Haemorrhoids: symptoms and treatment options
Anal itching, swelling or bleeding is nothing to be ashamed of. Learn why bleeding needs assessment, what daily care involves and how treatment is chosen.
Not all bleeding is from haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids involve swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus. Itching, a lump, discomfort during bowel movements and bright red blood can occur. However, anal bleeding may also come from a fissure, bowel disease or other causes; a previous haemorrhoid diagnosis does not establish the cause of new bleeding.
How is assessment planned?
You will be asked about bleeding duration, pain, bowel habits and medicines. Examination and, when needed, further investigations help distinguish the cause; not everyone needs the same test. Share privacy needs and concerns at the start and ask for each step to be explained.
For daily comfort
- Plan fibre-rich foods and a suitable fluid intake to help keep stools soft. Stay within prescribed limits if heart or kidney disease requires fluid restriction.
- Do not delay the urge to pass stool; avoid straining and spending longer than needed on the toilet.
- Gentle cleaning and a warm sitz bath may ease discomfort. Ask about suitability and duration before choosing a cream or constipation medicine.
Is a procedure or surgery needed?
Treatment depends on symptoms, examination and response to earlier care. Banding, injections or other procedures may suit some people; surgery may be considered in others. These are performed by healthcare professionals, never at home. Discuss pain, bleeding, recovery and recurrence; no method suits everyone or is risk-free.
What to do about bleeding or severe pain
Continuous or heavy bleeding, large clots or severe pain require emergency assessment; call 112 for heavy bleeding, fainting or marked weakness. Seek prompt advice about fever, pus or new anal bleeding. Tell the team if you take blood thinners, but do not stop them yourself; also seek advice about pain relief when bleeding.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
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