The risk of developing hemorrhoids is increased for runners because of the constant pounding on the lower body. The increased intra-abdominal pressure and blood flow to the lower extremities that occur during running contribute to the development of hemorrhoids. To physical discomfort, hemorrhoids can also hurt a runner's mental well-being.
To ease the discomfort of hemorrhoids, runners can apply a soothing coat of Vaseline or Desitin (diaper rash cream). This can help minimize irritation and provide relief.
This blog post covers hemorrhoids in runners, treatment methods, causes, and tips for running with hemorrhoids.
Hemorrhoid Relief for Runners: Treatment Method
Runners can find relief from hemorrhoids through effective home remedies. Experience the benefits of Witch Hazel, indulge in a soothing bath, and maintain a balanced diet. These remedies provide natural solutions to reduce swelling, inflammation, and discomfort associated with hemorrhoids.
Effective Home Remedies
Home Remedies That Provide Effective Hemorrhoid Relief for Runners
Discover the soothing power of Witch Hazel, take a warm Sitz bath, and keep a balanced diet for optimal results.
- Soothing Witch Hazel: As a natural astringent, witch hazel contains tannins and oils that can reduce swelling and inflammation. To treat the affected area, directly apply witch hazel after soaking a clean rag. To relieve hemorrhoid pain, repeat several times per day.
- Warm Sitz Bath: Hemorrhoids can be relieved with a warm sitz bath. Twice a day, soak in warm water in a tub for 10-15 minutes. Thus, the warm water relieves pain and irritation by relaxing the muscles of the anal canal.
- Balanced Diet: Hemorrhoids can be prevented by eating a balanced diet. Consume fruit and vegetables as part of a healthy diet. Softer stools and less strain on the rectum are benefits of fiber, resulting in fewer inflammations and irritations.
Medical Treatment Options for Hemorrhoids in Runners
Hemorrhoids can frustrate and make people uncomfortable. Medical treatment can ease the symptoms of hemorrhoids and improve your running experience. These medical treatment options are listed below, along with their effectiveness.
- Over-the-counter medications: Hemorrhoids can be relieved with over-the-counter medications, such as creams, ointments, and suppositories. These medications are planned with hydrocortisone, witch hazel, and lidocaine to ease pain, inflammation, and itching.
- RubberBand Ligation: A rubber band ligation is an option for runners with more severe hemorrhoids. Rubber bands are tied around the hemorrhoids' bases during the procedure. Because of the band, the hemorrhoid tissue shrinks and dies, reducing inflammation and pain.
- Surgery: A runner with chronic hemorrhoids who has failed to respond to conventional treatment may benefit from surgery. The hemorrhoids are usually removed through a procedure known as a hemorrhoidectomy.
Factors that Increase the Risk for Hemorrhoids in Runners
The risk of hemorrhoids can be increased by certain factors. Hemorrhoids are uncomfortable and can cause pain and irritation during and after running. A list of factors that increase the risk of hemorrhoids in runners is provided below.
Dehydration
When running, the body loses a lot of fluids through sweating, leading to dehydration. Dehydration can cause constipation, leading to straining during bowel movements, which can cause or worsen hemorrhoids.
Poor Diet
Eating processed foods and low fiber can cause constipation, which increases the risk of hemorrhoids. Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can effectively ease the discomfort of constipation and promote optimal digestive health.
Overexertion
Pushing oneself too hard during a run can increase the intra-abdominal pressure, leading to internal hemorrhoids. Listening to your body and not overexerting oneself during a run is essential.
Prolonged sitting or standing
Sitting or standing for prolonged periods, either after a run or during daily activities, can increase the risk of hemorrhoids. Taking breaks and engaging in physical activity is essential to prevent hemorrhoids from forming.
Genetics
Some people may be more prone to hemorrhoids because of genetics. It is crucial to be aware of one's family history and take preventive measures to reduce the risk of hemorrhoids.
Reduce the Risk of Hemorrhoids while Running
Hemorrhoids can be minimized while running with a few preventative measures. Here are some tips and techniques for reducing the likelihood of hemorrhoids during your running routine.
- Stay Hydrated: Stay hydrated and prevent constipation by drinking plenty of water.
- Take Breaks: If you’re running for prolonged periods, take breaks to stretch and move around to prevent increased pressure in the anal region.
- Practice Good Bathroom Habits: Don't sit on the toilet for extended periods to avoid straining during bowel movements. Let your bowel movements happen naturally.
- Muscle Strengthening: Maintaining a strong core and pelvic floor can prevent constipation and improve bowel movements.
- Adequate Exercise: To prevent hemorrhoids, perform exercises that strengthen your pelvic muscles, such as Kegel or yoga.
- Ice Pack: Ice packs reduce inflammation and ease pain. For 15-20 minutes, wrap a few ice cubes in a cloth and apply to hemorrhoids.
- Over-the-counter Medication: Painkillers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
- Use a Hemorrhoid Cushion: A hemorrhoid cushion can relieve and prevent further irritation by reducing pressure on the hemorrhoid. The buffer could mitigate the impact of running, making it more comfortable.
