How to manage haemorrhoid symptoms and reduce flare-ups

For many, symptoms and flare-ups may only ever be mild and infrequent and in these cases can often be managed with some changes in our lifestyle and diet along with some over the counter remedies for reducing the impact of the symptoms on our daily lives. We have pulled together our top tips for surviving a flare-up as well as reducing their frequency.

Here are our top tips to reduce and avoid frequent flare-ups:

1.    Hydration.

This cannot be emphasised enough; staying hydrated will enable your body to produce softer stools, that are easier to pass and cause less irritation when going to the toilet, thus being less likely to aggravate the piles and cause an increase in symptoms (or flare-up)

2.   Increased fibre intake:

The more fibre we have in our diet, the less likely we are to become constipated, again decreasing the risk of aggravating the piles. Food sources rich in fibre are: wholegrain breakfast cereals, wholewheat pasta, wholegrain bread and oats, bran, barley and rye. Fruits such as berries, pears, apples, melons and oranges, not forgetting dried fruits such as figs, dates and prunes. Vegetables such as broccoli, kale, avocados, artichokes, carrots and sweetcorn. Peas, beans and pulses. Nuts and seeds (especially chia seeds). Potatoes with the skin left on. And, if you like snacks, popcorn is considered the “king of snacks”, especially where fibre is concerned.

3.   Regular exercise:

Staying healthy is key to helping our bodies continue to function efficiently and having a healthier lifestyle and remaining active can help the digestive system function efficiently and ensure we don’t become constipated. This needn’t mean going to the gym, but by making positive steps in improving health a little at a time which will be more sustainable and create permanent changes, so try regular walks, cycling, swimming or just running around with the children or grandchildren. Anything to get the pulse raised slightly every day.

Regular gym goer? Read our advice on avoiding over-straining and avoiding piles

4.   Listen to your body:

If you feel the urge to go to the toilet, it is important to listen and go straight away, rather than delaying or putting off, as this can lead to constipation and aggravation of the piles with the stools sitting in your bowel. On the other hand, don’t go when you are not “ready” as this will usually lead to straining, which you should avoid whenever possible!

Having a flare-up? Here are some ways to soothe your symptoms:

1.   Go to your pharmacy

Don’t be embarrassed to ask for advice – there are so many sufferers out there – nearly 5m in the last year alone. If you feel you need help choosing the right remedy, don’t be afraid to speak to your pharmacist. There are many over the counter remedies available – creams, ointments, suppositories etc and each have different active ingredients to help with itching and pain. If you’re not ready to ask for help – many remedies are in the main healthcare aisle.

2.   Use a sitz bath:

Not commonly known, but effective and convenient for at-home symptom relief – a sitz bath is a small basin that sits under your toilet seat and is used to soak the inflamed and sore area in warm water for 10-15 minutes. This can be done as often as you feel the need and is usually recommended to be done about 2-3 times per day.

You are not alone – let’s break the taboo.

Despite piles being a very common condition, there is little discussed on the matter, with many people suffering in silence. Sharing your experience with someone you trust – a family member or friend, your family GP – can be a relief for many and can help reassure you that this can affect us all. Our friendly advisors are also available if you need advice or simply want to talk to someone about your symptoms.

Why not give us a call on: 0800 999 3777

Still worried about your symptoms, or feel like you’ve tried everything?

Perhaps it is now time to start considering further action and your treatment options. There are many ways you can seek help – read our helpful guide here: Time to start considering your treatment options?