Overview
Haemorrhoids (piles) are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus that can itch, ache or bleed, especially during constipation and straining. They are very common and often linked to a low-fibre diet, pregnancy or prolonged sitting. Most cases settle with fibre, fluids and simple treatment.
Symptoms
- Bright red blood on stool, tissue or in the toilet bowl
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- A soft lump at the anus
- Discomfort or pain when passing stool
- Mucus discharge
- Feeling of incomplete emptying
Causes & risk factors
- Straining during constipation
- Low-fibre diet and inadequate water intake
- Prolonged sitting, including long toilet sessions
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Heavy lifting
Treatment & self-care
Eat more fibre (vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains), drink plenty of water and avoid straining or sitting long on the toilet; warm sitz baths soothe flare-ups. Doctors may prescribe creams or suppositories, and persistent or large piles can be treated with simple clinic procedures or surgery. Any rectal bleeding should be properly examined at least once — never assume it is only piles.
See a doctor urgently if
- Rectal bleeding that is heavy, dark or mixed into the stool
- Bleeding with weight loss or a change in bowel habit
- A painful, hard lump at the anus
- Piles that keep prolapsing or do not improve with care