HAEMORRHOIDS (PILES) FAQs: COMMON QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles or hemorrhoids, are one of the most common conditions we see at Nassau Clinic. Below are straightforward answers to the questions patients ask us most often. If your question is not covered here or your symptoms need a haemorrhoid assessment and treatment, Dr. Liam is available at our Nassau Clinic in Dublin 2, with no GP referral required.
Q.1 What are the first signs of piles?
The first signs of piles include bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl after a bowel movement, itching or discomfort around the anal area, a dull ache when sitting, and a feeling that your bowels have not fully emptied. Some people also notice a tender lump near the anal opening.
Q.2 What causes a haemorrhoid flare-up?
Haemorrhoid flare-ups are most commonly caused by straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or loose stools, a low-fibre diet, prolonged sitting, and increased pressure during pregnancy. Dehydration and a lack of physical activity can also contribute.
Q.3 What is mistaken for haemorrhoids?
Several conditions are commonly mistaken for haemorrhoids, including anal fissures, anal skin tags, perianal abscesses, rectal prolapse, and in some cases, colorectal cancer. Because rectal bleeding and discomfort can be symptoms of more serious conditions, it is always worth getting a proper assessment rather than assuming the cause.
Q.4 How can you tell if it is a haemorrhoid or something more serious?
Haemorrhoids typically cause bright red blood on toilet paper, itching, and discomfort around the anal area. Dark or mixed blood in the stool, unexplained weight loss, a change in bowel habits lasting more than a few weeks, or persistent pain that does not improve are all signs that warrant a proper medical assessment.
Q.5 What are the red flags for haemorrhoids?
Red flags that require prompt medical assessment include dark or tarry blood in the stool, bleeding that occurs without a bowel movement, unexplained weight loss, a persistent change in bowel habits, severe or worsening pain, and symptoms that do not improve with treatment. These may indicate a more serious underlying condition.
Q.6 What happens if a haemorrhoid is left untreated?
Untreated haemorrhoids can worsen over time, leading to increased pain, swelling, and in some cases a thrombosed haemorrhoid or anaemia from chronic bleeding. Persistent symptoms are unlikely to resolve without treatment.
Q.7 How long is too long for a haemorrhoid to go away?
Most haemorrhoids resolve within a week or two. If symptoms persist beyond two weeks or are getting worse rather than better, it is time to see a doctor.
Q.8 What are the signs you need haemorrhoid removal?
Signs that you may need further treatment include haemorrhoids that do not respond to conservative management, recurring flare-ups, significant bleeding, severe pain, or a prolapsed haemorrhoid that cannot be pushed back in. A doctor can assess whether removal or a specialist referral is appropriate.
Q.9 What not to do with a haemorrhoid?
Avoid straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting on the toilet, using dry or rough toilet paper, and ignoring symptoms that are getting worse. Scratching the affected area and delaying treatment can also make symptoms significantly worse.
Q.10 What food to avoid for haemorrhoids?
Avoid foods that cause constipation or loose stools, including processed foods, white bread, red meat, spicy food, alcohol, and caffeine. A low-fibre diet is one of the most common contributors to haemorrhoid flare-ups.
Q.11 Is walking good for haemorrhoids?
Yes. Walking improves circulation and stimulates bowel movement, both of which can help reduce haemorrhoid symptoms.
Q.12 Are haemorrhoids cancer?
While haemorrhoids are not a sign of colorectal or anal cancer, some symptoms can overlap, so prompt medical assessment is important.
Q.13 Why do haemorrhoids itch? How do you stop the itch?
Haemorrhoids can itch due to irritation from mucus, moisture, or difficulty keeping the area clean. The itch can often be relieved with over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories designed for haemorrhoid symptoms. If the itching persists, haemorrhoid treatment may be recommended.
Q.14 Where can I get haemorrhoid treatment in Dublin city centre?
Nassau Clinic in Dublin offers confidential haemorrhoid assessment and treatment with no GP referral required. Book your haemorrhoid consultation today. Consultations are available Thursday evenings, Saturdays, and Sundays, with a consultation fee of €100.
Still have questions? If your symptoms persist, worsen, or you're unsure whether they're caused by haemorrhoids, book a haemorrhoid consultation at Nassau Clinic. No GP referral is required, and appointments are available Thursday evenings and weekends.
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