How can a little bit of chili pepper make hemorrhoids even worse?

As the saying goes, "People can't live without chili peppers." Chili peppers have won over the taste buds of numerous food lovers with their unique flavor. However, for those who are suffering from hemorrhoids, eating chili peppers is like a "disaster," which can make their already bad condition even worse. What on earth are the reasons behind this? Today, let's uncover the mysteries together.

 

I. Stimulating blood vessel dilation: The "catalyst" for hemorrhoid swelling

 

Hemorrhoids are essentially formed by the varicose veins in the rectum and anus. Components such as capsaicin in chili peppers are like a fire. After we consume chili peppers, they will reach the rectum and anus along with the blood circulation. Once they come into contact with the blood vessels in these areas, capsaicin will stimulate the blood vessels, causing the originally varicose veins to dilate and become congested further. The part that was already swollen due to hemorrhoids will experience even more severe swelling and more obvious pain under this kind of stimulation. Just imagine, the "small bulge" that was just a bit uncomfortable originally turns into a "big trouble" that is both swollen and painful because of the stimulation of chili peppers, bringing great pain to the patients.

 

II. Affecting intestinal function: The "accomplice" behind diarrhea and constipation

 

The stability of intestinal function is crucial for patients with hemorrhoids, but chili peppers can easily disrupt this balance. After chili peppers enter the intestine, they will strongly stimulate the intestine, leading to a disorder in intestinal peristalsis. It will either cause the peristalsis speed to be too fast, resulting in diarrhea, or affect the normal transportation function of the intestine, leading to constipation.

 

When there is frequent diarrhea, the anus needs to constantly bear the impact of feces, and the local pressure increases significantly. At the same time, the repeatedly excreted feces will continuously stimulate the hemorrhoid area, worsening the condition of hemorrhoids. When there is constipation, the defecation process becomes extremely difficult, and people often need to strain during defecation. This straining will exert greater pressure on the hemorrhoids, causing the hemorrhoid nuclei to protrude, and the degree of pain will increase instantaneously. Some patients may even bleed as a result.

 

III. Aggravating local inflammation: The "fuse" that triggers multiple discomforts

 

Capsaicin not only stimulates the blood vessels and the intestine but also spares no mercy on the skin and mucous membranes around the anus. When capsaicin stimulates these areas, it will exacerbate the local inflammatory reaction. Inflammation will cause tissue edema, making the hemorrhoids more swollen and painful. Moreover, many patients will experience unbearable itching. Scratching uncontrollably may lead to skin damage and infection. In addition, the increased secretion will make patients feel local dampness and discomfort, seriously affecting their daily lives.

 

For patients with hemorrhoids, dietary regulation is of great importance. Although chili peppers are delicious, for the sake of physical health, the intake should be controlled as much as possible. If severe hemorrhoid symptoms have already occurred, it is necessary to seek medical treatment in a timely manner and receive professional treatment. I hope everyone can have a healthy eating habit and stay away from the trouble of hemorrhoids!