Can you get hemorrhoids from lifting. Can Heavy Lifting Cause Hemorrhoids? Understanding the Link and Prevention Methods
How does heavy lifting contribute to hemorrhoid development. What are the best practices for preventing hemorrhoids while weightlifting. Which exercises are beneficial for managing hemorrhoid symptoms. How can proper breathing techniques reduce the risk of hemorrhoids during lifting.
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 phenomenon, known as the Valsalva maneuver, forces air in the lungs downward, increasing pressure on internal organs and the veins near the rectum. The result is a buildup of abdominal pressure similar to that experienced during strained bowel movements, a well-known cause of hemorrhoids.
Identifying the Risks: How Weightlifting Can Worsen Hemorrhoids
While exercise is generally beneficial for overall health, certain types of physical activity can pose risks for those prone to hemorrhoids. Weightlifting, in particular, can be problematic if not performed correctly. The act of grunting and holding one’s breath during lifts can force air downwards, increasing pressure on the rectal veins and potentially causing them to swell and protrude.
Is weightlifting entirely off-limits for those concerned about hemorrhoids? Not necessarily. The key lies in proper technique and awareness of one’s body. By implementing correct breathing methods and avoiding excessive strain, individuals can continue to enjoy the benefits of strength training while minimizing the risk of hemorrhoid development or exacerbation.
Preventive Measures: Proper Lifting Techniques to Avoid Hemorrhoids
Preventing hemorrhoids during weightlifting revolves around proper breathing techniques. Instead of pushing breath downward under the stress of heavy weights, focus on directing the air upwards towards the throat. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help reduce the risk:
- Before each lift, take a deep breath and hold it.
- As you lift the weight, push the air upwards rather than down.
- After each repetition, exhale completely.
- Repeat the process for each subsequent lift.
By adopting this breathing technique, you can significantly reduce the pressure placed on your abdominal organs during strenuous lifts. 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, other forms of exercise can be highly beneficial. Yoga and walking, for instance, provide excellent low-impact options that can help prevent and relieve hemorrhoid symptoms.
One particularly effective exercise for hemorrhoid management is the Kegel exercise, which targets the perineal muscles. Here’s how to perform Kegel exercises:
- 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 until you reach 10 seconds.
- Once proficient, aim for 10 to 25 sets daily.
Regular practice of these exercises can significantly improve muscle tone in the affected area, potentially reducing the risk of hemorrhoid development or recurrence.
The Role of Breathing in Hemorrhoid Prevention During Lifting
Proper breathing techniques play a crucial role in preventing hemorrhoids during weightlifting. Instead of holding your breath and creating downward pressure, focus on controlled inhalation and exhalation. This approach helps maintain steady intra-abdominal pressure, reducing strain on the rectal veins.
How can you implement effective breathing during lifts? Try this method:
- Inhale deeply before initiating the lift.
- As you begin to lift, exhale slowly and steadily through pursed lips.
- Continue exhaling throughout the lift, avoiding any breath-holding.
- Inhale again as you lower the weight or return to the starting position.
By maintaining this breathing pattern, you can help minimize the risk of hemorrhoid development or aggravation during strength training sessions.
Understanding the Impact of Different Exercise Types on Hemorrhoids
Not all exercises carry the same risk when it comes to hemorrhoid development or exacerbation. While heavy weightlifting can potentially increase the likelihood of hemorrhoids, other forms of physical activity may actually help alleviate symptoms and promote overall rectal health.
Low-Impact Exercises Beneficial for Hemorrhoid Management:
- Swimming: The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on the rectal area while providing a full-body workout.
- Cycling: When done with proper form and a comfortable seat, cycling can improve circulation without putting excess strain on the anal region.
- Pilates: Core-strengthening exercises can help improve overall muscle tone and support, potentially reducing hemorrhoid risk.
- Tai Chi: This gentle, flowing exercise form promotes relaxation and improved circulation throughout the body.
How do these exercises benefit those prone to hemorrhoids? By promoting healthy blood flow, reducing overall body tension, and strengthening supporting muscles, these activities can help maintain rectal health without the risks associated with heavy lifting.
Dietary Considerations for Hemorrhoid Prevention in Active Individuals
While exercise plays a significant role in hemorrhoid prevention and management, diet is equally important, especially for those engaged in regular physical activity. A balanced diet rich in fiber and adequate hydration can significantly reduce the risk of hemorrhoid development, even among weightlifters and other athletes.
Key Dietary Recommendations for Hemorrhoid Prevention:
- Increase fiber intake: Aim for 25-30 grams of fiber daily from sources such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
- Stay hydrated: Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day to maintain soft, easy-to-pass stools.
