If it’s the first time you’ve had piles, be sure to get things checked out with your doctor before self-medicating. They will make a proper diagnosis to put your mind at ease, and recommend the best treatment for your particular symptoms. Don’t worry about feeling embarrassed – your doctor will have seen hundreds of similar case and may have even been there themselves!

If you need a medicine, simply pop into almost any pharmacy or major supermarket. Or buy your treatment online, if you prefer.

The full Anusol™ range provides effective soothing relief for piles. You can choose from Cream, Ointments and Suppositories, each containing an astringent, to help soothe the area and reduce swelling, an antiseptic to reduce the risk of infection, and an emollient to help protect sore skin. Or, our 4-way products, containing hydrocortisone, which reduces inflammation, too.

• Wash your bottom with unperfumed soap after each bowel movement.
• Gently pat the area with a soft dry towel afterwards.
• Wear loose, cotton underwear instead of synthetic fibres, to keep the area as dry as possible.
• Avoid using talcum powder.

In most cases, your symptoms will clear up within a week or two. And, by making a few small changes to your lifestyle , you can minimise the chance they’ll come back to the same degree, if at all.

With any medication, always make sure you read the label and follow the instructions carefully.