Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment
WeCovr explains treatment options for haemorrhoids and how private cover supports access
As an FCA-authorised expert that has helped arrange over 900,000 policies, WeCovr understands that dealing with haemorrhoids can be uncomfortable and distressing. This guide explores treatment options available in the UK, explaining how private medical insurance can provide rapid access to care for this common, yet often disruptive, condition.
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, affect a significant number of adults in the UK at some point in their lives. While many cases resolve with simple home care, others require medical intervention. Understanding your choices, from NHS pathways to the benefits of private health cover, is the first step towards finding relief and getting back to your life.
What Exactly Are Haemorrhoids (Piles)?
In simple terms, haemorrhoids are soft, fleshy lumps that form just inside or around your back passage (anus). They are essentially swollen blood vessels, similar to varicose veins, that can develop for a number of reasons. While they can be painful and worrying, they are very common and, in most cases, not a sign of anything more serious.
There are two main types of haemorrhoids, classified by their location:
- Internal Haemorrhoids: These form inside the anal canal, usually more than 2-3cm from the edge of the anus. They are often painless because this area has fewer pain-sensing nerves. The most common sign is bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement.
- External Haemorrhoids: These develop under the skin around the anus. Because this area is rich in nerves, they can be itchy and painful, especially if a blood clot forms inside (a thrombosed haemorrhoid).
For a clearer picture, here’s a simple comparison:
| Feature | Internal Haemorrhoids | External Haemorrhoids |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Inside the anal canal | Under the skin around the anus |
| Pain | Usually painless | Can be itchy and painful |
| Main Symptom | Painless bleeding | A painful lump, swelling, or irritation |
| Visibility | Not visible unless they prolapse (push out) | Visible as a lump or swelling |
Doctors also grade internal haemorrhoids on a scale of 1 to 4 to describe their severity:
- Grade 1: Small swellings on the inside lining of the anal canal. They cannot be seen or felt from the outside.
- Grade 2: Larger than Grade 1. They may be pushed out during a bowel movement but return inside on their own afterwards.
- Grade 3: These prolapse (come out of the anus) during a bowel movement and need to be gently pushed back in.
- Grade 4: These are permanently prolapsed and cannot be pushed back inside. They can be very painful and may require more intensive treatment.
Common Symptoms and Causes of Haemorrhoids
Recognising the signs of haemorrhoids is key to seeking timely advice and treatment. While symptoms can vary, some are more common than others.
Key Symptoms to Watch For
- Bleeding: Bright red blood after passing a stool is the most frequent symptom. It's important to never assume bleeding is 'just piles' and always get it checked by a GP to rule out other causes.
- Itching and Irritation: An itchy or sore feeling around your anus.
- Lumps: A noticeable lump hanging down or felt outside the anus, which may need to be pushed back in after a bowel movement.
- Pain or Discomfort: Usually associated with external or Grade 4 internal haemorrhoids.
- Mucus Discharge: A slimy discharge of mucus after passing a stool.
- A Feeling of Fullness: A sense that your bowels haven't been fully emptied.
What Puts You at Risk?
Haemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels in and around your anus. Several factors can contribute to this pressure:
- Straining on the Toilet: This is the leading cause. Pushing too hard during bowel movements puts immense strain on the veins.
- Chronic Constipation or Diarrhoea: Both conditions can lead to straining and prolonged time spent on the toilet.
- A Low-Fibre Diet: Lack of fibre makes stools harder and more difficult to pass, leading to constipation.
- Pregnancy: The pressure of the baby, along with hormonal changes that relax blood vessels, makes haemorrhoids very common during and after pregnancy.
- Ageing: The supportive tissues in the rectum and anus can weaken with age, making haemorrhoids more likely.
- Persistent Heavy Lifting: Regularly lifting heavy objects can increase abdominal pressure.
- Being Overweight: Excess body weight can place additional pressure on the pelvic veins.
Simple Steps for Prevention and At-Home Management
The good news is that for many people, simple lifestyle and dietary changes can prevent haemorrhoids from developing or help mild symptoms clear up on their own within a few days.