- Don't Push Yourself: When running, hemorrhoids can worsen if you push yourself too hard. When you feel pain or discomfort, listen to your body and stop. Consider taking a break or switching to a low-affected exercise routine like swimming or yoga.
- Use Topical Treatments: To ease discomfort and pain, consider using creams, ointments, or wipes. Inflammation could be reduced, and symptoms eased with these treatments.
- Talk to a doctor: A doctor should be consulted if hemorrhoids are making running unbearable or causing severe pain or bleeding. They can prescribe prescription treatments or procedures to reduce the hemorrhoid's size and symptoms.
Hygiene Practices for Running with Hemorrhoids
Proper hygiene can reduce pain and inflammation, minimize infection risks, and promote healing. When running with hemorrhoids, follow these:
Cleanse Before and After Running
Before and after running, make sure the affected area is cleansed. Use a fragrance-free gentle cleanser with soothing properties, such as aloe vera. Do not use harsh soaps or scented products that can irritate hemorrhoids.
Using moist toilet paper
Wiping after using the bathroom with soft, moistened toilet paper or wipes can reduce friction and irritation. You should avoid using rough toilet paper, which can exacerbate hemorrhoids.
Replace Underwear Frequently
Protect yourself from infection and promote healing by wearing clean, breathable underwear. Underwear that fits tightly or materials that trap moisture should be avoided, as they can further irritate hemorrhoids.
Keep the Area Dry
Hemorrhoids are exacerbated by moisture, so keeping the affected area clean and dry is crucial. Using a clean, soft towel, pat the area dry after cleansing. Rubbing can cause further irritation, so avoid doing so.
Practice Good Bowel Habits
Running with an entire bowel can increase irritation and discomfort, so good bowel habits are essential. You should drink enough water and fiber to promote regular bowel movements.
Use Medicated Wipes
The use of medicated wipes can help reduce itching and inflammation, as well as promote good hygiene. If you have allergies or a medical condition, consult a doctor before using these products.
Shower After Running
To remove sweat and bacteria buildup from the affected area after a run, take a shower and thoroughly clean it.
Recommended Foods for Runners with Hemorrhoids
A healthy diet that supports Runner's digestive health and eases hemorrhoid symptoms. The following foods should be included in the diets of runners with hemorrhoids:
- High-fiber foods: Fiber is essential for maintaining regular bowel movements and preventing constipation, a common hemorrhoid trigger. The best high-fiber foods are whole grains, fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.
- Water-rich fruits and vegetables: Staying hydrated is crucial to preventing constipation and easing bowel movements. The body can be hydrated and nourished by water-rich fruits and vegetables, including watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers, and celery.
- Probiotic-rich foods: keeping a healthy gut microbiome requires food that contains probiotics. You can improve digestion and reduce inflammation in your gut by eating probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, and kimchi.
- Anti-inflammatory foods: These foods help reduce inflammation and discomfort in the rectal area caused by hemorrhoids. Adding anti-inflammatory foods such as turmeric, ginger, salmon, and leafy greens can help reduce inflammation.
- Iron-rich foods: Runners often have a high risk of anemia, which can worsen hemorrhoid symptoms. Consuming iron-rich foods, such as spinach, beans, and tofu, can boost iron levels and prevent anemia.
Foods to Avoid for Runners with Hemorrhoids
A runner with hemorrhoids should also avoid certain foods that can aggravate the condition.Running with hemorrhoids can be made more comfortable if you avoid these foods. The following foods should be avoided:
- Spicy Foods: Spicy Foods can cause irritation and inflammation in the digestive system, aggravating hemorrhoid symptoms. You should avoid spicy foods such as chili peppers, hot sauce, and curry.
- Citrus Fruits: Strawberries, oranges, lemons, and grapefruits contain acids that can irritate hemorrhoids. You should avoid citrus fruits or limit your consumption.
- Processed Foods: High in sodium and sugar, causing constipation and aggravating hemorrhoids. Foods that are whole and unprocessed are best.
- Alcohol and Caffeine: Both alcohol and caffeine dehydrate the body, causing constipation and worsening hemorrhoid symptoms. Caffeine and alcohol should be consumed in limited quantities.
- Red Meat: Red meat is high in fat and difficult to digest, causing constipation and hemorrhoids. Lean protein sources include chicken, fish, and beans.
- Dairy Products: Certain dairy products are difficult to digest, leading to constipation and straining during bowel movements, which leads to hemorrhoids. Ensure you don't consume excessive cheese, ice cream, and milk.
- Refined Carbohydrates: White bread, pasta, and pastries contain refined carbohydrates. It is more difficult to have regular bowel movements when you consume these foods, which can cause constipation.
Conclusion
Runners should not be discouraged from exercising because of hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are common among runners, but with the proper measures, they can be overcome. Runners can relieve hemorrhoids by choosing clothes, home remedies, and medical treatment.
A change in diet and lifestyle can also significantly reduce the occurrence of hemorrhoids and prevent their recurrence. Running can be incredibly rewarding on both a physical and psychological level as an exercise. Whenever you experience persistent or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention.
Surprise Offer!
with FREE SHIPPING!
