Haemorrhoid Ointment

Haemorrhoids, which are also known as piles, are small, itchy lumps that can form in and around your back passage (anus).

They’re usually harmless but can cause discomfort or pain when you go to the toilet and can be generally itchy and irritating throughout the day.

The cause of haemorrhoids isn’t currently known, but it’s thought that a build-up of pressure in your anus makes the blood vessels there swell, causing these little lumps to form.

This is why haemorrhoids are often linked to constipation, straining when you poo, or even heavy lifting, as they can all cause pressure in your back passage.

Haemorrhoids will usually clear up by themselves after a few days, but you could benefit from treatment if yours are particularly large, sore or last for more than a week.

You can treat or prevent piles by drinking lots of fluid and eating plenty of fibre, wiping your bottom with damp toilet paper, taking paracetamol to ease the pain and cutting down on alcohol and caffeine.

Germoloids and Anusol are both popular treatments for haemorrhoids, and the best one for you is down to what you need from your treatment.

One of the main differences between these treatments are the active ingredients, many Germoloids products contain lidocaine, a topical anaesthetic that can ease pain caused by piles.

On the other hand, Anusol products use ingredients like bismuth oxide, which works as a mild antiseptic.

If you’re not sure which one will be best for you, we recommend asking your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Although there aren’t any natural remedies for haemorrhoids, there are some things you can do to keep yourself from getting piles.

For starters, make sure you’re eating enough fibre so your poo will be easier to pass, and wipe your bottom gently with damp toilet paper after you poo to avoid further irritation.

Try not to push too hard when you poo, as this pressure can make your haemorrhoids worse.

If your piles are itchy, try taking a warm bath to ease your discomfort, or sit on an ice pack and take paracetamol if they’re causing you pain.

Do not take any painkillers that contain codeine to ease the pain caused by piles, as this can make constipation worse, which can make piles worse in turn.