Can patients with hemorrhoids take anti-inflammatory drugs?

Generally, patients with hemorrhoids can take anti-inflammatory drugs when they have a bacterial infection. However, if there are no signs of infection, taking such medications is not recommended. If any abnormalities occur, timely medical consultation is advised. Detailed explanation is as follows:

When hemorrhoids present symptoms such as local redness, swelling, warmth, pain, accompanied by purulent discharge, or prolapsed hemorrhoidal tissue causing tissue necrosis and fever—indicating clear signs of bacterial infection—appropriate use of anti-inflammatory drugs can help control inflammation, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent the spread of infection. In these situations, under a doctor's guidance, selecting suitable anti-inflammatory drugs can effectively alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.

If hemorrhoids only manifest as rectal bleeding, anal heaviness, or itching without any bacterial infection, there is no need to take anti-inflammatory drugs. Anti-inflammatory drugs primarily target bacterial infections and have no therapeutic effect on the pathological changes of hemorrhoids themselves, such as venous dilation or congestion of the venous plexus. Taking these drugs blindly will not only fail to relieve symptoms but may also disrupt the normal intestinal flora and cause other discomforts.

Hemorrhoid patients should only use anti-inflammatory drugs after a doctor has clearly diagnosed whether an infection exists. Strict adherence to medical advice is essential, and self-medication should be avoided to prevent adverse health effects due to improper drug use.