Can you drink alcohol if you have hemorrhoids?

Nov 14, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Li Jingxiang
Introduction
Patients with hemorrhoids should avoid drinking alcohol, as alcohol consumption may exacerbate the condition or trigger symptom flare-ups, whether during the acute phase or remission period, which is highly detrimental to recovery. It is essential to strictly control diet in daily life: in addition to abstaining from alcohol, one should also avoid spicy and irritating foods, and increase intake of fruits and vegetables rich in dietary fiber. Maintaining regular bowel habits and avoiding prolonged squatting are also recommended.

It is not recommended to drink alcohol after developing hemorrhoids, whether during the acute phase or remission period. Alcohol consumption may worsen the condition or trigger symptom flare-ups, significantly hindering recovery. Detailed explanations are as follows:

Drinking alcohol during the acute phase of hemorrhoids directly exacerbates symptoms. Alcohol is irritating and can cause congestion and dilation of the perianal venous plexus, leading to increased swelling and pain in hemorrhoids, and may even induce rectal bleeding. At this stage, patients already suffer from painful, swollen hemorrhoidal nodules and discomfort during bowel movements; consuming alcohol will aggravate these symptoms and prolong recovery time.

Alcohol consumption during remission increases the risk of hemorrhoid recurrence. Even if symptoms have temporarily disappeared, the fragility of perianal blood vessels has not fully improved. The irritation caused by alcohol can disrupt local stability, causing veins to become congested again. Previously resolved hemorrhoidal tissues may reappear, possibly becoming more severe than before.

In daily life, strict dietary control is essential. In addition to avoiding alcohol, individuals should also limit spicy and irritating foods and increase intake of fiber-rich fruits and vegetables. Maintaining regular bowel habits, avoiding prolonged squatting during defecation, cleaning the perianal area with warm water after bowel movements, and engaging in moderate physical activity can promote perianal blood circulation and support recovery.

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