What are piles?

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or around the anus. They can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and bleeding. Piles are common and can affect people of all ages, though they are more frequent in adults. While they are not usually dangerous, they can cause significant discomfort and may require treatment.

Key Takeaways:

Piles are swollen blood vessels in your bottom.

They can make sitting uncomfortable and may cause itching, pain, or bleeding, but they are not usually dangerous.

They can be caused by straining too hard on the toilet.

Eating lots of fibre, drinking plenty of water, and staying active can help prevent piles.

Most piles go away with simple treatments.

Creams, warm baths, and avoiding sitting for too long can help, but if they don’t improve, a doctor can provide stronger treatment.

Symptoms of Piles

If you suspect you have piles, recognising the symptoms can help you decide whether to seek medical advice. Symptoms of haemorrhoids include:

• Pain or discomfort in and around the anus

• Lumps or swelling around the anus

• Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet after passing a stool

• Itching or irritation around the anus

• A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying after using the toilet

• Mucus discharge on toilet paper or in underwear

Piles symptoms often improve within a few days with self-care or treatment. However, if you experience persistent bleeding, severe pain, or worsening symptoms, it’s important to consult a doctor.

Internal vs External Haemorrhoids

Piles are classified into two main types:

Internal Haemorrhoids

• Located inside the rectum and usually painless

• May cause bleeding when passing a stool

• In some cases, internal haemorrhoids can prolapse (push out of the anus)

External Haemorrhoids

• Develop around the outside of the anus

• Can be painful, itchy, and swollen

• May form a blood clot (thrombosed haemorrhoid), which can be very painful

If internal haemorrhoids prolapse, they may need to be pushed back inside the anus manually. Prolapsed piles are more likely to cause discomfort than regular internal haemorrhoids.

What Causes Piles?

Piles develop when there is increased pressure on the blood vessels in the rectal area. Common causes include:

• Constipation or straining during bowel movements

• Chronic diarrhoea

• Sitting on the toilet for long periods

• Pregnancy, due to increased pressure on the pelvic area

• Heavy lifting

• Obesity, which puts additional strain on the veins in the rectum

• Low-fibre diets, leading to harder stools and more straining

Maintaining good bowel habits and a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing piles.

How to Treat Piles

Most cases of piles improve within a few days with simple home treatments. However, if symptoms persist or cause significant discomfort, treatment options are available.

Self-Care and Home Remedies

• Increase fibre intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) to soften stools

• Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation

• Avoid straining during bowel movements

• Use moist toilet wipes instead of dry toilet paper

• Take warm baths (sitz baths) to soothe irritation

• Avoid sitting for long periods and stay active

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Treatments

Several OTC haemorrhoid treatments can help relieve symptoms:

• Creams and ointments (e.g. Anusol, Germoloids) to reduce inflammation and pain

• Suppositories for internal piles

• Pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen

Prescription Treatments

For more severe or persistent cases, prescription treatments may be necessary:

• Uniroid, Perinal and Scheriproct – stronger medicated creams

• Laxatives if constipation is a contributing factor

• Medical procedures (in severe cases) such as banding or surgery

When to See a Doctor

Seek medical advice if you experience:

• Persistent or severe pain

• Heavy bleeding from the rectum

• Piles that do not improve with home treatment

• Changes in bowel habits that last more than a few weeks

A doctor can diagnose piles and recommend appropriate treatment options, ensuring your symptoms are managed effectively.

Final Thoughts

Piles are a common and treatable condition. While they can be uncomfortable, they often improve with self-care and over-the-counter treatments. Making lifestyle changes such as eating a high-fibre diet, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help prevent piles from returning.

If your symptoms persist, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Relief is available, and managing piles effectively can significantly improve your quality of life.