What foods should not be eaten if you have hemorrhoids?

Jul 02, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Li Jingxiang

Introduction

Patients with hemorrhoids generally should not eat chili peppers, white spirits (baijiu), fried foods, barbecued foods, garlic, etc. Chili peppers are spicy and irritating foods containing capsaicin, which can stimulate the intestines and anal blood vessels after consumption, causing them to dilate and become congested, thereby worsening symptoms of hemorrhoidal swelling and pain. They may also trigger rectal bleeding and hinder recovery. White spirits contain a high concentration of alcohol, which can cause local vasodilation in the anal area after consumption.

Patients with hemorrhoids generally should not eat chili peppers, white liquor, fried foods, barbecue, garlic, etc. The specific reasons are as follows:

1. Chili Peppers: Chili peppers are spicy and irritating foods containing capsaicin. After consumption, they can stimulate the intestines and anal blood vessels, causing them to dilate and become congested, thereby worsening swelling and pain caused by hemorrhoids. They may also trigger rectal bleeding, which is detrimental to recovery.

2. White Liquor: White liquor contains a high amount of alcohol. Consumption not only causes local vasodilation around the anus but also interferes with normal body metabolism, increasing the risk of constipation. Constipation and straining during bowel movements can worsen hemorrhoid symptoms and may even lead to prolapse of hemorrhoidal tissue.

3. Fried Foods: Fried foods are high in oil and difficult to digest. Regular consumption may slow gastrointestinal motility, leading to indigestion and constipation. Difficulty defecating increases abdominal pressure, compressing the anal venous plexus and worsening hemorrhoidal congestion.

4. Barbecue: Various irritating substances are produced during the barbecue process, and grilled meat is difficult to digest. Consumption may not only irritate the intestines but also cause constipation due to indigestion, indirectly aggravating hemorrhoid symptoms.

5. Garlic: Garlic has a clearly spicy nature. Once ingested, it may stimulate the anal and rectal areas, causing local vasodilation and worsening feelings of pressure and pain from hemorrhoids. It may also exacerbate rectal bleeding.

Patients with hemorrhoids should maintain a bland diet, consume more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains rich in dietary fiber, ensure adequate water intake, develop good bowel habits, avoid prolonged sitting, and seek timely medical attention if symptoms worsen.

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Is it effective to apply tea seed oil on hemorrhoids?

In general, tea oil cannot cure hemorrhoids and may only provide limited relief in the early stages. If bleeding or pain persists for more than one week or progressively worsens, medical attention should be sought immediately. A specialist can then evaluate the condition and recommend appropriate treatments, such as suppositories or ointments containing local anesthetics, steroids, or vasoconstrictors, or perform minimally invasive procedures or surgery. Tea oil can only serve as a temporary adjunct and should not replace proper medical treatment.

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What should I do if my hemorrhoids bleed every time I have a bowel movement?

Defecation usually refers to bowel movement. In general, rectal bleeding immediately after defecation may be caused by factors such as stool friction against hemorrhoidal tissue, increased abdominal pressure during bowel movements, prolapse of internal hemorrhoids, incarcerated mixed hemorrhoids, or thrombosed external hemorrhoids. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and then improve the condition under a doctor's guidance through conservative management, medication, surgical treatment, or other appropriate methods.

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What should I do if I have bleeding during bowel movements due to internal hemorrhoids?

In general, the treatment methods for bleeding internal hemorrhoids mainly include conservative management, local medication, oral drug therapy, physical therapy, and surgical treatment. In addition, patients should follow medical advice for standardized treatment and undergo regular follow-up examinations. If abnormal conditions such as heavy or persistent bleeding occur, timely medical consultation is necessary to adjust the treatment plan.

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What could be the reason for a lump growing near the anus?

The term "butt hole" usually refers to the anus. Common causes of a lump near the anus include prolonged sitting and pressure, dietary irritation, external hemorrhoids, perianal abscess, rectal prolapse, etc. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. In daily life, avoid prolonged sitting or standing, engage in appropriate physical activity, maintain a light diet, and prevent constipation.