Does Drinking Alcohol Make Hemorrhoids Worse?
We found no official source that links alcohol to worse hemorrhoids. NIDDK lists straining, long periods on the toilet, constipation or diarrhea, and low-fiber diets as causes, and advises more fiber and fluids. See a doctor for any rectal bleeding.
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We use your email only for this download.What NIDDK lists as causes
The National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases says hemorrhoids can be caused by pushing hard during bowel movements, spending long periods on the toilet, long-term constipation or diarrhea, a low-fiber diet, aging, pregnancy and frequent heavy lifting. Alcohol is not on the list, and its diet page for hemorrhoids does not mention alcohol either.
Why people ask
If drinking changes your bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, that could matter. NIDDK names both as causes, but we found no official source that says alcohol does this, so this is our reasoning and not an official statement.
What NIDDK advises
- Eat high-fiber foods, which make stools softer and easier to pass.
- Drink water and other liquids to help fiber work better.
See a doctor
NIDDK says see a doctor if you still have symptoms after 1 week of at-home treatment or if you have bleeding from the rectum. Bleeding can signal conditions such as Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis or colorectal cancer, so do not assume it is hemorrhoids.
This is general information, not medical advice.
People also ask
Does alcohol cause hemorrhoids?
NIDDK does not list alcohol among causes. It lists straining, constipation or diarrhea, low fiber, pregnancy and heavy lifting.
What helps hemorrhoids?
NIDDK says high-fiber foods and drinking enough liquids help soften stools.
When should I see a doctor about hemorrhoids?
NIDDK says if symptoms last after 1 week of home treatment, or you have rectal bleeding.
Sources
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