Haemorrhoids (Piles)

Key Points

Overview

Haemorrhoids, commonly called piles, are swollen blood vessels located inside or around your anus. They can be uncomfortable but are often not serious and frequently resolve on their own after a few days. While the exact cause isn't always clear, piles often develop due to increased pressure in the veins of the rectum and anus. Factors like constipation, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, and aging can contribute to their formation. Treatment typically starts with home care, including dietary adjustments and over-the-counter remedies. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical intervention from a pharmacist or doctor may be needed, ranging from stronger medications to minor procedures or surgery.

Signs and Symptoms

• Bright red blood after pooing
• Itchy anus
• Feeling of incomplete bowel movement
• Mucus in underwear or on toilet paper
• Lumps around the anus
• Pain around the anus

Things That Increase the Risk

• Constipation
• Straining during bowel movements
• Heavy lifting
• Pregnancy
• Getting older
• Being overweight

Diagnosis

• Review of symptoms by a doctor
• Physical examination of the anal area
• Ruling out other potential causes of symptoms

Treatment & Management

• Gently push piles back inside (if possible)
• Take paracetamol for pain relief
• Use an ice pack wrapped in a towel for discomfort
• Drink plenty of fluids and eat fiber for soft stools
• Take warm baths to ease itching and pain
• Use creams from a pharmacist for pain, itching, and swelling
• Laxatives to help with constipation and soften poo
• Rubber band ligation to make piles drop off
• Sclerotherapy (injections to shrink piles)
• Electrotherapy or infrared coagulation to shrink piles
• Surgery (e.g., haemorrhoidectomy) for severe cases

Prevention

• Eat plenty of fiber-rich foods
• Drink lots of water and other fluids
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Do not ignore the urge to poo
• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Avoid painkillers containing codeine
• Limit time spent on the toilet

Related Diseases

• Anal Fissures
• Rectal Prolapse
• Inflammatory Bowel Disease
• Colorectal Cancer

Available Treatments

Explore our range of treatment options for Haemorrhoids (Piles):

Surgical Options

Learn about surgical procedures available for Haemorrhoids (Piles):