Time to put an end to piles and their symptoms.
For many having suffered from the symptoms of piles for a prolonged time, it can be hard to know when to stop putting up with the symptoms and get help. If your HSS score is above 7, you could be needlessly suffering. We have pulled together more information on understanding your symptoms and when to take action.
How do I know if my symptoms are “bad enough” to get treated?
Firstly, symptoms and their severity and frequency vary from person to person and can change with each flare-up, so there is no right or wrong time to get treated. If your symptoms are having an impact on you getting on with your day – be that practical – like not being able to leave the house, or emotionally – not being able to focus and feeling anxious about going to the toilet every day, then it is probably the right time to reach out. Below is some helpful advice on understanding your symptoms better and how you can get help.
What are the main symptoms of piles?
Itching in and around the anal canal.
Bleeding – this is typically fresh blood on the tissue or in the bowl after going to the toilet
Pain – this can be sore throbbing or a sharper pain
Lumps and swelling – sometimes piles can temporarily or permanently protrude (become thrombosed) from the anal canal and can feel like soft lumps. These can sometimes go back in by themselves or may need manual manipulation.
Pressure – you may feel the need to go to the toilet, even if you have just been.
Discharge - Symptoms of internal piles and external piles can include a damp feeling in your underwear caused by discharge.
Smell - A funny smell is a rare, but not unusual symptom of piles. And like most of the other signs can be treated in a number of ways
Read more about understanding your symptoms here: The signs of haemorrhoids
What else could my symptoms be?
The symptoms of piles are easily confused with other conditions and therefore, it is essential to seek medical advice if you are experiencing any of them, as most can be easily treated and resolved quickly. Some of the most common conditions we encounter when seeing patients are:
Anal fissure:
This is a tear or open sore that develops at the anus and often causes a sharp pain and bleeding when going to the toilet. You can also experience a burning sensation for a period of time after going to the toilet.
Polyps:
These are small growths on the colon or rectum and are very common. You may have only 1 or indeed many. For most people, these do not cause symptoms and will go un-noticed until an examination by a specialist. More rarely they may cause small amounts of discharge, or bleeding when you poo.
Anal Fistula:
An anal fistula is a small tunnel that develops between the end of the bowel and the skin near the anus and are usually the result of an infection near the anus causing a collection of pus (abscess) in the nearby tissue. When the pus drains away, it can leave a small channel behind. Symptoms often confused with piles are a throbbing pain, discharge or blood when you poo.
Anal warts:
Anal warts are small warts that can occur inside and around the anus and can appear as few as one or can be many. The condition is also called condyloma acuminata. Anal warts are a form of genital warts and in most cases, the warts don't cause pain, however occasionally for some they may cause itching and discomfort.
Cancer:
Anal and Bowel Cancer are of course less common than piles and have some distinctive characteristics and symptoms (see symptoms of bowel cancer), however, they can also share some similar symptoms with haemorrhoids, these include bleeding and pain. If you are at all concerned and want more information about being screened for cancer, get in contact with your GP. You can also visit the NHS website for more information about getting regular screening, if appropriate.
Read more about understanding your symptoms here: The signs of haemorrhoids
See how eXroid could relieve your symptoms: eXroid electrotherapy treatment.
If you are at all concerned about any of your symptoms, seek medical advice or see your GP. You can also give us a call to discuss and seek further advice on 0800 999 3777.