Post-Surgery Recovery Tips for Hemorrhoid Surgery: Managing Symptoms and Exercise

Post-hemorrhoid surgery

Hello, doctor.
I underwent a traditional hemorrhoid surgery covered by health insurance at the beginning of August (the surgeon mentioned that three areas were sutured).
It has been a month and a half since the surgery, and during my follow-up appointment last week, the doctor said the healing is progressing well.
However, there is some granulation tissue, and I received some medication for it.
I still experience a feeling of heaviness when standing, making it difficult to stand for long periods.
I tried to engage in some aerobic exercise, but I experienced some bleeding.
Due to discomfort after the surgery, I have been lying down for a while, and my physical condition is not good; I can only ride a stationary bike at a slow pace without added resistance.
Sometimes, even walking around causes some bleeding (I'm not sure if it's due to standing or walking).
Most post-operative education I found is focused on the first week or two after surgery.
I would like to ask:
1.
Is it normal to still feel a heaviness when standing one and a half months post-surgery? I am still soaking in warm water; what else can I do to aid my recovery?
2.
I am uncertain about whether I can exercise.
If I experience bleeding, should I reduce my activity to prevent further bleeding for better recovery? Or can exercise promote blood circulation and facilitate faster recovery, making the bleeding less concerning? What types of exercises can I do now? Previously, I would jog, jump rope, hike, ride the stationary bike, and do weight training; are these activities suitable for me now?

Shier, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/24

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery

1.
In general, traditional surgical wounds take about a month to fully heal.
Continuous bleeding and a feeling of heaviness are not very common.
Taking warm sitz baths should help, and it is also important to shorten the time spent on bowel movements.

2.
If the amount of oozing blood continues to decrease, it is not a concern.
Most regular activities can be resumed; however, it is advisable to temporarily avoid heavy weightlifting to prevent increased pressure on the anal area, which could worsen the bleeding.

Reply Date: 2020/09/24

More Info

Post-surgery recovery from hemorrhoid surgery can be a challenging process, and it's important to approach it with care and attention to your body's signals. Given that you had traditional hemorrhoid surgery in early August and are now experiencing some ongoing symptoms, let's address your concerns systematically.

1. Persistent Discomfort and Sensation of Heaviness: It's not uncommon to experience a sensation of heaviness or discomfort in the anal area for several weeks after surgery. The presence of granulation tissue, which is a normal part of the healing process, can contribute to this feeling. However, if the sensation is accompanied by significant pain or if it worsens, it would be prudent to consult your surgeon for further evaluation. Continuing to soak in warm water (sitz baths) can help soothe the area and promote healing, but if you notice any signs of infection or increased bleeding, you should seek medical advice.

2. Exercise and Activity Levels: After hemorrhoid surgery, it's crucial to listen to your body when it comes to physical activity. While light exercise can promote blood circulation and aid in recovery, any activity that leads to bleeding should be approached with caution. If you experience bleeding during or after exercise, it may be a sign that you are overexerting yourself or that your body is not yet ready for that level of activity.
- Light Activities: Given your current situation, starting with low-impact activities such as walking or gentle cycling on a stationary bike without resistance is advisable. These activities can help maintain your cardiovascular fitness without putting too much strain on your surgical site.

- Avoid High-Impact Exercises: Activities like running, jumping rope, or heavy weightlifting should be avoided until you have fully healed and received clearance from your healthcare provider. These exercises can increase intra-abdominal pressure, which may exacerbate your symptoms and lead to complications.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: It's essential to keep track of your symptoms as you gradually increase your activity level. If you notice any bleeding, increased pain, or discomfort, it may be necessary to reduce your activity and consult with your doctor. They can provide personalized advice based on your healing progress.

4. Gradual Return to Normal Activities: As you continue to heal, you can gradually reintroduce more vigorous activities, but do so slowly and with caution. Aim to increase your activity level incrementally, paying close attention to how your body responds.
5. Diet and Hydration: In addition to physical activity, maintaining a high-fiber diet and staying well-hydrated can help prevent constipation, which is crucial for recovery after hemorrhoid surgery. Straining during bowel movements can lead to complications and should be avoided.

6. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are important to monitor your recovery. They can assess the healing of the surgical site and provide guidance on when it is safe to resume more strenuous activities.

In summary, while some discomfort and a sensation of heaviness can be normal after hemorrhoid surgery, it's essential to listen to your body and avoid activities that lead to bleeding. Focus on gentle, low-impact exercises and maintain a healthy diet to support your recovery. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and before making significant changes to your activity level.

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