significantly contribute to the development and worsening of hemorrhoids. The primary issue lies in the tendency to hold one’s breath and strain during heavy lifts. This action, often accompanied by grunting, forces air in the lungs downward, increasing pressure on internal organs and the rectal veins.
The pressure created during improper lifting mimics the strain experienced during difficult bowel movements, a known cause of hemorrhoids. Over time, this repeated strain can weaken the walls of the rectal veins, leading to their enlargement and protrusion.
Common Mistakes in Weightlifting That Can Lead to Hemorrhoids
- Holding breath during lifts
- Excessive straining
- Lifting weights beyond one’s capacity
- Neglecting proper form in favor of heavier weights
- Inadequate rest between sets
The Role of Abdominal Pressure in Hemorrhoid Formation
Abdominal pressure plays a crucial role in the formation and exacerbation of hemorrhoids. During heavy lifting, particularly when proper techniques are not employed, there’s a significant increase in intra-abdominal pressure. This pressure directly affects the veins in the rectal area, which are already prone to swelling and inflammation.
The human body is designed to handle certain levels of abdominal pressure. However, when this pressure becomes excessive or frequent, as in the case of improper heavy lifting, it can lead to various health issues, including hemorrhoids.
How Abdominal Pressure Affects Rectal Veins
- Increased blood flow to the rectal area
- Weakening of vein walls over time
- Stretching and bulging of rectal veins
- Potential for vein rupture and bleeding
Understanding this mechanism is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies. By managing abdominal pressure during weightlifting and other strenuous activities, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Balancing Weightlifting and Hemorrhoid Prevention
While the risk of hemorrhoids shouldn’t deter individuals from weightlifting entirely, it’s essential to strike a balance between strength training and hemorrhoid prevention. This balance involves adopting proper techniques, understanding one’s physical limits, and incorporating preventive measures into the workout routine.
Tips for Safe Weightlifting
- Start with lighter weights and gradually increase
- Focus on proper form over heavier lifts
- Incorporate breathing exercises into your routine
- Take adequate rest between sets and workouts
- Stay hydrated to maintain healthy bowel movements
- Consider using supportive gear like weightlifting belts
By following these guidelines, weightlifters can continue to enjoy the benefits of their chosen exercise while minimizing the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Recognizing Early Signs of Hemorrhoids in Weightlifters
Early detection of hemorrhoids is crucial for effective management, especially for those who engage in regular weightlifting. Being aware of the initial symptoms can help individuals take prompt action and prevent the condition from worsening.
Common Early Symptoms of Hemorrhoids
- Itching or irritation in the anal area
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements
- Discomfort or pain in the anal region
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful
If any of these symptoms are experienced, especially after heavy lifting sessions, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional. Early intervention can prevent the progression of hemorrhoids and allow for continued safe exercise practices.
Dietary Considerations for Weightlifters Prone to Hemorrhoids
Diet plays a significant role in both preventing and managing hemorrhoids, particularly for those who engage in weightlifting. A well-balanced diet can help maintain healthy bowel movements, reduce strain during defecation, and support overall digestive health.
Key Dietary Elements for Hemorrhoid Prevention
- High-fiber foods: Fruits, vegetables, whole grains
- Adequate hydration: At least 8 glasses of water daily
- Lean proteins: Support muscle recovery without straining digestion
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Help reduce inflammation
- Probiotic-rich foods: Support gut health
Incorporating these elements into a weightlifter’s diet can significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhoid development and aid in managing existing conditions.
Foods to Avoid
- Processed foods high in salt
- Excessive caffeine and alcohol
- Spicy foods that may irritate the digestive system
- Foods known to cause constipation
By maintaining a balanced diet tailored to support both weightlifting goals and digestive health, individuals can enjoy their fitness routine while minimizing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Alternative Strength Training Methods for Those with Hemorrhoids
For individuals dealing with hemorrhoids or those at high risk, traditional weightlifting might need to be modified or temporarily replaced with alternative strength training methods. These alternatives can help maintain muscle strength and fitness levels while reducing the risk of exacerbating hemorrhoid symptoms.
