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Hemorrhoids can be embarrassing to talk about. In fact, embarrassment is one of the biggest reasons only four percent of patients actually talk to a doctor about symptoms. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers understands how uncomfortable a situation may be when hemorrhoids are involved. As a highly accredited hemorrhoid treatment center, we prioritize high-quality, patient-centered care. When hemorrhoids flare up and persist for weeks, we offer a minimally invasive treatment that can help patients find relief from bleeding, swelling, and itching symptoms.  

While it may be uncomfortable to talk about persistent hemorrhoids with your doctor, you might be surprised to learn you’re in good company. Many notable people in history have dealt with hemorrhoids, and some have elected to undergo medical procedures to treat their symptoms. From iconic Hollywood actors to renowned historical figures and modern celebrities, hemorrhoids can affect just about anyone. Below are examples of celebrities and famous people who had hemorrhoids.

George Brett

The former third baseman for the Kansas City Royals made national headlines in 1980 after hemorrhoids affected his ability to play during the World Series. He only missed one game to undergo a minor surgical treatment before returning to the plate.

Elizabeth Taylor

The late actress, well known for her portrayal as Cleopatra, was frequently admitted to hospitals for a variety of conditions, including hemorrhoids, according to the Tampa Bay Times and San Francisco Examiner.  

Napoleon Bonaparte

Napoleon I allegedly felt ill during the Battle of Waterloo due to a case of thrombosed hemorrhoids, according to a 1988 article published in the scientific journal “Diseases of the Colon and Rectum.”  In fact, hemorrhoids were recognized as an ailment and have long troubled even the most formidable figures in history. 

Today, we understand that thrombosed hemorrhoids are the result of a blood clot inside the hemorrhoid. This can cause severe pain, swelling, and inflammation that may lead to infection if untreated.  

Gerald R. Ford

The former U.S. president occasionally dealt with hemorrhoids, as reported in his physical exam from 1972, which is publicly available online. According to the document, his hemorrhoid symptoms worsened during “exertional activities,” which can be identified as intensive and exhaustive physical exercise. Heavy lifting is known to exacerbate hemorrhoid symptoms. 

Jimmy Carter

Time Magazine reported in 1979 that the late former U.S. president was “plagued” by hemorrhoids. One flareup in particular caused the administration to cancel former president Carter’s schedule so he could focus on treatment. He underwent a handful of procedures, including rubber band ligation, in which a doctor uses a special tool that wraps a rubber band around internal hemorrhoids.  While this cuts off circulation and causes the hemorrhoid to shrink and fall off, the recovery period can be painful and may not prevent symptoms from returning.  

Leslie Jones

The SNL alum was public about her struggle with chronic hemorrhoids and revealed details about her recovery from hemorrhoid surgery in her memoir. During her recovery, she developed a complication that caused the muscles in her rectum to spasm. This complication is common after hemorrhoid surgery and can persist for weeks.  

Noah Kahan

The folk-pop singer and songwriter shared his struggle with hemorrhoids on social media and started a campaign to reduce the stigma associated with the condition. In an interview with Australian podcaster Smallzy, he mentions that his hemorrhoids flare up due to a lack of fiber and prolonged sitting on airplanes and tour buses.  

A low-fiber diet and prolonged sitting are risk factors for symptomatic hemorrhoids. Additional risk factors for hemorrhoids include chronic constipation or diarrhea, obesity, age, genetics, and pregnancy.

Pauly D

The MTV star and DJ had a health scare related to hemorrhoids during the filming of “Jersey Shore Family Vacation” in 2023. In a reflective moment in the episode, he had a hemorrhoid that ruptured, and he lost so much blood that he needed to be taken to the hospital.  

Ruptured hemorrhoids are often caused by too much pressure on thrombosed external hemorrhoids. The pressure can cause the skin around the hemorrhoid to break, making the hemorrhoid more prone to bleeding and infection.   

