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How Long Sitting Periods Can Worsen Piles Symptoms

16 Oct 2024

How Long Sitting Periods Can Worsen Piles Symptoms
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Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen veins located in the lower rectum or around the anus. For many people in Singapore, piles can cause significant discomfort and pain, often aggravated by everyday activities. One common factor that can worsen piles symptoms is prolonged periods of sitting. This article explores how long sitting periods can exacerbate piles in Singapore and what you can do to prevent or manage these symptoms.

Understanding Piles and Their Causes

Before diving into the relationship between sitting and piles, it’s essential to understand what piles are and how they develop. Haemorrhoids can occur due to various factors, including chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, and ageing. However, lifestyle factors, particularly prolonged sitting, can also play a significant role.

Piles are categorised into two types: internal and external. Internal piles occur inside the rectum and are usually painless, though they can cause bleeding. External piles occur around the anus and can be painful, especially when irritated.

The Role of Sitting in Worsening Piles

Sitting for extended periods is a significant contributor to worsening piles symptoms. Here’s how:

1. Increased Pressure on Rectal Veins: When you sit for long periods, especially on hard surfaces, the weight of your body puts extra pressure on the rectal and anal veins. Over time, this pressure can cause the veins to swell, leading to or exacerbating piles. This is particularly problematic in office workers or drivers who may spend most of their day seated.

2. Restricted Blood Flow: Prolonged sitting can restrict blood flow to the pelvic region. Poor circulation makes it harder for the swollen veins to heal, prolonging inflammation and discomfort. If you already suffer from piles, sitting for long periods will likely worsen the condition.

3. Poor Posture: Sitting with poor posture can also increase the risk of developing or aggravating piles. Slouching or leaning forward can further compress the veins in the rectal area, adding to the pressure on already sensitive hemorrhoidal tissues.

4. Dehydration and Constipation: Long sitting periods often correlate with reduced physical activity and inadequate water intake. Physical inactivity slows down digestion, increasing the risk of constipation— which is a common cause for haemorrhoids and piles. Coupled with insufficient hydration, prolonged sitting can make bowel movements more difficult, worsening the symptoms of piles.

Preventive Measures: What You Can Do to Mitigate the Effects of Prolonged Sitting

While avoiding sitting altogether is impractical, there are steps you can take to reduce its impact on piles.

1. Take Frequent Breaks: Aim to stand up, stretch, and walk around every 30 minutes. This not only relieves pressure on the rectal veins but also helps improve circulation, reducing the likelihood of worsening piles symptoms.

2. Use Ergonomic Chairs: If you must sit for long periods, invest in an ergonomic chair that offers proper support to the lower back and minimises pressure on the pelvic area. Soft cushions can also help distribute body weight more evenly.

3. Practice Good Posture: Sitting upright with your back fully supported can reduce strain on the lower body. Avoid slouching, as this puts additional pressure on the rectal veins.

4. Stay Hydrated and Eat a Fiber-Rich Diet: Proper hydration and a diet high in fibre can help soften stools, making bowel movements easier and reducing the strain on rectal veins. This helps prevent constipation, which is a major cause of piles.

5. Exercise Regularly: Physical activity helps improve digestion and reduce constipation. Regular exercise also strengthens the muscles around the rectal area, reducing the chances of haemorrhoid development or worsening symptoms.

When to Seek Medical Help

Although lifestyle changes can help manage piles symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if you experience persistent or severe symptoms. These may include:

  • Bleeding during bowel movements
  • Severe pain around the anal area
  • Swelling or lumps around the anus
  • Itching or irritation

In some cases, more invasive treatments may be required, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or even surgery. A specialist in piles, such as those at GUTCARE, can offer effective treatments and help you avoid complications from untreated haemorrhoids.

Conclusion

Prolonged sitting can significantly worsen piles symptoms, especially if coupled with poor posture and an inactive lifestyle. While making simple changes like taking regular breaks, practising good posture, and eating a fibre-rich diet can help manage symptoms, professional medical advice is often necessary for more severe cases.

If you’re experiencing persistent discomfort from piles in Singapore, the specialists at GUTCARE can offer personalised treatment options to help you get back to your daily routine without pain.

Reference(s):

https://www.paonessacrs.com/the-link-between-prolonged-sitting-and-hemorrhoids/

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268

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