Effective Low-Impact Strength Training Options
- Resistance band exercises
- Bodyweight exercises
- Pilates
- Isometric exercises
- Water-based resistance training
These methods provide effective strength training while minimizing the strain and pressure associated with heavy weightlifting. They allow individuals to maintain their fitness regimen without compromising their health or exacerbating hemorrhoid symptoms.
Benefits of Alternative Strength Training
- Reduced abdominal pressure
- Lower risk of straining
- Improved overall body awareness and control
- Enhanced flexibility and core strength
- Gentle on joints and muscles
By incorporating these alternative methods, individuals can continue to work towards their fitness goals while managing or preventing hemorrhoids effectively.
The Importance of Professional Guidance for Weightlifters with Hemorrhoid Concerns
When it comes to balancing weightlifting and hemorrhoid prevention or management, seeking professional guidance is crucial. This is particularly important for individuals with a history of hemorrhoids or those experiencing symptoms.
Benefits of Consulting Healthcare Professionals
- Personalized risk assessment
- Tailored exercise recommendations
- Proper technique instruction
- Early detection and treatment of hemorrhoids
- Comprehensive management plans
Healthcare professionals, such as colorectal surgeons, gastroenterologists, and sports medicine specialists, can provide valuable insights and strategies for safe weightlifting practices. They can help develop a workout plan that aligns with an individual’s fitness goals while minimizing the risk of hemorrhoid development or exacerbation.
When to Seek Professional Help
- Before starting a new weightlifting routine
- If experiencing any symptoms of hemorrhoids
- When returning to weightlifting after hemorrhoid treatment
- If current techniques are causing discomfort or concern
- For regular check-ups to monitor rectal health
By working closely with healthcare professionals, weightlifters can ensure they’re taking all necessary precautions to maintain their rectal health while pursuing their fitness objectives.
Long-Term Strategies for Balancing Weightlifting and Hemorrhoid Prevention
Maintaining a successful weightlifting routine while preventing hemorrhoids requires a long-term, comprehensive approach. This strategy should encompass various aspects of health and fitness, ensuring that individuals can continue their strength training journey without compromising their rectal health.
Key Components of a Long-Term Prevention Strategy
- Regular health check-ups and screenings
- Ongoing education about proper lifting techniques
- Gradual progression in weightlifting intensity
- Incorporation of complementary exercises for overall health
- Stress management techniques
- Consistent dietary habits supporting digestive health
By implementing these strategies, weightlifters can create a sustainable approach to their fitness routine that prioritizes both strength gains and hemorrhoid prevention.
Adapting the Strategy Over Time
As individuals age or their fitness levels change, it’s important to adapt their prevention strategies accordingly. This may involve:
- Modifying workout intensity and frequency
- Adjusting dietary plans to meet changing nutritional needs
- Incorporating new preventive exercises or techniques
- Reassessing risk factors with healthcare professionals
- Staying informed about new research and recommendations
By remaining flexible and proactive in their approach, weightlifters can enjoy the benefits of their chosen exercise form while effectively managing the risk of hemorrhoids over the long term.
Heavy Lifting and Hemorrhoids ǀ Hemorrhoid Surgeon MD
Whether you are lifting a piece of heavy furniture or lifting weights, lifting too much weight can lead to a common condition called hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are enlarged veins in the anus or lower rectum, and can be made worse by frequent heavy lifting or holding your breath when lifting heavy objects. This can cause a sudden increase of pressure in blood vessels.
The best way to avoid the development of hemorrhoids is by using some basic lifting and breathing techniques that will minimize your risk. Our experienced colorectal surgeons and gastroenterologists at the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence can help with hemorrhoid prevention in Los Angeles by calling (888) 742-2032.
How Heavy Lifting Worsens Hemorrhoids
When lifting heavy objects, like weights, many people have a tendency to hold their breath and strain. Grunting as you hold your breath will force the air in your lungs down, increasing the pressure on your internal organs and, ultimately, the veins near your rectum that can swell and protrude as uncomfortable hemorrhoids. This buildup of abdominal pressure is similar to the pressure created when you strain to have a bowel movement, which is one of the most frequent causes of hemorrhoids.
In many cases, exercise is beneficial for patients who suffer from hemorrhoids; however, make sure to utilize techniques that will minimize the risk of your hemorrhoids worsening.
