Can eating extremely spicy food cause hemorrhoids?

Frequent consumption of extremely spicy food may lead to hemorrhoids, but occasional and limited intake generally does not result in this condition. Eating extremely spicy food regularly, due to its strong irritability, may cause gastric mucosa damage, anal mucosa damage, induce perianal abscess, and trigger chronic inflammation. Therefore, it is recommended to eat less or avoid such food altogether. Here are the specific consequences:

1. Gastric Mucosa Damage

Extremely spicy food contains capsaicin, which stimulates gastric acid secretion, leading to gastric mucosa congestion and edema. Long-term exposure may cause gastritis or gastric ulcers. If one already suffers from gastric diseases such as gastritis or gastric ulcers, their condition may worsen. Thus, it is advisable to consume less or avoid such food.

2. Anal Mucosa Damage

Consuming extremely spicy food like mala tang (spicy hot pot) or spicy strips regularly can irritate the skin around the anus, causing anal mucosa damage, bleeding, or pain. Regular intake of such food may lead to hemorrhoids, so it's best to consume less or avoid it.

3. Perianal Abscess

Perianal abscess is a collection of pus within the subcutaneous spaces around the anus, often secondary to anal gland infection. Eating extremely spicy food can irritate the skin around the anus, causing local capillary dilation and aggravating the inflammatory response, which may worsen the infection and exacerbate the condition. Therefore, patients with perianal abscess should avoid eating extremely spicy food.

4. Triggering Chronic Inflammation

Long-term consumption of extremely spicy food can easily induce chronic inflammation, such as enteritis, which leads to intestinal mucosa congestion and edema. Frequent constipation or diarrhea can easily damage the intestinal mucosa, triggering enteritis. Patients with enteritis should avoid extremely spicy food and opt for bland, easily digestible foods instead.

To maintain good health habits, it is recommended to consume fresh fruits and vegetables, such as apples, bananas, spinach, and celery. If you experience hemorrhoids, please seek prompt medical attention from a proctologist. You can follow the doctor's advice for warm water sitz baths and use topical medications like Fuzhiqing Ointment, Gangtai Ointment, and hemorrhoid suppositories for treatment.