Quick answer
What is haemorrhoids (piles)?
Haemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen blood vessels in or around the bottom. They can cause itching, discomfort and bright red bleeding after passing a stool. They are very common, often linked to constipation, and frequently settle with self-care, though any rectal bleeding should be checked by a GP.
What are haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids, usually called piles, are swollen blood vessels found inside or around the bottom (the anus and lower rectum). They are extremely common and are often caused by increased pressure in the area. Many people get them at some point, and they frequently clear up on their own.
Symptoms
Haemorrhoids may cause:
- bright red blood after passing a stool
- itching or irritation around the bottom
- discomfort, soreness or a feeling of fullness
- a lump around or just inside the bottom
- mucus discharge
Some haemorrhoids cause no symptoms at all.
What causes them
They are usually linked to extra pressure in the lower bowel. Common contributors include constipation and straining, pregnancy, persistent coughing, heavy lifting, and sitting for long periods. Getting older also makes them more likely.
Treatment and self-help
The most important step is to avoid constipation and straining:
- eat more fibre and drink plenty of fluids
- avoid pushing or straining when you go
- keep the area clean and dry
- use a cold pack and pharmacy creams or ointments to ease symptoms
Most piles improve with these measures. If symptoms are persistent or severe, a GP can advise on further treatments, some of which are simple procedures done in a clinic.
Why you should still see a GP
Although piles are a common and usually harmless cause of bleeding from the bottom, you should always have any rectal bleeding checked, so a GP can confirm the cause and rule out anything more serious.
Common questions
- What causes haemorrhoids?
- They are often caused by increased pressure in and around the bottom — commonly from constipation and straining, but also from pregnancy, persistent coughing, heavy lifting or sitting for long periods.
- Do haemorrhoids go away on their own?
- Mild haemorrhoids often improve within a few days to weeks, especially once any constipation is addressed. Treatments from a pharmacy can ease symptoms while they settle.
- How can I treat haemorrhoids at home?
- Avoiding constipation is key — eat more fibre, drink plenty of fluids and avoid straining. Keeping the area clean, using a cold pack for discomfort, and pharmacy creams or ointments can all help relieve symptoms.
- When should bleeding from the bottom be checked?
- Always. While bright red bleeding is commonly caused by piles, a GP should confirm the cause, as bleeding can occasionally be a sign of something more serious that needs ruling out.