While you don’t get hemorrhoids from biking, hemorrhoids, caused by swollen or inflamed veins around the anus or rectum, can make your ride very uncomfortable.
But certain steps like making sure your seat is in the proper position, wearing proper clothing, and trying different types of padding can help reduce discomfort.
Cycling and Hemorrhoids
Having hemorrhoids isn’t fun. They can cause unpleasant symptoms like anal pain, especially when sitting or during bowel movements; anal itching; bloody stool; and swelling or lumps near the anus, according to Johns Hopkins Medicine.
If you’re a cyclist, riding can make hemorrhoid symptoms worse by restricting blood flow to the anus or causing pressure and chafing against the damaged tissues. If hemorrhoids are producing pain during your rides, a few tips may reduce the discomfort.
First, make sure your bicycle seat is properly adjusted. According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, it should be level or tilted slightly downward. When you are sitting squarely on the seat with one leg extended to the ground, you should have a slight bend in the knee.
If the seat is still putting too much pressure on your hemorrhoids, consider padded bike shorts or padding for your seat. You can also check with your local bike shop to try different saddles that may be more comfortable.
Using an over-the-counter hemorrhoid cream with lidocaine or a corticosteroid cream may provide temporary relief during your ride. If you use these tips and at-home treatments and bicycling is still painful, consider taking a break to allow your body time to heal completely.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids are normal structures in the anal cavity, according to Cleveland Clinic. They are made up of blood vessels and connective tissue and help you control bowel movements. However, they become a problem when they become inflamed, a common condition caused by pressure on the anus from pregnancy, constipation, or straining during bowel movements.
Hemorrhoids may be internal or external. Consult your doctor to confirm the diagnosis and explore treatment options.
Treatment of Hemorrhoids
Hemorrhoids can often be treated with at-home remedies and precautions. In addition to using hemorrhoid creams, make sure you are getting plenty of fiber in your diet and stay hydrated to avoid constipation, advises Mayo Clinic. Consider a fiber supplement if you don’t get enough fiber in your diet. Regular exercise also contributes to regular bowel movements, and taking a stool softener may help reduce straining during bowel movements.
When you’re not in the saddle, wear cotton underwear to allow the area to breathe, advises Penn Medicine. You can gently clean with baby wipes or medicated witch hazel cloths. To prevent further irritation, avoid tissue with perfumes or dyes and be gentle when wiping. Soaking the area in warm water a few times each day can also help soothe hemorrhoids.
If the hemorrhoids persist or you experience worsening symptoms, be sure to see a doctor, who can discuss advanced treatment options, including surgery, with you.
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