Do Painkillers Make Piles Worse? Know the Truth

When piles (hemorrhoids) flare up, the first thing many people reach for is a painkiller. It seems like the quickest way to get relief.
But here’s a surprising fact: some painkillers can actually make piles worse, increase constipation, and delay healing.

Let’s break it down in simple, patient-friendly language.

Why Painkillers Can Make Piles Worse

Painkillers provide quick relief, but many types come with side effects that directly affect your digestive system.

1. Painkillers Can Cause Constipation

Medicines like:

• Ibuprofen

• Diclofenac

• Ketorolac

• Opioids (Tramadol, Codeine, etc.)

can slow down bowel movement.
Constipation → Hard stool → Straining → Piles get worse.

2. They Can Irritate Your Stomach

Some painkillers increase acidity, bloating, and stomach irritation, which indirectly worsens piles pain.

3. They Offer Temporary Relief Only

Painkillers mask the pain but don’t treat swelling, bleeding, itching, or the root cause.

4. Overuse May Delay Healing

Frequent use can reduce blood flow to the anal area, slowing the natural repair of tissues.

Which Painkillers Are Safe for Piles?

If you must take something for pain, doctors usually recommend:

✔ Paracetamol (Safest option)

• Does NOT cause constipation

• Does NOT irritate the stomach

• Provides good short-term relief

✔ Topical anesthetic gels (short-term use)

• Lidocaine-based creams

• Provide local numbness

❌ Avoid these if you have piles:

• Ibuprofen

• Aceclofenac

• Diclofenac

• Tramadol

• Naproxen

• Aspirin

Best Alternatives to Reduce Piles Pain Naturally

⭐ 1. Warm Sitz Bath (15 minutes)

Soothes pain and reduces swelling.

⭐ 2. High-Fiber Diet + Water

Softens stool and prevents straining.

⭐ 3. Ice Pack

Reduces inflammation instantly.

⭐ 4. Ointments for Piles

Hydrocortisone / Nifedipine / Lidocaine (as prescribed).

When You Should Stop Painkillers Immediately

Seek doctor help if you notice:

• Increased bleeding

• Severe constipation

• Abdominal pain

• Pain not improving after 2–3 days

These are signs that medication is irritating your digestive tract or piles have worsened.

Final Takeaway

Painkillers may seem harmless, but some of them can worsen piles by causing constipation and delaying healing.
If you have piles pain, paracetamol is the safer choice—but long-term relief comes only from treating the root cause.

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