Can you drink alcohol when hemorrhoids flare up?

Sep 27, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
In general, you should not drink alcohol when suffering from hemorrhoids, as it may worsen the condition. Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to constipation or diarrhea, thereby increasing anal pressure and exacerbating hemorrhoid symptoms. Moreover, alcohol has a vasodilatory effect that may cause increased congestion and swelling of hemorrhoids, hindering recovery. If discomfort occurs, prompt medical attention is recommended.

In general, individuals with hemorrhoids should not drink alcohol, as it may worsen the condition. The specific reasons are as follows:

Alcohol can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to constipation or diarrhea, thereby increasing anal pressure and exacerbating hemorrhoid symptoms. Moreover, alcohol has a vasodilatory effect that may cause increased congestion and swelling of hemorrhoids, which is detrimental to recovery. Therefore, drinking alcohol is not recommended during a hemorrhoid flare-up. Patients should instead follow medical advice and use medications such as Ma Yinglong Musk Hemorrhoid Ointment, Compound Carrageenan Cream, or Yunnan Baiyao Hemorrhoid Ointment to promote healing.

Patients are advised to maintain healthy lifestyle habits, avoid prolonged sitting or squatting, and alleviate hemorrhoid symptoms through dietary adjustments and warm water sitz baths. Additionally, consuming more fiber-rich foods such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, appropriately increasing daily water intake, and reducing consumption of spicy or irritating foods can help reduce anal pressure and support recovery.

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