- Home
- > Top questions: FAQs
Piles FAQs
It's really too bad: one in two people in the UK suffers from piles at some stage, but most of us still find it an embarrassing subject to talk about.
So we've put together some common questions and answers about the problem, which should help clear things up.
What are piles?
Piles are simply swollen blood vessels in your back passage. They can be internal or external.
What causes them?
Piles are caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels in your bottom. This can be due to constipation, pregnancy and childbirth, lifting heavy loads and being overweight.
Do piles run in the family?
It hasn't been medically proven, but people do tend to be more susceptible to piles if their parents have them. This could be due to a poor family diet or our physical build.
How do I know if it's definitely piles?
The only way to be 100% sure is to visit your doctor. They'll need to know about your symptoms and may want to do a quick examination.
What's the best treatment to use?
It depends on your symptoms and your personal preference. There are various treatments available, including creams, ointments and suppositories. The ANUSOL® range offers all three and provides effective, soothing relief from discomfort and irritation. Always make sure you read the label & follow instructions carefully.
Can I use treatments if I'm pregnant?
ANUSOL® offer a range of suitable treatments; however, as with all medicines, you should always check with your doctor or midwife before using any medication while you're pregnant.
Should I go to my doctor if I think I've got piles?
If this is the first time you've developed piles, then yes, it's best to get a proper diagnosis from your doctor. That way you can make sure you're using the most appropriate and effective treatment from the start.
Will piles keep coming back?
It's hard to say, as piles are different for everyone. But there's plenty you can do to try and prevent them, involving a few simple changes to your diet and lifestyle.
Can you get piles from sitting on cold floors or hot radiators?
No! This is a myth. Sitting down for long periods of time can make piles worse, but it doesn't cause them. Developing piles has nothing to do with the temperature of what you're perched on.
Are men more susceptible to piles?
Piles can affect anyone. They're caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels in your bottom and there's no discrimination between the sexes.
I'm overweight – am I at a higher risk for piles?
Overweight people have a fairly high chance of getting piles due to the extra pressure their weight puts on their abdomen. But this pressure can also be the result of constipation, straining on the loo, pregnancy and lifting heavy weights.
Wondering where to buy?
Effective relief is as near as your closest pharmacy. But you can also buy ANUSOL® online.