What Type of Exercise Is Beneficial for Hemorrhoids?
Regular exercise is beneficial when you are suffering from hemorrhoids. While weightlifting might be limited when dealing with hemorrhoids, but yoga and walking provide good forms of exercise that can help you prevent and relieve hemorrhoid symptoms. Try taking a 30-minute walk each morning, and perform exercises throughout the day that contract and release your perineal muscles.
A good exercise to work your perineal muscle is known as Kegal exercises. Contract the perineum for four seconds, and then release. This is considered one set. Do 10 to 15 sets at a time, two to three times a day. Increase the amount of time you hold the muscles by two seconds every two weeks until you reach 10 seconds. Once you are proficient, 10 to 25 sets a day should be enough.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids When Lifting
Reducing your risk of hemorrhoids during weight lifting is all about how you inhale and exhale. Rather than pushing your breath down under the stress of heavy weights, make an effort to push that air up towards your throat. Before each lift, take a breath and hold it, pushing the air upwards as you lift the weight. If you are lifting weights during a workout, after each rep, exhale your breath completely and start the process over.
By implementing this breathing technique, you will reduce the pressure you place on your abdominal organs as you strain against that heavy barbell or bench press, which can help you avoid hemorrhoids and other conditions such as hernias.
If you have a history of heavy lifting and hemorrhoids, it’s recommended that you speak with one of our hemorrhoid doctors in Beverly Hills before starting strength training or weight lifting, in order to avoid the risk of injury and hemorrhoid recurrence.
Contact the Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence Today
By making changes to your heavy lifting routine, you can reduce the chance of causing or worsening your hemorrhoids. If you’re currently suffering from hemorrhoids or want to know more about hemorrhoid prevention in Los Angeles, feel free to schedule an appointment at the La Peer Health Systems’ Hemorrhoid Center of Excellence by calling (888) 742-2032.
Next, read about how age increases your risk for hemorrhoids.
Weightlifters and Hemorrhoids: Lisa A. Perryman, MD, FACS, FASCRS: Colon and Rectal Surgeon
When it comes to fitness and health, lifting weights regularly paired with good nutrition can create lasting results. Being dedicated to this method of exercise can benefit our entire mind, body and spiritual health. It can control body weight issues, keep us focused and relaxed, and make us strong. Sounds pretty positive, right? Sure, but are there any negatives to lifting weights?
Lifting Weights Can Lead to Hemorrhoids
Incorrect movement can cause injury and unnecessary pain. Regularly lifting heavy objects that our bodies can’t handle may lead to obvious pulled muscles and aching bones. There’s also something else that most of us don’t like to talk about. Hemorrhoids! Yup, those pesky “piles” that come with unpleasant circumstances (bleeding, itching, pain) can be caused by improper weight lifting.
How Hemorrhoids Develop from Lifting Heavy Objects
Weight lifting itself isn’t the cause of hemorrhoids – they are a result of poor technique! It is more difficult than we think to lift weights correctly. People frequently hold their breath and strain as they lift heavy weights. Holding your breath and grunting (you know, you’ve heard that person at the gym) will force the air down into your lungs while increasing the pressure on your internal organs, thus creating the veins near your rectum to swell into hemorrhoids.
The process of creating unwanted pressure in your abdomen is similar to the strain you may have experienced when trying to have an uneasy bowel movement (which is also one of the most common causes of hemorrhoids). This lack of proper breathing can happen when lifting heavy objects in your everyday life, too, not necessarily barbells or weights, but a piece of furniture perhaps. Sometimes we think we can handle more weight than our body can, which can cause the straining mentioned above.
How to Prevent Hemorrhoids When Lifting Weights–Just Breathe!
Learning how to breathe properly during weight training is very important in reducing the risk of hemorrhoids. Certified personal trainers and exercise professionals are trained on the mechanics of proper breathing during exercise, so make sure you ask a professional. If you lift on your own, or have already been educated on these breathing methods, remember to consistently inhale and exhale. We often take for granted the power of a simple breath.
So, 1) don’t think you’re Hercules, and 2) breathe when lifting something heavy.
Can I lift weights with hemorrhoids?
