Haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are enlarged blood vessels that form just inside and around the anus. They will usually appear as small, discoloured lumps.
Blood vessels are a normal and important part of the anatomy of the anal canal but when enlarged they can cause itching and pain around your bottom, as well as signs of mucus or bright red blood.
Signs and symptoms
Symptoms can vary for different people. Generally, piles are classified according to whether they have formed inside or outside of the anal canal (it is possible to have both kinds at once).
First-degree piles can bleed but stay inside the anus; second-degree piles come out of the anus only during a bowel movement; third-degree piles are outside the anus and only go back if they are physically pushed back in; and fourth-degree piles hang from the anus and don’t go back in.
External piles can become very painful, particularly if a blood clot develops within them.
Haemorrhoids can go away after a few days without treatment, though there are steps you can take to relieve symptoms and stop them from coming back.
Risk factors
Haemorrhoids can affect anyone but are more common in pregnant women and older people. You are at a higher risk of developing them if you frequently experience constipation or often take a long time straining on the toilet to open your bowels.
Treatment
You should drink plenty of fluids (not too many alcoholic or caffeinated ones), eat a high-fibre diet and exercise regularly to prevent constipation. Avoid sitting down for long periods and take regular walks. While hygiene is important, you should not wipe your bottom too hard – using damp toilet paper or wet wipes can help instead.
Sit in a warm bath to reduce itching, and use an ice pack in a towel or take paracetamol to ease painful piles (codeine and ibuprofen are not recommended for haemorrhoids).
If you feel like you need to open your bowels you should not ignore it but it’s important not to push too hard or take too long to do so.
Pharmacists can offer treatments for constipation as well as for swollen, itchy or painful piles. Not many people need to see a doctor about haemorrhoids unless they don’t get better after a week of home treatment or the problem keeps coming back.
Book a private appointment
You may have haemorrhoids if you see small, discoloured lumps around your anus. If you have needed to visit a pharmacist or doctor multiple times for this issue, you may need to speak to a gastroenterologist.
We understand it can be embarrassing to discuss this problem, but our experts have seen this many times and provide a compassionate service.
Get in touch to arrange a consultation with one of our dedicated specialists.
Tests
Digital rectal examination
Colonoscopy
Treatments / Symptom Management
Topical creams and suppositories
Life style modifications (ensure loose stools, avoid straining or sitting for prolonged periods, increase excercise)
Surgery for severe cases