Itchy haemorrhoids: potential causes and treatments

If you’ve ever had haemorrhoids, you’ll know just how itchy and uncomfortable they can be.

Otherwise known as piles, haemorrhoids are swollen lumps or swellings containing enlarged blood vessels that can develop in and around your bottom. One of the most common signs is bright red blood – either in the toilet bowl after you poo, or on the toilet paper when wiping.

While that can be alarming, there’s no need to worry – haemorrhoids often clear up on their own within a few days. There’s also a wide range of treatments available to help ease your symptoms.

Itching is one of the most frustrating symptoms of haemorrhoids – and it can really interfere with day-to-day life. That’s why we’re taking a closer look at what causes the itch and, most importantly, what you can do to soothe it and feel more comfortable.

Why are my haemorrhoids itchy?

Haemorrhoids can bring a variety of symptoms – from pain and bleeding to swelling and discomfort. But one of the most common (and most frustrating) symptoms is itching.

Itching around the anus (also known as anal itching or pruritus ani) may occur for several reasons when you have haemorrhoids. To understand why, it helps to take a closer look at what haemorrhoids actually are.

Haemorrhoids are swellings that contain enlarged blood vessels. They can develop internally (inside the rectum), or externally (under the skin around the anus) – with each bringing its own set of unique symptoms.

Internal haemorrhoids can sometimes leak mucus, which may irritate the skin around your bottom and make it feel itchy. External haemorrhoids, on the other hand, tend to cause localised pain, swelling and – you guessed it – persistent itchiness that can be particularly uncomfortable.

What else might cause an itchy anus?

While haemorrhoids are a common cause of itching around the anus, they’re not the only possible reason. Several other conditions can cause similar irritation or discomfort.

A good way to pinpoint the most likely cause of an itchy bottom is to look for any other symptoms you might be experiencing. For example:

• Small threads in your poo and itchiness that gets worse at night could be a sign of a threadworm infection
• Sores, swelling or irritation might indicate a fungal infection or a sexually transmitted infection (STI)
• Itching in other areas of the body could be linked to skin conditions like eczema or psoriasis
• Loss of control over when you poo could be a sign of diarrhoea or bowel incontinence

These symptoms may be helpful to note, but it’s important to remember that only a qualified healthcare professional can diagnose the actual underlying cause. In some cases, you may experience an itchy bottom without an obvious reason.

If that happens, or if you’re concerned about your symptoms, it’s important to speak to a doctor or pharmacist. They can help identify the underlying cause and recommend a treatment plan to make any itchiness more manageable.

How to treat itchy piles

If you have haemorrhoids and are experiencing itchiness, we have good news – there are a variety of treatments available to help ease your symptoms.

When you visit your local pharmacist, they could recommend creams, ointments or suppositories (medicines inserted into your bottom) to help reduce discomfort.

The Germoloids® range of treatments is designed to provide fast, numbing relief for haemorrhoid symptoms. These over-the-counter products contain a local anaesthetic to help relieve itching, as well as other symptoms like pain, swelling and irritation.

However, the right treatment for you will depend on the exact symptoms you’re experiencing. That’s why it’s always a good idea to consult a doctor or pharmacist for tailored advice.

Management techniques for itchy piles

Dealing with itchy haemorrhoids can be an uncomfortable experience. But is there anything you can do to prevent them from forming in the first place?

While it’s not fully clear what causes haemorrhoids, factors like constipation, straining when pooing, a low-fibre diet, ageing and pregnancy* have all been shown to increase your risk of developing them.

Here are some simple lifestyle changes you can incorporate into your day-to-day routine to help lower your risk and prevent haemorrhoids from getting worse:

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, fruit juices and clear soups
• Eat foods that are rich in fibre, including grains, fruits, vegetables and beans
• Limit low-fibre foods, such as cakes, biscuits, ice cream, crisps, chips, fast foods and white bread
• Exercise regularly
• Consider taking a fibre supplement if a high fibre diet is not providing sufficient help with constipation
• Cut down on alcohol and caffeinated drinks (like tea, coffee and cola)
• Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear
• Avoid overheating by wearing breathable clothing and using cool bedding
• Avoid scented soaps or bath oils
• Steer clear of perfumes or powders near your anus

If you already have haemorrhoids, making a few adjustments to your toilet habits and personal care routine can help ease symptoms and prevent further irritation.

Here are some helpful tips:

• Avoid wiping your bottom too much or too hard after you poo
• Don’t ignore the urge to go – delaying can lead to straining
• Try not to push too hard while on the toilet
• Keep your bottom clean and dry
• Soak in warm baths to soothe itching and ease pain
• Wipe your bottom using damp toilet paper (not wet wipes)

When should I contact a doctor?

In many cases, haemorrhoids clear up on their own within a few days, but there are several treatments available to help minimise your symptoms if needed.

However, if you find that your symptoms haven’t improved after a week of treatment – or they’re getting worse – it’s a good idea to make an appointment with your doctor.

You should also visit your doctor if your piles keep coming back, you notice any unusual changes around your anus, or you simply want some extra reassurance.

After taking a detailed look at your medical history and symptoms, your doctor can help identify the cause and may prescribe a different treatment if needed.

Itchy haemorrhoids can be annoying and uncomfortable, but the good news is that there are plenty of ways to ease them when they appear – from simple changes to your hygiene routine to using treatments like Germoloids®. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to speak to your doctor or pharmacist for tailored advice.