Can patients with hemorrhoids drink beer?

Jul 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Beer contains alcohol, which can dilate blood vessels after consumption, exacerbating congestion of the venous plexus in the anal area and worsening hemorrhoid symptoms, leading to increased pain, swelling, or more severe rectal bleeding. Additionally, beer has a diuretic effect; excessive consumption can easily lead to dehydration, causing dry and hard stools, increased difficulty in defecation, further irritation of hemorrhoids, and hindering recovery.

Patients with hemorrhoids are generally not advised to drink beer, and even in special circumstances, the amount should be strictly controlled.

Beer contains alcohol, which can cause blood vessels to dilate after consumption, worsening congestion of the anal venous plexus and exacerbating symptoms of hemorrhoids, leading to increased pain, swelling, or rectal bleeding. Additionally, beer has a diuretic effect, and excessive consumption can lead to dehydration, resulting in hard stools, increased difficulty with bowel movements, and further irritation of hemorrhoids, which is detrimental to recovery. Even during stable periods of hemorrhoids, small amounts of alcohol consumption may trigger symptom recurrence due to alcohol's irritating effects.

If beer consumption is unavoidable due to social or other special circumstances, patients with hemorrhoids must strictly limit the amount consumed, merely taking a small taste, and afterward drink plenty of water and consume appropriate amounts of fiber-rich foods to maintain smooth bowel movements. However, overall, from the perspective of disease recovery, abstaining from beer is a better choice.

Patients with hemorrhoids should avoid beer and other alcoholic beverages as much as possible. Daily dietary habits should be kept light, with increased consumption of vegetables and fruits. Prolonged sitting should be avoided, and good lifestyle habits should be cultivated to reduce the risk of hemorrhoid flare-ups. If symptoms worsen, prompt medical attention is necessary.

Related Articles

View All