How Modern Medicine Changed Hemorrhoid Care

While rubber band ligation and more invasive hemorrhoid surgeries are still performed today, hemorrhoid treatment has come a long way. USA Hemorrhoid Centers offers a minimally invasive treatment called hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) to treat internal hemorrhoids by reducing blood flow to the affected area.  Using X-ray imaging, tiny particles are guided through a catheter into the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoid. This reduces blood flow to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and reduce bleeding. The procedure is painless, and multiple studies have confirmed HAE’s effectiveness with a clinical success rate of over 97 percent. 

Contact USA Hemorrhoid Centers

It’s important to seek medical attention if you’re experiencing persistent hemorrhoid symptoms despite self-care measures. With over 25 locations in the U.S. endorsed by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), USA Hemorrhoid Centers provides high-quality, patient-centered hemorrhoid care that values safety and comfort. 

Patients can either schedule their appointment online or by calling our toll-free number. Once the appointment is scheduled, patients can verify their health insurance to ensure their visit is covered. USA Hemorrhoid Centers participates with most major health insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. 

Relief can start with a click. Schedule your appointment today. 

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The word hemorrhoids can evoke a sense of discomfort, not just physically, but also emotionally. The common condition can influence daily lives, often disrupting our comfort and limiting our participation in the simple routines and social interactions we often take for granted. When it comes to activities and hemorrhoids, knowing which movements or behaviors might worsen symptoms is key.

While many treatments and remedies aim to alleviate these symptoms, understanding what not to do is equally important, especially when it comes to exercises and hemorrhoids. By recognizing and avoiding activities that trigger flare-ups, you can take meaningful steps towards finding relief, managing your hemorrhoid symptoms effectively, and improving your overall well-being. 

HEMORRHOID SYMPTOMS TO LOOK FOR

Life with Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoids can make the simplest aspects of everyday life uncomfortable. Everyday activities like sitting, standing, performing basic chores, and sleeping can become painful, impacting your well-being in surprising ways.  Every day experiences, daily habits, and exercises that aggravate hemorrhoids include:

• Prolonged Sitting:

Certain sitting positions can worsen hemorrhoids.  When you are trying to find a position that doesn’t hurt, this can feel unbearable, leading to constant shifting, making you fidgety, unable to pay attention.

• Limited Movement or High Impact Exercise

Even though exercise is generally encouraged for staying healthy, certain exercises and hobbies—like running, cycling, horseback riding, or heavy lifting—can trigger or intensify symptoms. This can make staying active feel risky and discourage people from doing what they enjoy.

• The Strain of Standing:

The constant pressure in your bottom area due to standing for a long time can increase pain, swelling, and general discomfort, especially for people who are overweight and require being on their feet all day.

• Simple Chores

Simple household tasks or even just bending down to pick something up can strain your lower body and worsen the pain. Routine chores can become hard work, leading to exhaustion, frustration, and dependence on others.

• Restless Sleep:

Finding a comfortable way to sleep can become a nightly struggle. Tossing and turning to escape the constant pressure can lead to broken sleep, irritability, and exhaustion.

• The Emotional Impact

The constant discomfort can lead to increased irritability, frustration, and embarrassment, contributing to a sense of isolation, increasing the emotional burden, and impacting mental well-being.

EFFECTS OF PROLONGED SITTING

What Activities Make Hemorrhoids Worse?

Hemorrhoids can occur inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or outside around the anus (external hemorrhoids) causing painful symptoms like bleeding, itching, irritation and swelling in the anus. To avoid the development of hemorrhoids or prevent hemorrhoid flare-ups, certain activities should be avoided.

