Understanding and Managing Haemorrhoids (Piles): Support from Gilbride Pharmacy.

Welcome to Gilbride Pharmacy, your trusted source for valuable health information. On this page, we'll shed light on haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, providing insights into their causes, symptoms, and effective management strategies. We'll also share tips on how to prevent these uncomfortable conditions.

What are Haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged blood vessels located around the anus and rectum, often forming a protruding lump. While they frequently resolve on their own and may cause mild, painless symptoms, some individuals experience discomfort, itching, or soreness around the anus. If over-the-counter treatments don't provide relief, or if you notice bleeding or pain after passing stool, it's important to consult your GP.

Causes

The precise cause of haemorrhoids isn't always clear, but they are linked to increased pressure in the blood vessels around the anus. Factors that can elevate your risk include:

• Pregnancy
• A family history of piles
• Being overweight
• Being over 45 years of age
• Regular heavy lifting
• Extended periods of sitting
• Prolonged diarrhoea
• Persistent cough
• Repeated vomiting

Types and Severity

Haemorrhoids are classified into two main types: internal and external. Internal haemorrhoids are located inside the anus, above an area called the dentate line. External haemorrhoids develop below this line, where nerves are sensitive to pain.

The severity of haemorrhoids is also categorised:

• First-degree: Small and not visible outside the anus.
• Second-degree: Larger, may protrude during bowel movements but retract on their own.
• Third-degree: One or more soft lumps hanging from the anus that can be pushed back inside.
• Fourth-degree: Larger and cannot be pushed back inside.

Recognising the Symptoms

Many individuals with haemorrhoids experience no symptoms, especially if they are not painful. However, more severe haemorrhoids may result in:

• Itchiness, soreness, or redness around the anus
• A visible lump outside the anus
• Mucus or blood discharge after passing stool

When to Seek Medical Advice: If your symptoms persist or worsen despite using over-the-counter treatments, or if you experience any rectal bleeding, please seek medical advice from your GP.

Managing Haemorrhoids: Support from Gilbride Pharmacy

At Gilbride Pharmacy, we can help you manage the symptoms of haemorrhoids.

• Lifestyle Changes: For mild cases, adopting a healthy lifestyle is often effective. Increasing dietary fibre, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular exercise can help prevent constipation and straining.

• Over-the-Counter Treatments: Our pharmacists can recommend and supply a range of topical treatments such as ointments, creams, sprays, and suppositories (e.g., Anusol, Germoloids, Preparation H) to soothe irritation and provide relief. Some standard over-the-counter treatments may even be available free of charge through the Pharmacy First service following a consultation.

• Constipation Relief: If constipation is contributing to your haemorrhoids, we can advise on and provide suitable laxatives to help relieve straining.

• Prescription-Strength Treatments (Private Service): For cases where over-the-counter treatments are not sufficient, we can also provide prescription-strength Proctosedyl suppositories and ointment privately. These contain cinchocaine hydrochloride (a local anaesthetic) and hydrocortisone (a corticosteroid) to reduce inflammation and ease pain. Cinchocaine hydrochloride ointment and suppositories may be used separately or concurrently.

  How to use Proctosedyl Ointment:

  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • For topical use only.
  • Gently wash the anal area with water and pat dry with cotton wool.
  • Apply a small quantity of ointment to the painful area with your finger without rubbing.
  • For deep application, attach the provided cannula to the tube, insert it fully, and gently squeeze the tube from the lower end while withdrawing. Clean the cannula thoroughly in warm, soapy water before and after each use.

  How to use Proctosedyl Suppositories:

  • Wash hands before and after use.
  • Remove the plastic protective shell.
  • Insert one suppository into the anus.

  Frequency of Administration (Ointment & Suppositories): Medication should be used on the morning and evening, and after each bowel movement.

Preventing Haemorrhoids

Preventing haemorrhoids is often achievable through simple lifestyle adjustments:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids and limit alcohol and caffeine.
• Fibre-Rich Diet: Incorporate plenty of fibre into your diet.
• Regular Exercise: Engage in regular light physical activity.
• Respond Promptly: Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge.
• Avoid Prolonged Sitting: Don't spend excessive time on the toilet.
• Gentle Cleaning: Use damp toilet paper or a moist wipe for gentle cleaning after bowel movements.

Visit Gilbride Pharmacy for Advice and Support

For personalised advice and support in managing haemorrhoids, please visit your preferred Gilbride Pharmacy branch in Glasgow. You are welcome to inquire about our services or simply walk in at your convenience. We are committed to safeguarding your health and well-being.