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Haemorrhoids (Piles)

Haemorrhoids (also called piles) are soft, sponge-like cushions of tissue just inside the bottom (anus).

About Symptoms Treatment Find A Specialist

Everyone has Haemorrhoids - they are a normal part of the body and help ease bowel movements out and also keep the anus sealed.

The problem comes when the haemorrhoids get swollen. This can happen when there’s too much pressure, for example when you strain during a bowel movement, or during pregnancy and childbirth.

Haemorrhoids can lead to a variety of symptoms, ranging from mild discomfort or bleeding to significant pain or a lot of bleeding.

You should get a medical checkup if you have bleeding or pain from the anus.

Common Haemorrhoid Symptoms Include:

Itching
Difficulty with hygiene
Bleeding
Pain

Haemorrhoid Treatment

It is most important to ensure your “haemorrhoid” symptoms are actually due to haemorrhoids and not something more serious. It may be possible to determine this with an examination in the clinic room, or further investigation, for example with a colonoscopy, may be recommended.

Intus colorectal surgeons are experienced in the management of haemorrhoids and can work with you to confirm the diagnosis and find the best treatment option. 

Minor haemorrhoid

Minor haemorrhoid symptoms do not need treatment. A good fluid and fibre intake, along with careful hygiene can be enough to settle a lot of minor haemorrhoid symptoms.  

Steroid ointments

Steroid ointments can help settle inflammation from haemorrhoids, but should not be used for more than 2-3 weeks. 

Band ligation

Most haemorrhoids can be managed by simple treatment such as band ligation or injection therapy.

Surgery

Larger haemorrhoids may be best treated by surgery to remove them.  

Find A Specialist

View All Staff

  • Dr Richard Perry

    General & Colorectal Surgeon

  • Dr Ian Bradford

    General & Colorectal Surgeon

  • Dr Deborah Wright

    General & Colorectal Surgeon

  • A/Prof Craig Lynch

    General & Colorectal Surgeon

  • Dr James Haddow

    General & Colorectal Surgeon

  • Dr Nigel S. Rajaretnam

    Upper GI & Endocrine Surgeons

  • Dr James Wilkins

    Oesophago-gastric Surgeon