Fast, discreet relief from haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels that occur inside or around the anus and cause itching, bleeding and discomfort. They are a mild condition that affects around 10% of adults in Europe. Most cases of haemorrhoids do go away on their own, but treatment options are available to promote healing and comfort.

Haemorrhoids are caused by swollen blood vessels in the anus. They are usually caused by excess pressure on the anus and abdomen. This can happen for several reasons:

• constipation or frequent diarrhoea
• straining too hard when going to the toilet
• heavy lifting
• during pregnancy
• being overweight

There are two types of haemorrhoids: internal and external haemorrhoids.

• Internal haemorrhoids - Develop inside the rectum and cannot usually be seen or felt. They aren’t usually painful.
• External haemorrhoids - Develop under the skin around the anus. This type is usually uncomfortable and most likely to bleed.

There are several symptoms of haemorrhoids (piles), including:

• bright red blood after going to the toilet
• an itchy anus
• still feeling the need to use the toilet after going
• mucus in underwear or on the toilet paper after wiping
• soft, fleshy lumps around the anus (external haemorrhoids)
• pain around the anus

A doctor can diagnose haemorrhoids by reviewing your symptoms and medical history. They may perform a physical exam, which usually involves a digital rectal exam with a gloved finger. They may need to do additional tests to rule out other conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease or anal fissures.

Haemorrhoids treatment will depend on the type of haemorrhoids. Internal haemorrhoids will need to be treated with suppositories, while external haemorrhoids will typically need to be treated with a cream or ointment.

There are several types of treatment available:

• Numbing creams - these treatments contain a mild anaesthetic like lidocaine that helps to provide pain relief.
• Combination treatments - these treatments contain both an anaesthetic and a mild steroid like hydrocortisone to target pain and inflammation (e.g. Anusol HC, Scheriproct and Proctosedyl).
• Constipation treatments - you may require treatment for constipation or to soften stools to help prevent haemorrhoids.

Rarely, some cases of haemorrhoids that are not resolved with prescription treatment may require hospital treatment.

There are several things you can do to help improve haemorrhoids and limit any discomfort.

• drink lots of fluids and eat plenty of fibre to promote healthy digestion
• wipe with damp toilet paper
• take a warm bath to ease itching and pain
• use an ice pack to ease discomfort
• gently push a pile back inside
• do not ignore the urge to use the toilet
• avoid straining too hard when using the toilet
• limit the amount of time spent on the toilet

If suitable, you can take paracetamol to ease pain. Do not take codeine, as this can cause constipation as a side effect. You should also avoid ibuprofen if your piles are bleeding.

Yes, haemorrhoids can go away on their own within a few days. However, you should consult your doctor if they do not go away on their own or they are causing you particular discomfort.

If your symptoms persist for more than 7 days or get worse, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Also, see your doctor if you experience heavy bleeding, black stools or severe pain. Your doctor will want to check your medical history to rule out other conditions and decide the best treatment course.

You can order haemorrhoids treatment online from 121doc. 121doc offers an online service that allows you to complete a secure medical questionnaire and receive expert guidance and treatment options without the need for a face-to-face appointment.