Prolonged sitting and inactivity can contribute to discomfort and digestive problems, potentially exacerbating hemorrhoids. Maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating about 30 minutes of daily exercise, such as brisk walking, aerobic exercise, and flexibility training, can help relieve or prevent hemorrhoid discomfort. Some activities and hemorrhoids do not go well together. Stick to moderate exercise and avoid heavy lifting to prevent pressure on clots or external hemorrhoids until symptoms improve. Both constipation and diarrhea can aggravate hemorrhoids. Keep a food diary to identify trigger foods causing these issues and eliminate them. Increased straining, if you are constipated or during regular bowel movements, can aggravate internal hemorrhoids and lead to fissures. If diarrhea continues, consult a doctor. Certain medications can also cause chronic constipation.

Skipping daily showers and neglecting anal hygiene can worsen irritation and itching. After using the toilet, gently cleanse the anal area with warm water and pat it dry instead of rubbing. Women should use sanitary napkins designed for sensitive skin during menstruation to avoid rashes. In many cases, hemorrhoid symptoms improve on their own within one to two weeks.   Adopting simple lifestyle changes like incorporating more fiber into your diet, drinking plenty of water, and using sitz baths may speed up healing and reduce discomfort. However, if there is no improvement in hemorrhoid symptoms after a week of self-care, it is important to consult a medical specialist to address the condition. 

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The Hidden Anxiety of Social Engagements

The impact of hemorrhoids extends beyond physical discomfort- it can interfere with everyday activities, and hemorrhoids often don’t mix well. From social activities to intimate moments, the discomfort of hemorrhoids can significantly impact various aspects of life, turning enjoyable activities into sources of anxiety. 

Dining out may become stressful due to uncomfortable seating and the frequent need for frequent need to use the restrooms, diminishing the pleasure of the meal and company.  Travel-whether by plane or car, can be daunting due to confined spaces and uncertain bathroom access, which can trigger stress and discomfort. Even recreational events like movies or live performances can become a challenge with prolonged sitting and the inability to shift positions discreetly.. Social gatherings, requiring extended periods of standing or offering inadequate seating, can feel like an endurance test, potentially leading to individuals withdrawing from events altogether. Furthermore, the pain and self-consciousness associated with hemorrhoids can create intimacy barriers in personal relationships.

While certain exercises and hemorrhoids can be a challenging combination, avoiding social and physical activity altogether can affect both physical and emotional well-being. Understanding how to manage symptoms while staying socially engaged is a key part of improving quality of life.

Exercises To Avoid With Hemorrhoids

Strenuous exercises or high-impact workouts can put pressure on your abdominal area and anus. Such activities could worsen your hemorrhoid symptoms, leading to increased pain, irritation, or even bleeding.

• Weightlifting
• Cycling
• Rowing. 
• Sit-ups
• Squats
• Horseback riding 

Safe Exercises for Hemorrhoids: What You Can Still Do

Regular exercise is key for maintaining overall health and well-being. However, the presence of hemorrhoids can make physical activity uncomfortable and painful. These swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum cause itching, bleeding, and general discomfort. It’s quite common for adults to experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives. 

Incorporating low-impact, moderate exercise into your routine can help improve circulation, support digestion, and reduce the risk of constipation—all of which can ease hemorrhoid symptoms.

Exercises for hemorrhoids include:

•  Walking
•  Swimming
•  Yoga
•  Pelvic floor contractions
•  High planks
• Glute bridges

Treatment For Hemorrhoid Relief

For ongoing or worsening hemorrhoid problems, minimally invasive procedures like hemorrhoid artery embolization (HAE) can offer relief. This non-surgical technique is performed by an interventional radiologist by precisely targeting and reducing blood flow to the swollen hemorrhoidal veins, causing them to shrink. Being minimally invasive, HAE is an in-office procedure prioritizing comfort and quick recovery.

Why Choose a USA Hemorrhoid Center?

Recognizing the significant impact of exercise and hemorrhoids on daily life emphasizes the need for effective solutions. While temporary relief can be found over the counter, persistent or severe cases often require specialized care. USA Hemorrhoid Centers provides a direct path to hemorrhoid symptom relief through focused expertise and patient-centered care. 

