Piles (haemorrhoids)

Piles are common and usually not dangerous. However, bleeding from the anus needs attention, because without an examination you cannot always be sure where the blood is coming from.

• Piles are enlarged or displaced cushions of blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be inside, drop down and protrude, or develop as a painful swelling under the skin near the anus.
• Common symptoms include bright red bleeding, itching, a burning sensation or feeling of pressure, mucus, a lump and sometimes pain.
• Keeping your poo soft is the basis of treatment: eat plenty of fibre, drink an amount suited to your health, be physically active and do not strain.
• A cream or suppository can temporarily relieve a symptom, but usually does not make the pile go away. Use these products for a short time and follow the patient information leaflet or the advice of a pharmacist or doctor.
• Have bleeding assessed if it happens for the first time, comes back, is not clearly caused by piles or occurs alongside other changes.
• Get help immediately for heavy bleeding or bleeding that does not stop, fainting, severe pain with fever, or if you seem clearly unwell.