Haemorrhoids (Piles) Service

Haemorrhoids (piles) are swollen veins in the rectum or anus that can cause pain, irritation, itching (pruritus ani), or bleeding. They are common, often uncomfortable, and can flare up at any age.

At Balance Pharmacy, we provide a private haemorrhoids service offering short-term relief for these symptoms. Following a consultation, our trained pharmacists may be able to supply Proctosedyl ointment or suppositories to help ease discomfort

WHO IT’S FOR

Who Can Use the Service?

Our pharmacists will assess you and confirm if the service is right for you.

Inclusion Criteria

  • Adults 16 years and over with pain, irritation, or itching caused by haemorrhoids or pruritus ani

  • Patients requiring short-term relief (for up to 7 days)

Exclusion Criteria

  • Under 16 years (will be referred to a GP)

  • Unable or unwilling to give consent

  • If itching might be due to other conditions such as threadworms or scabies

  • Allergy to cinchocaine, hydrocortisone, lanolin, or other ingredients in Proctosedyl

  • Signs of infection present

  • Symptoms suggesting more serious disease (systemic illness, severe bleeding, acute pain, or persistent problems)

If you fall into the exclusion group, we’ll refer you to your GP for further investigation.

WHO IT’S FOR

Who Can Use the Service?

Our pharmacists will assess you and confirm if the service is right for you.

Inclusion Criteria

  • Adults 16 years and over with pain, irritation, or itching caused by haemorrhoids or pruritus ani

  • Patients requiring short-term relief (for up to 7 days)

Exclusion Criteria

  • Under 16 years (will be referred to a GP)

  • Unable or unwilling to give consent

  • If itching might be due to other conditions such as threadworms or scabies

  • Allergy to cinchocaine, hydrocortisone, lanolin, or other ingredients in Proctosedyl

  • Signs of infection present

  • Symptoms suggesting more serious disease (systemic illness, severe bleeding, acute pain, or persistent problems)

If you fall into the exclusion group, we’ll refer you to your GP for further investigation.

The Treatment We Can Provide

If suitable, our pharmacists can supply:

Proctosedyl Ointment

(cinchocaine hydrochloride 0.5% w/w and hydrocortisone 0.5% w/w)

Apply morning and evening and after each bowel movement for up to 7 days, or as directed.

Proctosedyl Suppositories

(cinchocaine hydrochloride 0.5% w/w and hydrocortisone 0.5% w/w)

Typically applied or inserted twice daily (morning and evening) and after each bowel movement. Always follow the directions on the patient information leaflet.

These are prescription-only medicines (POMs) supplied under our pharmacy service after a consultation.

The Treatment We Can Provide

If suitable, our pharmacists can supply:

Proctosedyl Ointment

(cinchocaine hydrochloride 0.5% w/w and hydrocortisone 0.5% w/w)

Apply morning and evening and after each bowel movement for up to 7 days, or as directed.

Proctosedyl Suppositories

(cinchocaine hydrochloride 0.5% w/w and hydrocortisone 0.5% w/w)

Typically applied or inserted twice daily (morning and evening) and after each bowel movement. Always follow the directions on the patient information leaflet.

These are prescription-only medicines (POMs) supplied under our pharmacy service after a consultation.

Important Safety Information

Pregnancy and breastfeeding:

Proctosedyl should generally be avoided unless benefits outweigh risks — if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, the pharmacist will discuss alternatives or refer you.

Drug interactions:

Some medicines (such as erythromycin, diltiazem, or certain antifungals) may increase risks when combined with topical steroids.

Visual disturbance

If you develop blurred vision or eye problems while using corticosteroids, seek medical advice promptly.

Treatment Duration

This treatment is for short-term use (no longer than 7 days). Longer use may increase the risk of side effects.

Self-Care and Prevention Advice

Alongside treatment, our pharmacists will advise you on ways to reduce flare-ups and prevent recurrence, including:

  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fibre diet

  • Take warm baths to ease pain and itching

  • Use a cold compress/ice pack wrapped in a towel for swelling

  • Gently push a pile back inside the anus if protruding

  • Keep the anal area clean and dry

  • Exercise regularly

  • Reduce alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to constipation

Self-Care and Prevention Advice

Alongside treatment, our pharmacists will advise you on ways to reduce flare-ups and prevent recurrence, including:

  • Drink plenty of fluids and eat a high-fibre diet

  • Take warm baths to ease pain and itching

  • Use a cold compress/ice pack wrapped in a towel for swelling

  • Gently push a pile back inside the anus if protruding

  • Keep the anal area clean and dry

  • Exercise regularly

  • Reduce alcohol and caffeine, which can contribute to constipation

FAQs – Haemorrhoids Service

No longer than 7 days. If symptoms persist, stop treatment and see your GP.

Heavy or persistent bleeding is a red flag. You should see your GP urgently.

Topical steroids should be avoided in pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. We will usually refer you to your GP.

No. Proctosedyl provides symptom relief but does not remove haemorrhoids. Lifestyle measures are important for prevention.

Yes, all consultations are private. We only share information with your GP if clinically necessary and with your consent.

Book a Consultation Today

If you’re experiencing the discomfort of haemorrhoids, our private service can help. Appointments are quick and discreet, and treatment may be supplied on the same day.

Book online now or call us on 01889 562063 to speak with a member of our pharmacy team.