Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are inflamed and swollen veins found in the lower rectum and in the anus. A number of factors can cause it. In some instances, it may also be related to alcohol consumption.
- As a person gets older, they become more susceptible to developing hemorrhoids.
- By age 50, it is estimated that about half of the adult population would have experienced signs of hemorrhoids
- They can either be internal or external with external piles causing the most irritation
- It can be treated with medication, lifestyle changes and sometimes with surgery
- Although alcohol does not directly cause hemorrhoids, they can help aggravate the situation
Does Alcohol Cause Hemorrhoids?
No.
Drinking alcohol alone will not cause hemorrhoids. However, it can affect the other factors causing the condition. This leads to an aggravation of symptoms, recurrence, and trouble healing.
Alcohol and Piles Correlation
Too much alcohol in the diet can worsen a case of hemorrhoids. This is mainly because:
- Alcohol in the body draws water out of the cells and leads to dehydration
- This can lead to harder stools and constipation is one of the precipitating factors of the condition
- Constipation leads to an increased amount of straining, which also aggravates piles
- People who want to have their hemorrhoids treated and keep them from reoccurring should stop taking alcoholic beverages.
In addition to alcohol, hemorrhoids may also be aggravated by increased caffeine intake as it can also dehydrate the body.
Causes of Hemorrhoids
Here are some of the common causes of piles
- Straining with bowel movements – can irritate the veins of the rectum
- Long periods of sitting on the toilet – this causes an increase of pressure on the rectal area
- Chronic Diarrhea/Constipation
- Pregnancy
- Obesity
- Anal Intercourse
In addition to those factors, some studies have shown that hemorrhoids may also be an inherited condition.
Home Remedies and Lifestyle Treatments
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine-rich foods and drinks
- Drink a lot of water – this helps to keep hydrated and avoid constipation
- Prepare a Sitz Bath – regular soaking in a sitz bath can help to relieve itching and irritation
- Cold and Warm Compresses – These can help to reduce the swelling and control the pain, doctors may also prescribe pain relievers
- Avoid using dry toilet paper – moist towelettes can helps to keep the anal area clean better than dry toilet paper
- Keep the anal area clean by regular bathing
