Haemorrhoids affect the anal area and rectum and there are two main types: internal or external, and they can be further classified, depending on their size and severity:
• first degree – small swellings that develop on the inside lining of the anus and are not visible from outside the anus
• second degree – larger swellings that may come out of your anus when you go to the lavatory, before disappearing inside again
• third degree – one or more small soft lumps that hang down from the anus and can be pushed back inside (prolapsing and reducible)
• fourth degree – larger lumps that hang down from the anus and cannot be pushed back inside (irreducible)
SEE ALSO: Skin Condition: Eczema
Examinations
There are over the counter creams and ointments that can be effective but if the condition doesn’t improve and perhaps you have some bleeding, then you need to see your GP.
The condition is a very common one and doctors are used to diagnosing and treating piles, so there’s no need to feel embarrassed. It will be important to tell you doctor about any symptoms you may be aware of, such as recent significant loss of weight, if your bowel movements have changed or if your stools look dark or sticky.
Your GP may examine the outside of your anus to see if you have visible haemorrhoids, and they may also carry out an internal examination called a digital rectal examination (DRE).
During a DRE, your GP will wear gloves and use lubricant. Using their finger, they will feel for any abnormalities in your back passage. A DRE should not be painful, but you may feel some slight discomfort.
Causes
Everyone knows what piles are but what causes the condition is still not clear. Straining due to constipation is considered one cause and will, of course, exacerbate the condition if it already exists. And there are a number of factors that can increase your risk of developing piles:
• a family history of haemorrhoids, which could mean you’re more likely to get them
• a persistent cough or repeated vomiting
• being over 45 years of age—as you get older, your body’s supporting tissues get weaker, increasing your risk of haemorrhoids
• being overweight or obese
• being pregnant, which can place increased pressure on your pelvic blood vessels, causing them to enlarge (the haemorrhoids will usually improve after you give birth)
• persistent constipation, often due to a lack of fibre in your diet
• prolonged diarrhoea
• prolonged sitting down
• regularly lifting heavy objects
Self-help
It is often the case that your piles will reduce and clear up altogether within a week. During that time, the discomfort and itching can be unpleasant but there are ointments and other self-help treatments that will help alleviate the condition. Making simple dietary changes and not straining on the lavatory are often recommended first. Increasing the amount of fibre in your diet is recommended, such as bran, wholegrain bread, cereal, fruit and vegetables. You should also drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine (found in tea, coffee and cola).
Various creams, ointments and suppositories are available over the counter (OTC) from pharmacies without a prescription. They can be used to relieve any swelling and discomfort. It is recommended that these medicines should only be used for five to seven days at a time. If you use them for longer, they may irritate the sensitive skin around your anus. Any medication should be combined with the diet and self-care advice detailed above.
Treatments
If the above OTC and self-help remedies are inadequate in solving your condition, clinical treatment may be your best option.
Ultroid is a fast, effective and safe treatment for internal piles recently introduced in the UK. The procedure is straightforward and usually painless. A gentle current is applied to the base of the haemorrhoid for up to ten minutes, causing it to shrink by around 50 percent—with no needles or sharp instruments needed.
Ultroid informs us that most people are cured after one treatment session, but the number of treatments depends on how many piles you have and how large they are. You can contact Ultroid’s confidential advice service on 0800 999 3777.
Surgery
It is possible that surgery may be recommended by your GP to remove haemorrhoids, and there are other options are available, including freezing and laser treatment, although the number of NHS or private surgeons who perform these treatments is currently limited.
However, if you’re planning to seek any clinical treatments, Dr Chris advises that your first step is to discuss your condition with your GP.
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