If you are currently experiencing painful hemorrhoids, weight lifting is not recommended.
Lifting with hemorrhoids will only prolong the healing process, and can make those bothersome hemorrhoids worse. However, other exercise such as walking, stretching, or even a yoga class may even relieve some of the symptoms.
Anytime you have bleeding, feel a lump in the anal area, or have rectal pain you should see a colorectal specialist to rule out a more serious condition. More than likely these issues are symptomatic to hemorrhoids, but it is always good to check with your doctor. If you have already been diagnosed with hemorrhoids, and your symptoms are lingering–schedule an appointment.
What are hemorrhoids? What are the symptoms? When should you see a colorectal specialist?
Hemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. Hemorrhoids may be internal or external. Symptoms include:
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- Protrusion of skin around the anus during bowel movements
- Itching in the anal area
- Pain in the anal area
- Sensitive lump(s)
For more detailed information on hemorrhoids go to: https://coloradocolonandrectalspecialists. com/ hemorrhoids-treatment/.
Caring for Hemorrhoids at Home
Although hemorrhoids will never go away on their own completely, you might try some of these tips at home to reduce inflammation and provide temporary pain relief:
- Sit in a tub of warm water for 15 minutes at a time.
- Wrap a cold pack with a towel. Carefully sit on it for 20 minutes at a time to reduce hemorrhoidal inflammation.
- Don’t strain or sit on the toilet for too long. This puts more pressure on the area and can increase pain.
If the above measures aren’t working for you and those unwanted hemorrhoids rear their ugly heads (pun intended), Dr. Perryman is here to discuss personalized treatment options while making you more comfortable to live your life as YOU want to!
For now, keep your squats low, your standards high, and remember to always BREATHE!
Contact Dr. Lisa A. Perryman, board certified colon & rectal surgeon at (303)840-8822, or request an appointment on our contact page.
Surgical Treatment to Repair Anal Fissures
While an anal fissure can be a short-lived, self-healing condition, some turn into chronic, persistent problems. Acute anal fissures can cause severe pain. Whether acute or chronic, surgery may be the right choice to promote healing.
Surgical Treatment for Fistulas
Following an anal abscess, your chances of developing an anal fistula increase dramatically. An abnormal opening connecting the anal canal with the surface of the buttocks, a fistula won’t heal spontaneously. You’ll need surgery to cure the problem.
Rectal Bleeding Without Hemorrhoids: 3 Known Causes
It’s never a comfortable feeling to find signs of blood after a bowel movement. While it’s common with some types of hemorrhoids, it can also be a symptom of other colorectal issues. Here are three other causes of rectal bleeding.
Pilonidal Cleft Lift Surgery
Pilonidal disease is a chronic infection of the skin near the top of the crease of the buttocks. Sometimes misdiagnosed as ingrown hair or a pilonidal cyst, the disease often creates a cavity, or sinus, below the skin that requires surgery to correct.
2 Types of Hemorrhoids and What They Mean
About half of all Americans experience hemorrhoids by the time they reach the age of 50. Caused by swollen vascular tissue at the end of the digestive tract, hemorrhoids’ symptoms range from annoying to quite painful. Read on to learn more about the two ty
Anal Warts vs. Tags: How to Tell the Difference
It’s important to differentiate between anal skin tags and anal warts, as one is infectious and can be passed to others. Avoid attempting self-diagnosis and rely on the help of a physician trained in recognizing these two conditions.
6 common causes of hemorrhoids | MAJOR CLINIC
Contents
- Hemorrhoids and its causes
- The main causes contributing to the development of hemorrhoids
- Locks
- Physical inactivity
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Heavy physical labor
- Poor nutrition
- Heredity
- Manifestations of hemorrhoids
- Treatment of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur in 35% of the inhabitants of economically developed regions and are the leaders among proctological diseases [1]. Pathology has been known since antiquity, its description is found in the medical writings of the Greeks, Egyptians, Hindus and other peoples. The name of the disease comes from two Greek words: haema and rheos, meaning “blood” and “flowing”, respectively. The term was first used by Hippocrates, describing bleeding from the anus [2].