USA Hemorrhoid Centers is a national leader in providing specialized, non-surgical relief from hemorrhoids. Our experienced physicians offer accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment plans with HAE to help you return to your normal activities without discomfort. We strive to make care accessible by accepting most insurance plans and offering affordable payment options. If you’re experiencing hemorrhoid issues, find a clinic near you and schedule a consultation today.

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FAQs

What sleeping position is best if you have hemorrhoids? 

If you’re experiencing anal pressure, lying on your side with a pillow between your knees could offer relief and improve your comfort level.

Can lifting heavy objects aggravate hemorrhoids?

Similar to weightlifting, straining to lift heavy objects, such as groceries, luggage, or furniture, can elevate abdominal pressure and aggravate hemorrhoids. It’s important to remember to use your leg muscles and maintain a straight back when lifting.

Does walking make hemorrhoids worse?

Regular, moderate walking is generally good for preventing and managing hemorrhoids and maintaining overall health. 

About

Dr. Yan Katsnelson

Organizations

Founder of USA Vein Clinics, USA Fibroid Centers, USA Vascular Centers, USA Hemorrhoid Centers, USA Pain Center, USA Prostate Centers, USA Longevity Centers and USA Oncology Centers

Biography

Dr. Yan Katsnelson is an entrepreneur, highly skilled cardiac surgeon, business owner, and philanthropist. He is the founder and CEO of USA Hemorrhoid Centers which is part of USA Clinics Group – the parent company of USA Fibroid Centers, USA Vascular Centers, USA Vein Clincs, USA Prostate Centers, USA Pain Center, USA Longevity Centers, and USA Oncology Centers. Dr. Katsnelson has established himself as a strong advocate for accessible, affordable, and compassionate healthcare services.

As the CEO of USA Clinics Group, Dr. Katsnelson has pioneered expanding minimally invasive options that provide high-quality care using the latest technology in the most advanced facilities to the communities that need it most. He also founded the Chicago Heart Institute, which was dedicated to the advanced treatments of cardiovascular diseases.

Dr. Katsnelson, M.D., completed a fellowship at the Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard School of Medicine, in Boston, MA. He was a faculty cardiac surgeon at the University of Chicago prior to starting his Cardiovascular and Thoracic private practice in Chicago Northwest suburbs. Dr. Yan Katsnelson was the first U.S. surgeon to perform the double valve replacement using Biocor™ tissue valve. His clinical areas of expertise included minimally invasive valve surgery, complex aortic operations, re-operative coronary and valve surgery, and beating-heart (off-pump) bypass surgery. He is published in various medical and scientific journals.

Dr. Yan Katsnelson’s Vision for Healthcare

His vision of healthcare combines advanced medical and informational technology and creates a unique, data-driven approach that enables individualized treatment planning and achieves consistent outcomes. He developed a comprehensive healthcare management platform to optimize each patient’s experience before, during and after an appointment with streamlined scheduling, insurance verification, prior authorizations, clinical decision-management support, and treatment process quality assurance.

Dr. Yan Katsnelson together with his wife also started the Fibroid Fighters Foundation to advance the cause of women’s health and the safe and effective minimally invasive treatment of uterine fibroids. He is member of the international Save a Child’s Heart that provides life-saving cardiac treatment to children from underdeveloped countries. Dr Katsnelson leads development of ECHO assisted technology that enables screening of thousands of children worldwide.

Other Organizations

• Founder of the Chicago Heart Institute
• American Medical Association
• American Vein and Lymphatic Society [American College of Phlebology]
• Cardiothoracic Surgery Network [Chicago]
• Chicagoland Association of Russian-speaking Physicians
• Society of Thoracic Surgery

Honors and Awards

• 1990: Ural Medical Academy, Russia
• 2002: American Heart Saver, American Heart Association Award
• 2005: Nation’s First Double Implant of New St. Jude Tissue Heart Valve

Each March, physicians’ dedication and invaluable contributions are recognized on National Doctors’ Day. At USA Hemorrhoid Centers, we want to recognize our doctors every day for their expertise, compassion, and commitment to patient-centered care. 

