Haemorrhoids (often referred to as Piles) are swollen veins around the back passage which may itch, ache or feel sore. They are prone to bleeding and make going to the toilet uncomfortable and often very painful. About half of the population has haemorrhoids by the age of 50 and they are rarely dangerous. However, bleeding from the back passage can be a sign of more serious ailments, so you must consult your GP if you notice any.
Here are some of the most common causes of haemorrhoids:
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One of the top causes of haemorrhoids is constipation. Straining to pass a stool puts greater pressure on the veins.
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Around 48% of pregnant women suffer from haemorrhoids during the pregnancy or soon after the birth. Haemorrhoids are a common problem caused by hormonal changes and increased pressure by the growing fetus, which forces the veins to work harder to pump blood into the area. However, for most women haemorrhoids during pregnancy are a temporary problem.
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Chronic venous insufficiency. Haemorrhoids can be a sign of general weakness in the veins. Contributing factors are standing or sitting for long periods, being overweight, not exercising enough, and smoking.
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Inflammatory bowel disease. Ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease may be the underlying cause of haemorrhoids.
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Aging is a large factor in the development of haemorrhoids. Starting in the thirties, there is a progressive weakening of the support structures in the area.
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Blood covering the stool, toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
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Painful swelling/hard lumps around the anus.
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Symptoms often go away for a while, then return worse than before.
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Acute pain, itching and irritation of the back passage.
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Sensation of having a bowel movement, even when there is no stool.
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Take a long hot bath in plain water, several times a day.
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Use a natural haemorrhoid cream such as H+care Cream - to help relieve the discomfort and soothe the area. (Always read the label.)
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Use a moist, hygienic wipe after passing stools or before applying haemorrhoid cream. H+care Wipes contains a blend of natural ingredients to calm and soothe delicate skin. (Always read the label.)∏
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Increase the intake of fruit and fiber in your diet. This helps soften stools so that they can pass more easily, preventing straining.
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Drink several glasses of water a day. The more water you drink, the easier it will be to pass a stool and the less discomfort you will have.
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Exercise is known to relieve constipation which will help prevent haemorrhoids.
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Try not to sit or stand for too long
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Avoid using rough toilet paper as this will irritate your haemorrhoids.
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Sit, but don’t strain as you try to pass a bowel movement – let it happen as naturally as possible.
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Adopt more of a squatting position on the toilet - try putting your feet on a small stool. This will enable you to pass stools easier and with minimal pain.
† Medical referral is advisable if symptoms worsen or persist.
∏ On no account should prescribed medication be discontinued, except under a doctor’s supervision.
UK & Ireland 