Hemorrhoids occur in men and women, predominantly in young people, so the problem is considered socially and economically significant
Hemorrhoids and its causes
The disease occurs due to a complex of anatomical and functional changes, including varicose veins, vascular thrombosis, degeneration of collagen-fibrous fibers, deformity of the anal muscle [3]. Contribute to the development of the disease inflammatory changes in blood vessels and connective tissue of the perianal region [4] impaired defecation, decreased stool [5].
It is believed that dietary factors can provoke hemorrhoids, there is still no direct confirmation of this [6], however, nutrition affects the nature and frequency of stools. The disease progresses with an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, impaired hemodynamics of the small pelvis. At the same time, the veins of the rectum experience exorbitant loads and stretch, hemorrhoids appear.
The main causes contributing to the development of hemorrhoids
Reason No. 1:
Constipation. Arise in connection with poor nutrition, chronic stress, low physical activity. As a result, the peristaltic movements of the intestines slow down, the stool becomes rare. The pressure of the contents of the intestine on its walls increases, the outflow of blood is disturbed, leading to overstretching of the veins of the anus.
Table No. 1. Factors contributing to the occurrence of constipation
Factor | Description |
Food | Predominance of refined products. Excessive consumption of meat, especially fatty varieties, beef. Lack of water in the diet. |
Chronic stress | A state of prolonged dissatisfaction in professional or personal life. |
Lack of physical activity | Sedentary work: driver, driver, office. |
Reason #2:
Physical inactivity. Modern life requires high speeds and rapid movement from point A to point B. For this, people use transport. Walking several kilometers on foot is considered a waste of time. Few people play sports, regularly run or take daily long walks.
A sedentary lifestyle causes stagnation of blood in the pelvis. The outflow of blood from the veins of the anus is difficult, which leads to their expansion.
Reason #3:
Pregnancy and childbirth. The multiplying uterus compresses nearby organs, including the intestines and veins. Blood circulation becomes difficult, intra-abdominal pressure rises. During labor pains, the load on the organs and squeezing of the vessels reach a peak, ruptures of the perineal tissues may occur. All this leads to a violation of hemodynamics and hemorrhoids.
Reason #4:
Hard physical labor. Lifting weights is always accompanied by overload on the muscles of the abdominal wall, resulting in increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, increased blood flow. If high physical activity is regular, hemorrhoids will develop with a high degree of probability. At risk are loaders, couriers, delivery and warehouse workers.
Reason No. 5:
Poor nutrition – snacks on the run, fast food, fatty high-calorie foods, foods rich in simple carbohydrates. Low consumption of fiber and dietary fiber disrupt digestion, slow down the evacuation of the food bolus. Plus, many people are prone to overeating, gaining excess weight.
Reason No. 6:
Heredity. A tendency to hemorrhoids is genetically transmitted due to the peculiarities of the structure of the vascular walls, intestines and digestion. If relatives had hemorrhoids, then you need to take your health seriously: try to eliminate or minimize the factors that lead to the disease.
Manifestations of hemorrhoids
The following signs indicate hemorrhoids:
- pain, discomfort in the anal region,
- painful bowel movements;
- fresh blood on stool;
- feeling of a foreign body in the rectum;
- Perineal itch.
Table No. 2. Types and stages of hemorrhoids [7]
Classification | View | Features |
Downstream | Spicy | Sharp pain during defecation, persisting for some time afterwards. Blood on the surface of the stool. Painful induration near the anus. |
Chronic | The pain is of low intensity. Blood is found on used toilet paper, or in drops, a trickle. Periodic prolapse of hemorrhoids. | |
According to the location of hemorrhoids | Outdoor | Hemorrhoids are visible externally. |
Internal | The nodes are “hidden” in the rectum, they are not externally determined. | |
By stage | C1 | Periodic pain during defecation. |
C2 | Pain is severe, blood on the surface of the stool. Knots can periodically fall out, set on their own. | |
C3 | The pain is prolonged, intense. Itching and burning in the anal region. Knots fall out often, require repositioning. | |
C4 | It is not possible to straighten the nodes that have fallen out on their own. Medical assistance required. |
Exacerbation of hemorrhoids occurs after significant physical effort, spicy fatty foods, alcohol intake.
