Alcohol is a diuretic, meaning it dehydrates your body. Dehydration can lead to harder stools and constipation, both of which increase the likelihood of straining during bowel movements—a primary cause of hemorrhoids. When your body lacks the fluids it needs to keep your digestive tract functioning smoothly, the result is often irritation in the lower rectum and anus.
Beyond that, alcohol dilates blood vessels. While this might seem like a good thing, for people prone to hemorrhoids, it can worsen swelling and inflammation in the rectal veins. Chronic drinking can also weaken the integrity of your blood vessels and slow healing, contributing to longer-lasting or more frequent flare-ups.
This effect on circulation is especially relevant for internal hemorrhoids, which are located inside the rectum and are more likely to swell or prolapse with increased vascular pressure. External hemorrhoids, meanwhile, are sensitive to friction and inflammation caused by alcohol’s systemic effects, such as poor liver function and increased clotting risks.
Alcohol can promote systemic inflammation, especially when consumed in excess. It may also be accompanied by poor dietary habits—greasy foods, low fiber, and high salt intake—that further contribute to hemorrhoid risk. These foods slow digestion and reduce stool bulk, both of which require more effort to pass and irritate hemorrhoidal tissue.
Binge drinking, in particular, is associated with increased episodes of gastrointestinal distress, including bloating, abdominal pressure, and erratic bowel movements. For someone already dealing with sensitive tissue in the anal region, this cocktail of stressors can be enough to spark a painful episode.
Additionally, alcohol affects liver function, and impaired liver health is linked to issues with venous pressure in the lower body. Portal hypertension—a condition that can arise from long-term liver damage—has been associated with the development or worsening of hemorrhoidal veins.
Everyone tolerates alcohol differently, but moderation is key. One or two occasional drinks may not cause noticeable effects, especially if you stay well-hydrated and eat a fiber-rich diet. However, regular or heavy drinking increases the chances of a flare-up.
It’s important to monitor how your body reacts. If you notice a pattern—such as symptoms appearing or worsening after a night of drinking—it may be worth dialing back your intake. Keeping a symptom diary that tracks what you drink and eat alongside your bowel habits can help you identify personal triggers.
Opting for lower-alcohol beverages, avoiding sugary mixers, and drinking plenty of water alongside alcohol can all help reduce the likelihood of digestive upset. Staying active and keeping your bowel habits regular are also protective factors if you choose to consume alcohol occasionally.
If your hemorrhoid symptoms persist, worsen, or are accompanied by other signs like bleeding, it’s time to consult a colorectal specialist. Dr. Albert Chung, based in Santa Ana, CA, is a board-certified colorectal surgeon who can help you assess lifestyle factors and provide both medical and surgical treatment options.
Call (714) 988-8690 to schedule a consultation and get tailored advice for managing hemorrhoids while maintaining a balanced lifestyle.