Piles (haemorrhoids) are usually mild and, in most cases, the symptoms will go away naturally within a few days. Most people may not even realise they have haemorrhoids as they do not experience any symptoms.
The symptoms of haemorrhoids include:
- itchiness around your anus (the opening at the end of the digestive system where solid waste leaves the body)
- discomfort around your anus, such as feeling sore or it being visibly red
- excessive straining when passing a stool
- bleeding after you have passed a stool (this will be bright red blood)
- discharge of mucus present after passing a stool
- pain while passing a stool
- feeling like your bowels are still full and need emptying
You may also get a hard lump around your anus. This lump is made up of blood clots forming in a small area (known as a thrombosed external haemorrhoid) and can become very painful.
Contact your GP if you experience pain or discomfort as a result of haemorrhoids. It is also best to contact your GP if you have blood or mucus in your stools, as this can be a sign of another health condition.
Types of haemorrhoids
Haemorrhoids can be:
- internal haemorrhoids
- external haemorrhoids
These are explained in more detail below.
Internal haemorrhoids
Internal haemorrhoids are classified using a grading system from one to four.
- Grade one haemorrhoids are small swellings often inside the lining of your anus. They cannot be seen and are very common. In some cases, they will enlarge to grade two.
- Grade two haemorrhoids are larger in size but are still within your anus. Sometimes they become pushed out when you pass a stool, but will return inside immediately after.
- Grade three haemorrhoids appear outside your anus. You may be able to feel one or more small lumps hanging out. They are also referred to as prolapsed haemorrhoids. You will usually be able to push them back inside using your finger.
- Grade four haemorrhoids can become quite large and remain outside your anus permanently. They cannot be pushed back inside and will need to be treated by your GP.
External haemorrhoids
External haemorrhoids, also known as perianal haematoma, are small lumps that develop on the outside edge of the anus. They can become increasingly itchy. If a blood clot forms inside them (thrombosed external haemorrhoid), it can cause a lot of pain, requiring immediate treatment. This type of haemorrhoid is less common.
