What can I do about haemorrhoids? | NHS

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swellings containing enlarged blood vessels found inside or around the bottom (the rectum and anus).

Common symptoms include bleeding after passing a stool, itchy bottom, a lump hanging outside the anus that may need to be pushed back in after passing a stool, and a mucus discharge after passing a stool.

The exact cause is unclear, but they are often associated with increased pressure in the blood vessels in and around the anus. Contributing factors include chronic constipation or diarrhoea, straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, and ageing.

To prevent haemorrhoids, maintain a high-fibre diet to keep stools soft, drink plenty of fluids, avoid straining during bowel movements, and exercise regularly.

See a GP if you experience bleeding from the bottom, if over-the-counter treatments haven't helped, or if you continue to have symptoms like severe pain or discomfort.

Over-the-counter treatments include creams, ointments, and suppositories, which can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.

Home remedies include soaking in a warm bath several times a day, especially after bowel movements, and using moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper.

Yes, lifestyle changes like increasing dietary fibre intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet can help manage and prevent haemorrhoids.

Small haemorrhoids can sometimes improve on their own without treatment. However, lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments can help relieve symptoms more quickly.

Haemorrhoids are not usually dangerous, but they can be extremely uncomfortable. Persistent or severe cases should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

For more severe haemorrhoids, treatments include banding (where a tight elastic band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply), sclerotherapy (where a hardening agent is injected to shrink the haemorrhoid), and surgical removal.

Yes, gentle exercise such as walking can help stimulate bowel function. However, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that could exacerbate the haemorrhoids.

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol can be used to alleviate pain. Follow the dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if you are unsure.

A diet high in fibre, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, can help produce soft stools that are easier to pass and reduce the risk of haemorrhoids.

Yes, sitting for extended periods, particularly on the toilet, can contribute to the development of haemorrhoids by increasing pressure on the blood vessels in the anal area.