Haemorrhoids

How to help piles at home

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are very common and often improve with the right self-care. While symptoms can be uncomfortable, many people find they can manage or prevent piles with simple lifestyle changes and appropriate treatment.

What are piles?

Piles are swollen or enlarged blood vessels that develop in or around the anus and lower rectum. They can be internal, inside the rectum, or external, around the opening of the anus.

Common symptoms include itching, soreness, swelling, discomfort when sitting, and bleeding when passing stools. In many cases, piles improve on their own within a few days or weeks.

What causes piles?

Piles develop when extra pressure is placed on the blood vessels in the rectum. This pressure can come from several factors.

Constipation is one of the most common causes, especially when straining on the toilet. A low-fibre diet can make stools harder to pass, increasing strain. Being overweight can add pressure to the lower bowel, while pregnancy can also increase pressure due to hormonal changes and the growing uterus.

Other contributing factors include ageing, a family history of piles, frequent heavy lifting, long periods of sitting, or a persistent cough.

Managing piles at home

Lifestyle changes play an important role in easing symptoms and reducing the risk of piles returning.

A diet high in fibre helps soften stools and supports regular bowel movements. Fibre is found in wholegrain bread and cereals, fruit, vegetables, beans, lentils, and oats. Most adults benefit from gradually increasing fibre intake while drinking plenty of fluids.

Staying well hydrated is essential, as fibre works best when combined with fluids. Aim to drink water regularly throughout the day.

Regular physical activity helps support digestion and bowel health. Even gentle daily movement can make a difference.

Habits that can help reduce symptoms

Avoid straining on the toilet and don’t delay going when you feel the urge. Sitting on the toilet for long periods can worsen symptoms, so try not to linger.

Wearing loose clothing around the waist and avoiding heavy lifting where possible may also reduce pressure on the area.

Some people find that reducing caffeine and alcohol helps, as these can contribute to dehydration and constipation.

Relieving pile symptoms

If piles are sore or itchy, there are ways to ease discomfort.

Cold packs can help reduce swelling. Using moist toilet tissue or wipes instead of dry paper may be gentler on sensitive skin.

Pharmacy treatments such as haemorrhoid creams, ointments, or suppositories can help relieve pain, itching, and swelling. These are available following advice from a pharmacist.

If constipation is contributing to symptoms, fibre supplements or stool-softening treatments may help make bowel movements more comfortable.

Pain relief such as paracetamol may be used if needed.

When to seek further advice

Most piles improve with self-care and treatment, but you should seek advice if symptoms don’t improve, keep returning, or worsen.

Bleeding from the back passage should always be checked if it’s heavy, persistent, or accompanied by severe pain. In these cases, contact your GP or seek urgent medical care.