Haemorrhoids: how to ease the discomfort at home and prevent them

Haemorrhoids are very common and, although they are hard to talk about, in many cases the discomfort improves with simple measures. Here is what you can do at home and which symptoms need a doctor's opinion.

Haemorrhoids are one of those problems almost no one talks about, yet a huge number of people experience them at some point in life. Itching, burning, pain when sitting down or a little blood on the toilet paper are common symptoms that tend to cause worry and a bit of embarrassment. The good news is that, in many cases, they improve with simple changes in habits and some care at home.

What haemorrhoids are

Everyone has haemorrhoids. They are cushions made up of blood vessels found in the anal canal that help control continence. When people talk about "having haemorrhoids", what they actually mean is that these structures have become swollen, enlarged or displaced, causing discomfort.

There are two main types:

• Internal: located inside the rectum. They usually do not hurt, but can bleed or come out during straining.
• External: located under the skin around the anus. They can cause itching, pain and a noticeable lump, especially if a clot forms inside them.

Common symptoms

• Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
• Itching or burning around the anus.
• Pain or discomfort when sitting or going to the toilet.
• A feeling of a lump or of not having fully emptied the bowel.
• Small mucus marks on underwear.

Why they appear

The common factor is increased pressure in the area. The most frequent causes are:

• Constipation and straining a lot to pass stool.
• Spending a long time sitting on the toilet, something increasingly common because of phone use.
• Frequent diarrhoea.
• Pregnancy and the postpartum period.
• Lifting heavy weights often.
• Being overweight and a sedentary lifestyle.
• A diet low in fibre.

How to ease the discomfort at home

Warm sitz baths

Sitting in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes, several times a day and especially after going to the toilet, helps relax the area and eases itching and pain. You can do this in the bathtub or with a basin fitted to the toilet. There is no need to add salts or soap.

Gentle hygiene

• Wash the area with water after a bowel movement rather than wiping with dry paper.
• Pat dry gently with a clean towel or soft paper.
• Avoid harsh soaps or perfumed or alcohol-based wipes, which can irritate the skin.
• Wear cotton underwear that is not too tight.

Local cold

Applying cold, always wrapped in a cloth and never directly on the skin, for a few minutes can reduce inflammation and pain from external haemorrhoids.

Avoid scratching

Scratching feels good for a moment but irritates the skin and can make the itching worse. Keeping the area clean and dry helps break that cycle.

Pharmacy products

There are creams, ointments, specific wipes and suppositories that can relieve itching and discomfort. Some contain local anaesthetics or corticosteroids, which should not be used for long periods without guidance. Ask your pharmacist which is most suitable and for how long to use it, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Painkillers

If the pain is bothersome, a common over-the-counter painkiller can help for a few days. Check with your pharmacist first if you take other medication or have a health condition, and keep in mind that some painkillers, such as opioids, can make constipation worse.

When sitting down

If you spend many hours sitting, get up every so often. A soft cushion can make everyday life more comfortable while the discomfort lasts.

How to prevent them

Prevention is mainly about achieving soft stools and avoiding straining:

• Increase fibre gradually. Fruit, vegetables, legumes, whole grains and nuts. A sudden increase can cause gas and bloating, so add it in progressively.
• Drink enough water. Fibre needs fluid to do its job.
• Get moving. Walking and regular exercise support bowel movement.
• Do not hold it in. Go to the toilet when you need to and avoid straining if there is no urge.
• Do not linger on the toilet. Leave your phone outside and do not spend more time there than necessary.
• Try raising your feet. Resting your feet on a low stool while sitting on the toilet brings your posture closer to a squat, which makes bowel movements easier for many people.

When to see a doctor

Although haemorrhoids are the most common cause of a little anal bleeding, they are not the only one. That is why it is important not to self-diagnose and to see a doctor in these situations:

• The first time you notice blood when passing stool.
• If the blood is dark, mixed in with the stool, or the stool is black.
• If you are over 50 or have a family history of colon cancer.
• If you have noticed changes in your bowel habits lasting several weeks.
• If there is unexplained weight loss, tiredness or dizziness.
• If sudden, severe pain appears with a hard, bluish lump.
• If the discomfort does not improve within a week with home care.
• If the bleeding is heavy: in that case go to the emergency department.

A doctor can confirm the diagnosis with a simple examination and, if necessary, suggest other treatments. There are now minimally invasive procedures for cases that do not improve with conservative measures.

Talking about it helps

Haemorrhoids are very common and there is nothing to be embarrassed about. Seeing a doctor promptly avoids many weeks of discomfort and rules out other problems. In the meantime, fibre, water, movement and gentle hygiene are your best allies.

In our haemorrhoids category you will find products designed to care for the area. If you have any doubts about which one to choose or whether you can use it, check with your pharmacist.