Haemorrhoids (Piles)
Haemorrhoids (Piles) are swollen veins around the anus that can cause discomfort and bleeding. Soothing haemorrhoid treatments are available through Chemist Doctor after online consultation with UK-registered practitioners. Effective options range from creams to oral medications.
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Table of Contents
- What Are Haemorrhoids (Piles) and What Causes Them?
- Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment: First-Line Management
- Recognising Haemorrhoids (Piles) Symptoms
- How Are Haemorrhoids (Piles) Diagnosed?
- Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment Options
- Preventing Haemorrhoid Recurrence
- In-Office Procedures
- Where Can I Buy Haemorrhoid Treatment Online in the UK
- Haemorrhoid FAQs
Haemorrhoids (piles) are swollen blood vessels around the rectum and anus, affecting 75% of UK adults at some stage. While often mild, persistent cases may require medical attention.
What Are Haemorrhoids (Piles) and What Causes Them?
Haemorrhoids develop when pressure distends the venous plexuses in the anal canal, creating internal or external swellings:
- Internal haemorrhoids: Above the dentate line (pain-insensitive area)
- External haemorrhoids: Below the dentate line (pain-sensitive area)
Key Risk Factors
- Chronic constipation (affects 40% of over-50s in UK)
- Pregnancy-related venous pressure
- Prolonged sitting (>6 hours/day)
- Obesity (BMI >30 increases risk 2.5x)
Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment: First-Line Management
Most Grade I-II haemorrhoids respond to conservative measures:
- Fibre supplementation: Aim for 30g/day (NHS guidelines)
- Topical treatments: Hydrocortisone creams (max 7-day use)
- Sitz baths: 15-minute warm baths 2-3x daily
Recognising Haemorrhoids (Piles) Symptoms
| Grade | Description | Prevalence |
|---|---|---|
| I | Non-prolapsing, minimal bleeding | 45% of cases |
| II | Prolapse with spontaneous reduction | 35% of cases |
| III | Manual reduction required | 15% of cases |
| IV | Irreducible prolapse | 5% of cases |
Red flag symptoms requiring GP assessment:
- Persistent rectal bleeding (especially if >50 years)
- Change in bowel habits lasting >6 weeks
- Unintentional weight loss
How Are Haemorrhoids (Piles) Diagnosed?
Diagnosis follows NICE guidelines (NG12):
- Digital rectal examination (DRE)
- Proctoscopy (for internal assessment)
- Rule out differentials: Anal fissure, colorectal cancer
Note: 68% of patients with rectal bleeding have non-cancer causes (BMJ 2022).
Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment Options
First-Line Therapies
| Approach | Mechanism | Efficacy |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre Supplementation | Softens stool via soluble fibre | Reduces bleeding in 67% cases |
| Sitz Baths | Warm water immersion (38-40°C) | ↓ Pain scores by 40% |
| Topical Anaesthetics | Lidocaine 5% formulations | Onset <15 minutes |
Medical Interventions
- Rubber Band Ligation: 79% success rate for Grade II-III
- Infrared Coagulation: 3-5 sessions typically required
- Sclerotherapy: Phenol almond oil injections
Preventing Haemorrhoid Recurrence
Diet & Hydration
- 35g/day fibre intake (NHS guidelines)
- 2L fluid daily (avoid caffeine post-3pm)
Bowel Habits
- Limit toilet time to <3 minutes
- Use foot stool for anatomical positioning
Physical Activity
- 150 mins/week moderate exercise
- Kegel exercises for pelvic floor
In-Office Procedures
For persistent Grade III-IV haemorrhoids:
Treatment Pathway
- Week 1: Conservative measures
- Week 2-4: Topical corticosteroids
- Week 6+: Referral for banding
Myths vs Facts
| Myth | Reality |
|---|---|
| "Spicy foods cause piles" | No direct link (NHS 2023) |
| "Surgery is always needed" | Only 4% require haemorrhoidectomy |
Where Can I Buy Haemorrhoid Treatment Online in the UK
Secure Haemorrhoid Prescription & Next-Day Delivery Service
Order haemorrhoid treatment with confidence through our UK-registered medical prescribers, who review all requests within 4 working hours. We guarantee same-day prescription approval for eligible patients and dispatch orders placed before 3pm for next-day tracked delivery.
Our haemorrhoid treatment service combines competitive pricing with strict adherence to MHRA safety standards, ensuring your medication is dispensed through GPhC-registered pharmacies. Every purchase includes discreet packaging and a GDPR-compliant consultation process.
Our haemorrhoid clinical team ensures:
- Full symptom assessment (including bleeding and prolapse evaluation)
- Review of bowel habits and constipation risk factors
- Personalised treatment plan (creams, ointments or suppositories)
Start Your Haemorrhoid Consultation to Order Now
Always consult your GP if experiencing rectal bleeding for the first time, severe pain, or if symptoms persist beyond 7 days. Not suitable during pregnancy without medical advice.
 | Authored by Nabeel M |
Medical Content Manager & Pharmacy Associate
Nabeel is a co-founder of Chemist Doctor. He works closely with our medical team to ensure the information is accurate and up-to-date.
 | Reviewed by Usman M (2073618) |
Director & Superintendent Pharmacist
Usman is a co-founder, and superintendent pharmacist of Chemist Doctor. He leads the clinical team and online prescribing services, utilising his expertise.
Review Date: 24 May 2025
Next Review: 14 December 2025
Published on: 23 May 2025
Last Updated: 24 May 2025
Responsible Pharmacist
 | Usman Mir Superintendent GPhc: 2073618 |
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Chemist Doctor is an online pharmacy and online doctor service, owned and operated by Chem Doc Ltd (Company Reg. 16478812). Prescriptions are managed by our sister company, Inspire Pharmacy (GPhC No. 9011381), a registered pharmacy located at Unit 18, Croft Road Industrial Estate, Newcastle-under-Lyme, Staffordshire, ST5 0TW. The content on this website is for informational purposes only. It should support, not replace, advice from your healthcare provider. Always consult your doctor if you suspect a health issue or before beginning new medication. Ensure you read the leaflets provided with any medicines. For further details, visit our policies and terms & conditions at the bottom of each page.
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