See Our Team Share Their Perspective

To understand what drives our physicians, our CEO and Founder, Yan Katsnelson, MD, recently shared the vision behind USA Clinics Group, a large network of outpatient clinics, which includes USA Hemorrhoid Centers. The philosophy shared by our team of specialists is simple: to improve lives by making effective treatments more accessible and convenient, allowing patients to return to their daily routines without painful symptoms. 

Katsnelson described his time as a heart surgeon as a transformative experience. Restoring heart function was deeply rewarding, but he saw the potential for less invasive procedures to achieve similar, impactful results. 

“That’s the magic of today’s medicine, minimally invasive treatments for very common conditions,” said Dr. Katsnelson. “Procedures with minimal to no risk and extraordinary outcomes.” 

This commitment drives USA Hemorrhoid Centers to focus on providing nonsurgical hemorrhoid treatments for chronic symptoms that significantly impact patients’ daily lives. 

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A Better Way: Minimally Invasive Treatments 

Dr. Katsnelson’s transition from performing complex surgeries to pioneering a patient-first philosophy of care was driven by outcomes. He saw firsthand how advanced techniques could offer relief without hospitalization, long recovery times, or invasive procedures. 

“Patients who had struggled with discomfort and embarrassment for years were suddenly able to find relief with a quick, outpatient procedure,” Dr. Katsnelson recalled. “Seeing how much their daily lives improved was incredibly motivating.” 

Katsnelson believes medicine extends beyond treating individual patients, it’s about building a system rooted in consistency and compassion to ensure care is accessible and effective for all. This approach allows thousands of patients to receive treatment from highly skilled physicians without lengthy recovery times. 

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Expanding Care to Those in Need 

Ensuring consistent, high-quality patient care is at the heart of USA Hemorrhoid Centers’ mission. Dr. Katsnelson emphasized the importance of standardized protocols, rigorous training, and state-of-the-art management systems that integrate clinical best practices. This structured approach allows our specialists to provide accessible and advanced treatment in every community we serve. 

Recognizing the impact of minimally invasive treatments offered, USA Clinics Group was launched to offer care for conditions including varicose and spider veins, knee arthritis, peripheral artery disease (PAD), enlarged prostates, hemorrhoids, uterine fibroids, and preventative CT scans.  

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Our Doctors’ Insights: Why We Care 

A core principle at USA Hemorrhoid Centers is ensuring that patients, especially those in underserved communities, have access to the advanced care they need. Dr. Katsnelson and our team of specialists are passionate about eliminating barriers to treatment and providing solutions that allow individuals to live more comfortably. 

“I became a doctor because I wanted to make a real difference in people’s lives. Seeing patients regain their comfort and confidence after struggling with a condition for years is incredibly fulfilling.” – Dr. Stephanie Spano 

“Medicine has always been about more than just treatment for me—it’s about listening to patients, understanding their concerns, and helping them find solutions that improve their daily lives.” – Dr. Jeffrey Gunzenhauser 

“I was drawn to medicine because I wanted to provide effective care to those in need. Helping patients return to their routines without pain through minimally invasive treatments is what drives me every day.” – Dr. Sanjeev Saxena 

Patient Success Stories 

Alexis B. – The staff at USA Hemorrhoid Centers was incredible. They kept me informed throughout the entire process and checked in often to make sure I was comfortable. I’m so glad I went through with the treatment and excited to see the improvements. 

Abe K. – I’m really happy I chose USA Hemorrhoid Centers. The staff is friendly and professional, and the doctor made me feel completely at ease, taking the time to answer all my questions. The whole experience has been amazing—I couldn’t be happier. 

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You Are Our Focus at USA Hemorrhoid Centers 

Our values focus on “I CARE” which encompasses integrity, compassion, accountability, respect and excellence. We care about every individual’s unique health condition and our treatment plans are tailored to each patient. 

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