- Limit processed foods: These often lack fiber and can contribute to constipation, a major risk factor for hemorrhoids.
- Consider fiber supplements: If dietary changes aren’t sufficient, psyllium husk or other fiber supplements may be beneficial.
How does diet impact hemorrhoid risk in active individuals? A high-fiber, well-hydrated diet helps prevent constipation and reduces straining during bowel movements, which is particularly important for those engaging in strenuous physical activities that may already increase pressure in the rectal area.
The Importance of Recovery and Rest in Hemorrhoid Prevention
While regular exercise is crucial for overall health and can even help prevent hemorrhoids, adequate recovery and rest periods are equally important, especially for those engaged in heavy lifting or intense workouts. Overtraining and insufficient recovery time can lead to increased muscle tension and potentially exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms.
Strategies for Effective Recovery:
- Implement rest days: Allow at least one or two days per week for complete rest from strenuous activities.
- Practice active recovery: On non-training days, engage in light activities like walking or gentle stretching to promote blood flow without strain.
- Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night to support overall recovery and reduce inflammation.
- Use relaxation techniques: Practices like meditation or deep breathing can help reduce overall body tension, potentially benefiting rectal health.
How does proper recovery impact hemorrhoid risk? By allowing the body adequate time to repair and rejuvenate, you reduce overall inflammation and muscle tension, which can help minimize pressure on the rectal area and reduce the likelihood of hemorrhoid development or exacerbation.
When to Seek Professional Help for Hemorrhoids
While many cases of hemorrhoids can be managed through lifestyle modifications and proper exercise techniques, there are instances where professional medical attention is necessary. Recognizing the signs that indicate a need for medical intervention is crucial for preventing more serious complications.
Signs That Warrant Medical Attention:
- Persistent bleeding during bowel movements
- Severe pain or discomfort that doesn’t respond to home treatments
- Noticeable lumps or protrusions around the anus that don’t resolve
- Changes in bowel habits or stool consistency that last more than a week
- Any symptoms that interfere significantly with daily activities or quality of life
What can a healthcare professional offer for hemorrhoid treatment? A doctor can provide a proper diagnosis, rule out more serious conditions, and offer advanced treatment options such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or in severe cases, surgical intervention. They can also provide personalized advice on exercise modifications and lifestyle changes to prevent future occurrences.
For individuals with a history of hemorrhoids who wish to engage in heavy lifting or intense workouts, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen is advisable. They can offer tailored recommendations to minimize the risk of hemorrhoid recurrence while allowing you to pursue your fitness goals safely.
Innovative Approaches to Hemorrhoid Management for Active Individuals
As our understanding of hemorrhoid prevention and treatment evolves, new approaches are emerging that can be particularly beneficial for active individuals and those who engage in heavy lifting. These innovative methods combine traditional wisdom with modern technology to provide comprehensive solutions for hemorrhoid management.
Cutting-Edge Strategies for Hemorrhoid Prevention and Treatment:
- Biofeedback training: This technique helps individuals gain better control over their pelvic floor muscles, potentially reducing the risk of hemorrhoid development during strenuous activities.
- Pelvic floor physiotherapy: Specialized exercises and techniques taught by trained physiotherapists can improve muscle tone and function in the rectal area.
- Advanced compression gear: High-tech compression shorts or specialized supports designed for weightlifters can help maintain proper intra-abdominal pressure during lifts.
- Nutritional supplements: Certain supplements, such as horse chestnut extract or flavonoids, may help improve vein health and reduce hemorrhoid symptoms.
- Mindfulness-based stress reduction: Incorporating mindfulness techniques into workout routines can help reduce overall body tension and promote better form during lifts.
How can these innovative approaches benefit active individuals prone to hemorrhoids? By addressing the multifaceted nature of hemorrhoid development, these strategies provide a comprehensive approach to prevention and management. They allow individuals to maintain an active lifestyle while minimizing the risk of hemorrhoid-related complications.
It’s important to note that while these approaches show promise, they should be implemented under the guidance of healthcare professionals. Each individual’s situation is unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before incorporating new treatments or significant changes to your exercise routine, especially if you have a history of hemorrhoids or other rectal health issues.
By staying informed about the latest developments in hemorrhoid management and working closely with healthcare professionals, active individuals can continue to pursue their fitness goals while maintaining optimal rectal health. Remember, the key to success lies in a balanced approach that considers both prevention and prompt treatment when necessary.
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. 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. 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.
Appointment and details by phone: +7 (495) 025 01 01
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. 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.