Haemorrhoids (piles)

Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are enlarged and swollen blood vessels in or around the lower rectum and anus. Solid waste material (faeces or stools) is stored in the rectum before being passed out of the body through the anus.

Haemorrhoids can cause:

• bleeding when passing stools
• an itchy feeling around the anus
• pain

Blood vessels are a normal part of the anal canal (the last section of the bowel) and, along with other tissues in this area, help to keep the anus closed. However, the blood vessels can become swollen, often as a result of straining to pass a stool.

Types of haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids vary in size and can occur internally (inside the anus) or externally (outside the anus). Internal haemorrhoids develop 2-4cm above the opening of the anus. External haemorrhoids (perianal haematoma) are less common and develop on the outside edge of the anus.

How common are haemorrhoids?

Estimates for how common haemorrhoids are vary, as often any symptoms to do with the anus, such as bleeding, are thought to be haemorrhoids, when it could be another condition. In the UK, it is estimated that between 4% and 25% of the population is affected by haemorrhoids.

Anyone at any age can be affected by haemorrhoids. However, they are usually more common during pregnancy and in people between 45 and 65 years of age.

Outlook

Haemorrhoids are not usually very serious and can be successfully treated with over-the-counter medicines and a high-fibre diet. In more severe cases, a number of surgical procedures can be used to treat or remove the haemorrhoids. Around 1 in 10 people with haemorrhoids may need surgery. 

Glossary

Anus

The anus is the opening at the end of the digestive system where solid waste leaves the body.

Blood vessels

Blood vessels are the tubes in which blood travels to and from parts of the body. The three main types of blood vessels are veins, arteries and capillaries.

Haematoma

Haematoma is a collection of blood in the tissues from a leaking blood vessel, which causes bruising.

Pain

Pain is an unpleasant physical or emotional feeling that your body produces as a warning sign that it has been damaged.

Stools

Stool (also known as faeces) is the solid waste matter that is passed from the body as a bowel movement.