Exercise and Hemorrhoids
Did you know that an increase in intra-abdominal pressure can cause or aggravate hemorrhoids? The anus is part of the abdominal cavity. High pressure compresses anal veins, which react by swelling. A swollen vein cannot return blood to the heart efficiently. Here is a list of activities and conditions that cause high intra-abdominal pressure, and ways you can avoid getting hemorrhoids.
Weightlifting using poor technique is the cause of many sudden hemorrhoids. Be sure to exhale fully on the lift: never hold your breath.
Every couple of hours, do ten sets of Kegels. Focus on holding each squeeze for at least six seconds, working up to ten. Pilates pelvic floor exercises also strengthen the abdominal muscles and pelvic floor, helping you lift without straining.
If you already have a hemorrhoid caused by exertion, try an ointment containing the herb arnica montana, which is proven to heal inflammation and broken blood vessels. Don't use raw arnica, as it may be toxic.
Prolonged constipation is another cause of high intra-abdominal pressure. Hardened feces pressing down on the rectum can lead to enlarged anal veins. Swollen veins are more easily bruised and torn during bowel movements. To overcome constipation, eat more fruits and green leafy vegetables, drink at least one cup of water per hour, and add a cup of oatmeal or other whole grain to your daily diet.
If you still need extra help moving your bowels, try a teaspoon of psyllium husk or flaxseed at night with two glasses of water.
Severe diarrhea can also cause high anal pressure due to cramping and expulsion of liquid. People with irritable bowel disorder, who experience alternating constipation and diarrhea, typically get hemorrhoids and anal fissures (tears in the anal membrane). To ease a bout of diarrhea, add banana, potatoes and rice to your diet.
Consult a doctor to help manage chronic diarrhea caused by other conditions such as gallstones, Crohn's, and diverticulosis. Dietary supplements may be useful in helping to control your condition. Soothing ointments can give your tissues protection they need to heal.
Portal hypertension, which often results from a large blood clot or liver disease, can also raise abdominal pressure by accumulating fluid in the abdominal cavity. The underlying disease must be treated in order to relieve hemorrhoids. For hemorrhoids caused by portal hypertension, avoid herbal dietary supplements unless your doctor approves.
High intra-abdominal pressure can lead to hemorrhoids. Keep these tips in mind and prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups.
Benefits of Hemorrhoid Massage
Unique Anal Exerciser Featured in msnbc.com and the American Chiropractor
Women have their Kegelcizers, FemTone weights, and other vaginal devices, which really help isolate and work the specific muscles that aid in supporting the pelvic and abdominal cavity. And everyone by now knows the benefits of these exercises: reduced hemorrhoids, reduced urinary leakage, less chance of uterine and rectal prolapse, and better sexual response.
But what about the unique physiology of men? Pelvic floor weakness in males often presents not only as hemorrhoids, but as erectile dysfunction and prostate problems also. But like women, men often find it difficult to isolate the correct muscles for a pelvic floor workout. How can men achieve stronger pelvic floor muscles and all the benefits that come with these exercisers?
Since it’s been long known that regular, consistent vaginal Kegel exercises are highly effective in eliminating pelvic floor weakness that can lead to hemorrhoids, it was just a matter of time before a specific piece of equipment was developed to tone and strengthen the anal region. Though targeted at men, the Peristal Hemorrhoid Massager is the world’s first and only patented hemorrhoid massage device for both men and women.
A truly revolutionary device, the Peristal is scientifically designed to work with your body’s own natural contractions. Every curve and every angle in the Peristal’s design serves a purpose. To use, simply contract and relax the PC sphincter muscles. No more guessing about which muscles to squeeze and which ones to relax. The Peristal will begin to move on its own, massaging the anorectal tissues and promoting circulation. These regular, involuntary contractions can become quite strong. Regular sessions with the Peristal firm up the numerous small muscles surrounding and inside the pelvic floor.
