Haemorrhoids | Symptoms & Causes

Haemorrhoids | Symptom and Causes

This article has been written and medically approved by Pharmacist Conor McSorley GPhC Reg No. 2223070

Piles, or haemorrhoids, are caused by the enlargement of blood vessels around or inside the bottom. Generally, people won’t even realise they have them as in most cases they do not cause symptoms, however, they can result in:

  • Bright red blood in the stool
  • Itching of the area around the bottom
  • A lump hanging down outside of the bottom
  • Mucus being discharged after each motion
  • Soreness, redness or swelling around the bottom

If you suffer from persistent or severe symptoms, or have any rectal bleeding, you should speak to your GP.

The cause of haemorrhoids is unclear, yet they are associated with increased pressure of the blood vessels in and around your anus, which causes inflammation and swelling. These factors can be exacerbated due to:

  • Obesity
  • Age
  • Pregnancy
  • Family history of haemorrhoids
  • Regularly lifting heavy objects
  • Persistent cough or repeated vomiting
  • Sitting down for long periods of time