Treatment of hemorrhoids
Carried out by a coloproctologist. You should not self-medicate: folk methods and medicines bought on the advice of friends can relieve pain for a while, but they will not solve the problem. The doctor will assess the situation, determine the causes and conduct effective treatment of hemorrhoids. At the initial stages, local remedies are prescribed: rectal suppositories, ointments, herbal infusions. If symptoms are severe, medication may be needed. In advanced cases, in the presence of nodes, it is necessary to resort to surgical treatment.
We invite you to get rid of hemorrhoids in the Major Clinic, conveniently located in the center of Moscow. Highly qualified coloproctologists who know all the methods of diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids, including surgical ones, will help to solve a delicate problem. The clinic has a full-fledged hospital with two modern operating rooms equipped with modern equipment. If necessary, the operation is performed quickly, without pain and discomfort.
References
- Johanson J.
F., Sonnenberg A. The prevalence of hemorrhoids and chronic constipation. An epidemiological study // Gastroenterology. 1990; 98:380–386.
- Leff E. Hemorrhoids // Postgrad Med. 1987; 82:95–101.
- Hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and approaches to therapy, Attending physician 6/14. Authors M. A. Livzan, V. L. Poluektov, E. A. Lyalyukova.
- Han W., Wang Z. J., Zhao B., Yang X. Q., Wang D., Wang J. P., Tang X. Y., Zhao F., Hung Y. T. Pathologic change of elastic fibers with difference of microvessel density and expression of angiogenesis-related proteins in internal hemorrhoid tissues // Zhonghua Weichang Waike Zazhi. 2005; 8:56–59.
- Johanson J. F., Sonnenberg A. The prevalence of hemorrhoids and chronic constipation. An epidemiological study // Gastroenterology. 1990; 98:380–386.
- Pigot F., Siproudhis L., Allaert F. A. Risk factors associated with hemorrhoidal symptoms in specialized consultation // Gastroenterol Clin Biol. 2005; 29:1270–1274.
- Clinical guidelines. Coloproctology. – M.: GEOTAR-Media, 2015 – 528 p.
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Make an appointment
6 common causes of hemorrhoids | MAJOR CLINIC
Contents
- Hemorrhoids and its causes
- The main causes contributing to the development of hemorrhoids
- Locks
- Physical inactivity
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Heavy physical labor
- Poor nutrition
- Heredity
- Manifestations of hemorrhoids
- Treatment of hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids occur in 35% of the inhabitants of economically developed regions and is the leader among proctological diseases [1]. Pathology has been known since antiquity, its description is found in the medical writings of the Greeks, Egyptians, Hindus and other peoples. The name of the disease comes from two Greek words: haema and rheos, meaning “blood” and “flowing”, respectively. The term was first used by Hippocrates, describing bleeding from the anus [2].
Hemorrhoids occur in men and women, predominantly in young people, so the problem is considered socially and economically significant
Hemorrhoids and its causes
The disease occurs due to a complex of anatomical and functional changes, including varicose veins, vascular thrombosis, degeneration of collagen-fibrous fibers, deformity of the anal muscle [3]. Contribute to the development of the disease inflammatory changes in blood vessels and connective tissue of the perianal region [4] impaired defecation, decreased stool [5].
It is believed that dietary factors can provoke hemorrhoids, there is still no direct confirmation of this [6], however, nutrition affects the nature and frequency of stools. The disease progresses with an increase in intra-abdominal pressure, impaired hemodynamics of the small pelvis. At the same time, the veins of the rectum experience exorbitant loads and stretch, hemorrhoids appear.
The main causes contributing to the development of hemorrhoids
Reason No. 1:
Constipation. Arise in connection with poor nutrition, chronic stress, low physical activity. As a result, the peristaltic movements of the intestines slow down, the stool becomes rare. The pressure of the contents of the intestine on its walls increases, the outflow of blood is disturbed, leading to overstretching of the veins of the anus.
