Hemorrhoids from Lifting Weights: What You Need to Know

Did you know that you can get hemorrhoids from lifting weights if your load is too heavy or your form is incorrect? Also, if you already have hemorrhoids, lifting weights can worsen your condition if you don’t take proper care. So, if you want to engage in strength training without developing swollen veins in or around your rectum, follow the precautions highlighted in this post and speak to a healthcare professional before starting any new exercise routine.

How Could You Get Hemorrhoids from Lifting Weights?

Several common mistakes that weightlifters make could cause hemorrhoids to develop or worsen. But what are those mistakes?

Choosing weights that are too heavy

You can get hemorrhoids from lifting if you choose weights that are so heavy, you have to strain when picking them up. That straining can put pressure on the abdomen and rectum. In turn, there will be addition strain on the blood vessels in those areas, which could cause them to swell, leading to new or worsening hemorrhoids (also known as piles.)

Messing up on form

In lifting, your form describes the technique you use to get weights off the ground. Proper form can help prevent hemorrhoid formation by keep stress off your lower abdomen and rectum. To stay safe, make sure to bend the knees before taking weights off the ground. Keep your back flat and don’t round your shoulders during the lift. Move smoothly, avoiding any jerking motions when possible. And throughout the movement, make sure to breathe steadily, since holding your breath increases the amount of pressure hitting your lower body, thereby increasing your risk for hemorrhoid formation.  

Stay Safe when Lifting Weights with These Hemorrhoid Prevention Tips

Whether you’re new to weight lifting or simply trying to increase the load you’re working with, slow progress is key to preventing hemorrhoids. Don’t lift the heaviest weight you can handle on your very first training session, and limit yourself to 12 repetitions in each set to avoid straining yourself. Be sure to engage in other forms of exercise to help strengthen muscles that can support your weight lifting. And always make sure you’re drinking lots of fluids after any exercise session, since dehydration can lead to constipation, another risk factor for hemorrhoids.

Living with Hemorrhoids: When to Seek Medical Attention

Even if you get hemorrhoids from lifting weights, these swollen veins don’t typically pose a serious threat to your health. However, your hemorrhoid symptoms could include itching, pain or bleeding with bowel movements, interfering with your quality of life and causing discomfort as you try to make it through your daily activities.

Luckily, you don’t have to live with these hemorrhoid symptoms, and you no longer need to seek out surgery in order to find lasting relief. Here at the Georgia Hemorrhoid Institute, we can treat your piles with Hemorrhoid Artery Embolization (HAE), shrinking them by cutting off their blood supply using minimally invasive interventional radiology techniques.  You can request a consultation today to learn more about this treatment option.