Does Alcohol Aggravate Hemorrhoids?
We found no official source that says alcohol causes or worsens hemorrhoids. NIDDK lists straining, long toilet time, long-term constipation or diarrhea, a low-fiber diet, pregnancy and heavy lifting as causes, and does not mention alcohol. Ask a doctor if you have bleeding or symptoms that last.
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What NIDDK lists as causes
NIDDK, part of the National Institutes of Health, names these causes and risk factors:
- Pushing hard during bowel movements
- Spending long stretches on the toilet
- Long-term constipation or diarrhea
- A low-fiber diet
- Weakening of tissue around the anus and rectum with age
- Pregnancy
- Frequently lifting heavy objects
Alcohol is not on the list. The NIDDK causes page we read does not discuss alcohol, so we cannot say it helps or harms.
A possible indirect link
This is our reasoning, not an official statement: if drinking leaves you with constipation or diarrhea, those are listed causes. Notice what your own bowels do and tell your doctor.
What NIDDK advises for treatment
NIDDK recommends eating high-fiber foods, fiber supplements such as psyllium or methylcellulose, and drinking water or other nonalcoholic liquids each day as recommended by your health care professional.
When to see a doctor
- Symptoms continue after 1 week of at-home treatment.
- You have bleeding from your rectum.
People also ask
Does drinking alcohol cause hemorrhoids?
We found no official source that says so. NIDDK lists straining, constipation or diarrhea, low fiber, pregnancy and heavy lifting.
What should I drink if I have hemorrhoids?
NIDDK advises water or other nonalcoholic liquids each day, as recommended by your health care professional.
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms last more than 1 week of home treatment or you have rectal bleeding, per NIDDK.
Sources
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