Table No. 1. Factors contributing to the occurrence of constipation
Factor | Description |
Food | Predominance of refined products. Excessive consumption of meat, especially fatty varieties, beef. Lack of water in the diet. |
Chronic stress | A state of prolonged dissatisfaction in professional or personal life. |
Lack of physical activity | Sedentary work: driver, driver, office. Lack of physical education and sports. Physical inactivity. |
Reason #2:
Physical inactivity. Modern life requires high speeds and rapid movement from point A to point B. For this, people use transport. Walking several kilometers on foot is considered a waste of time. Few people play sports, regularly run or take daily long walks.
A sedentary lifestyle causes stagnation of blood in the pelvis. The outflow of blood from the veins of the anus is difficult, which leads to their expansion.
Reason #3:
Pregnancy and childbirth. The multiplying uterus compresses nearby organs, including the intestines and veins. Blood circulation becomes difficult, intra-abdominal pressure rises. During labor pains, the load on the organs and squeezing of the vessels reach a peak, ruptures of the perineal tissues may occur. All this leads to a violation of hemodynamics and hemorrhoids.
Reason #4:
Hard physical labor. Lifting weights is always accompanied by overload on the muscles of the abdominal wall, resulting in increased pressure in the abdominal cavity, increased blood flow. If high physical activity is regular, hemorrhoids will develop with a high degree of probability. At risk are loaders, couriers, delivery and warehouse workers.
Reason No. 5:
Poor nutrition – snacks on the run, fast food, fatty high-calorie foods, foods rich in simple carbohydrates. Low consumption of fiber and dietary fiber disrupt digestion, slow down the evacuation of the food bolus. Plus, many people are prone to overeating, gaining excess weight.
Reason No. 6:
Heredity. A tendency to hemorrhoids is genetically transmitted due to the peculiarities of the structure of the vascular walls, intestines and digestion. If relatives had hemorrhoids, then you need to take your health seriously: try to eliminate or minimize the factors that lead to the disease.
Manifestations of hemorrhoids
The following signs indicate hemorrhoids:
- pain, discomfort in the anal region,
- painful bowel movements;
- fresh blood on stool;
- feeling of a foreign body in the rectum;
- Perineal itch.
Table No. 2. Types and stages of hemorrhoids [7]
Classification | View | Features |
Downstream | Spicy | Sharp pain during defecation, persisting for some time afterwards. Blood on the surface of the stool. Painful induration near the anus. |
Chronic | The pain is of low intensity. Blood is found on used toilet paper, or in drops, a trickle. | |
According to the location of hemorrhoids | Outdoor | Hemorrhoids are visible externally. |
Internal | The nodes are “hidden” in the rectum, they are not externally determined. | |
By stage | C1 | Periodic pain during defecation. |
C2 | Pain is severe, blood on the surface of the stool. Knots can periodically fall out, set on their own. | |
C3 | The pain is prolonged, intense. Itching and burning in the anal region. Knots fall out often, require repositioning. | |
C4 | It is not possible to straighten the nodes that have fallen out on their own. Medical assistance required. |
Exacerbation of hemorrhoids occurs after significant physical effort, spicy fatty foods, alcohol intake.
Treatment of hemorrhoids
Carried out by a coloproctologist. You should not self-medicate: folk methods and medicines bought on the advice of friends can relieve pain for a while, but they will not solve the problem. The doctor will assess the situation, determine the causes and conduct effective treatment of hemorrhoids. At the initial stages, local remedies are prescribed: rectal suppositories, ointments, herbal infusions. If symptoms are severe, medication may be needed. In advanced cases, in the presence of nodes, it is necessary to resort to surgical treatment.
We invite you to get rid of hemorrhoids in the Major Clinic, conveniently located in the center of Moscow. Highly qualified coloproctologists who know all the methods of diagnosing and treating hemorrhoids, including surgical ones, will help to solve a delicate problem. The clinic has a full-fledged hospital with two modern operating rooms equipped with modern equipment. If necessary, the operation is performed quickly, without pain and discomfort.
References
- Johanson J. F., Sonnenberg A. The prevalence of hemorrhoids and chronic constipation. An epidemiological study // Gastroenterology. 1990; 98:380–386.
- Leff E. Hemorrhoids // Postgrad Med. 1987; 82:95–101.
- Hemorrhoids: causes, symptoms, diagnosis and approaches to therapy, Attending physician 6/14. Authors M. A. Livzan, V. L. Poluektov, E. A. Lyalyukova.
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