What are piles (haemorrhoids)?
Haemorrhoids are cushions of swollen blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be internal or external and are often graded by how much they protrude. They are common and not usually serious, but symptoms can be troublesome.
Symptoms & when to see a doctor
Common symptoms include bright-red bleeding when passing stool, itching, discomfort or a lump. Because bleeding can have other causes, it should always be assessed by a doctor. Diagnosis is made by a clinical examination, sometimes with a proctoscopy.
Treatment options
Many cases improve with more fibre and fluids and simple measures. When more is needed, treatments range from non-surgical options to day-care procedures.
- Dietary and lifestyle measures
- Non-surgical treatments such as rubber-band ligation
- Day-care procedures, including stapled and laser treatments
- Surgical removal (haemorrhoidectomy) for advanced piles
Recovery
Recovery depends on the treatment used; non-surgical and day-care options usually allow a quick return to normal activity.
Where suitable, this may be carried out using minimally invasive techniques. See Minimally Invasive Surgery.
Frequently asked questions
Do piles always need surgery?
No. Most piles improve with dietary measures and simple treatments. Surgery or a day-care procedure is considered when symptoms persist or piles are advanced.
Is bleeding from the back passage always piles?
Not necessarily. Bleeding can have several causes, some of which need investigation, so it should always be assessed by a doctor rather than assumed to be piles.
Are day-care or laser options available?
Yes. Several piles treatments can be done as day-care procedures, including stapled and laser techniques for suitable patients. Your surgeon will advise on the best option.