Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids Treatment | Piles Relief | Allied Pharmacies

Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. They are extremely common and affect many adults at some point during their lives. While haemorrhoids can be uncomfortable, itchy, and sometimes painful, they are rarely serious and can usually be treated effectively with over-the-counter remedies and self-care measures. At Allied Pharmacies, our pharmacists provide confidential advice, effective treatments, and ongoing support to help you manage haemorrhoids and find relief quickly.

What Are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swellings that develop from the lining of the anus and lower rectum. According to the NHS, they are very common and many people have them without even realising. There are two main types of haemorrhoids:

• Internal haemorrhoids – these develop inside the rectum and are usually painless, though they may cause bleeding during bowel movements. In some cases, internal haemorrhoids can prolapse, meaning they push through the anus.
• External haemorrhoids – these form under the skin around the anus and can be more painful, particularly if a blood clot develops within them, known as a thrombosed haemorrhoid.

Haemorrhoids can range from mild to severe and often resolve on their own within a few days. However, if symptoms persist or recur frequently, pharmacy treatment can help manage the condition and prevent it from worsening.

Symptoms of Haemorrhoids

The symptoms of haemorrhoids vary depending on the type and severity. Common symptoms include:

• Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement
• Itching, soreness, or irritation around the anus
• A lump or swelling near the anus that may be tender to touch
• Pain or discomfort during or after passing stools
• A feeling of fullness or incomplete bowel emptying
• Mucus discharge from the anus

If you notice any rectal bleeding, it is important to have it checked to rule out other conditions. Our pharmacists can assess your symptoms and advise whether pharmacy treatment is appropriate or if you should see your GP for further investigation.

What Causes Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids develop when the blood vessels in and around the anus become swollen due to increased pressure. Common causes and risk factors include:

• Straining during bowel movements – this is one of the most common causes, often linked to constipation or hard stools
• Chronic constipation or diarrhoea – both can increase pressure on the blood vessels around the anus
• Pregnancy – the increased pressure on the pelvic area during pregnancy makes haemorrhoids very common in pregnant women
• Sitting for long periods – spending extended time sitting, particularly on the toilet, can contribute to haemorrhoid development
• Heavy lifting – regularly lifting heavy objects can increase abdominal pressure
• Ageing – the tissues supporting the blood vessels in the rectum can weaken with age
• Low-fibre diet – a diet lacking in fibre can lead to constipation, which increases straining
• Obesity – excess body weight puts additional pressure on the pelvic blood vessels

Self-Care Tips for Haemorrhoids

Many cases of haemorrhoids can be managed effectively at home with simple self-care measures. The NHS recommends the following approaches:

• Eat a high-fibre diet including plenty of fruit, vegetables, wholegrains, and pulses to keep stools soft
• Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated and support healthy bowel movements
• Avoid straining when using the toilet – do not hold your breath or push excessively
• Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge rather than delaying
• Take a warm bath to soothe pain and irritation
• Use damp toilet paper or fragrance-free wipes rather than dry toilet paper
• Apply a cold pack wrapped in a cloth to the affected area for short periods to reduce swelling
• Stay physically active to help prevent constipation

Avoid using products that may irritate the skin around the anus, such as scented soaps, bubble baths, or talcum powder. If symptoms do not improve within seven days of self-care, visit your nearest Allied Pharmacies branch for further advice and treatment.

Treatment Options for Haemorrhoids

A range of over-the-counter treatments are available from Allied Pharmacies to help relieve haemorrhoid symptoms. These include:

• Creams and ointments – topical treatments containing ingredients such as lidocaine or hydrocortisone can reduce pain, itching, and inflammation
• Suppositories – these are inserted into the rectum and can deliver medication directly to internal haemorrhoids
• Stool softeners and laxatives – if constipation is contributing to your haemorrhoids, gentle laxatives can help make stools softer and easier to pass
• Pain relief – paracetamol can help manage discomfort associated with haemorrhoids

Our pharmacists can recommend the most suitable treatment based on your symptoms and severity. Steroid-based treatments should not be used for longer than seven days without medical advice, and our team will ensure you understand how to use each product safely and effectively.

When to Seek Medical Advice

While most haemorrhoids can be treated at home or with pharmacy remedies, you should see your GP if you experience any of the following:

• Symptoms that do not improve after seven days of pharmacy treatment
• Persistent or heavy rectal bleeding
• Severe pain that does not respond to over-the-counter treatments
• A noticeable change in your bowel habits
• Dark or black stools, which may indicate bleeding higher in the digestive tract

In some cases, haemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative treatment may require procedures such as banding, sclerotherapy, or surgery. Our pharmacists can help you determine when a GP referral is appropriate.

Haemorrhoids During Pregnancy

Haemorrhoids are particularly common during pregnancy and in the weeks following childbirth. The increased pressure on the pelvic blood vessels caused by the growing uterus, combined with hormonal changes that relax the walls of blood vessels, makes pregnant women especially susceptible. Constipation, which is also more common during pregnancy, can further aggravate the condition.

If you are pregnant and experiencing haemorrhoids, our pharmacists can recommend treatments that are safe to use during pregnancy. Not all haemorrhoid creams and ointments are suitable for pregnant women, so it is important to seek professional advice before using any product. Simple measures such as increasing your fibre and fluid intake, gentle exercise, and avoiding prolonged standing or sitting can all help manage symptoms during pregnancy.

How to Prevent Haemorrhoids

Preventing haemorrhoids largely involves maintaining healthy bowel habits and a balanced lifestyle. Key prevention strategies include eating a fibre-rich diet, staying well hydrated, exercising regularly, and avoiding prolonged sitting. If you are prone to constipation, our pharmacists can recommend appropriate fibre supplements or gentle laxatives to keep your bowel movements regular and comfortable.

How Our Haemorrhoids Treatment Service Works

Getting help for haemorrhoids at Allied Pharmacies is simple and discreet. Visit any of our branches and speak to a pharmacist in confidence. No appointment is needed. Our pharmacist will ask about your symptoms, recommend appropriate treatments, and provide self-care advice to help you manage and prevent haemorrhoids effectively.

Why Choose Allied Pharmacies?

Allied Pharmacies offers a confidential, professional haemorrhoids treatment service with:

• No appointment needed – walk in for discreet advice and treatment
• Wide range of over-the-counter haemorrhoid treatments
• Private consultation rooms for your comfort
• Expert dietary and lifestyle advice to prevent recurrence
• Referral to your GP if further treatment is needed

Related Services

You may also be interested in these related services at Allied Pharmacies:

• Common Ailments Scheme – NHS treatment for a range of minor health conditions
• Independent Prescribing Pharmacist – access prescription medications without a GP appointment
• Back Pain Treatment – pharmacy consultation and treatment for back pain

Find Haemorrhoids Treatment Near You

Visit your nearest Allied Pharmacies branch for confidential haemorrhoid treatment and expert advice. Our pharmacists are here to help you find effective relief and prevent haemorrhoids from returning. For more information, visit the NHS haemorrhoids guide.