1. Boost Your Fibre and Fluid Intake
A high-fibre diet is the cornerstone of prevention. Fibre softens your stools and makes them easier to pass, reducing the need to strain.
- Aim for 30g of fibre per day. Good sources include wholegrain bread, brown rice, wholewheat pasta, oats, fruits, vegetables, beans, and pulses.
- Increase fibre gradually to avoid bloating and wind.
- Drink plenty of water—at least 6-8 glasses (around 2 litres) a day. This helps the fibre do its job effectively.
To help you stay on track with your nutritional goals, WeCovr provides complimentary access to our CalorieHero AI-powered calorie and nutrition tracking app when you take out a policy with us.
2. Adopt Healthier Toilet Habits
- Don't Strain: Go to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge. Ignoring it can make stools harder to pass. Relax and let things happen naturally.
- Avoid Lingering: Don't spend more time on the toilet than necessary. Reading or using your phone can lead to subconscious straining.
- Consider a Footstool: Placing your feet on a low stool changes your body posture, which can help you empty your bowels more easily.
3. Stay Active
Regular physical activity, like a brisk 30-minute walk each day, helps stimulate bowel function and prevent constipation. It also promotes healthy circulation.
4. Use Over-the-Counter Remedies
For mild discomfort, pharmacies offer a range of creams, ointments, and suppositories. These products can help soothe itching and reduce swelling but are generally for short-term use. Always read the label and speak to a pharmacist if you're unsure.
NHS vs. Private Treatment for Haemorrhoids
If home treatments aren't effective, or if your haemorrhoids are more severe, medical intervention may be necessary. You can access treatment through the NHS or by using private medical insurance.
The NHS Treatment Pathway
- GP Consultation: Your first port of call is your GP. They will ask about your symptoms and may perform a gentle examination to confirm the diagnosis. For any rectal bleeding, a GP check-up is essential.
- Referral: If your haemorrhoids are persistent or severe (e.g., Grade 3 or 4), your GP will refer you to a hospital specialist, usually a colorectal surgeon or a gastroenterologist.
- NHS Waiting Times: One of the main challenges with the NHS pathway can be waiting times. According to recent NHS England statistics, the median waiting time for non-urgent elective care can be several months from referral to treatment. This can mean a long and uncomfortable wait for relief.
- NHS Treatment Options: The NHS offers several effective treatments, typically performed in a hospital outpatient clinic or as a day-case procedure:
- Banding (Rubber Band Ligation): The most common treatment for Grade 2 and 3 haemorrhoids. A very tight elastic band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. It shrivels and falls off within about a week.
- Sclerotherapy: An oily solution is injected into the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and harden.
- Electrotherapy (Diathermy): A gentle electric current is applied to the base of the haemorrhoid, causing it to coagulate and shrink.
- Haemorrhoidectomy: This is a surgical operation to cut out and remove the haemorrhoids. It is reserved for severe (Grade 4) or recurrent cases and is performed under general anaesthetic. Recovery can be painful and take several weeks.
- Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy: An alternative surgical procedure where a special instrument is used to staple the haemorrhoid back into place higher up in the anal canal. It is generally less painful than a traditional haemorrhoidectomy.
- Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation Operation (HALO): A minimally invasive procedure that uses a tiny ultrasound probe to locate the arteries supplying the haemorrhoids. The surgeon then uses a stitch to tie off the artery, causing the haemorrhoid to shrink.
How Private Medical Insurance (PMI) Provides a Solution
For many, waiting months for treatment is not an appealing prospect. This is where private medical insurance UK comes in, offering a fast and convenient alternative for eligible conditions.
Crucial Point: Standard UK private health cover is designed for acute conditions—illnesses or injuries that are short-term and likely to respond to treatment. It does not cover chronic (long-term) conditions or pre-existing conditions that you had before your policy began.
A new episode of haemorrhoids that develops after you take out your policy is typically considered an acute condition and would therefore be eligible for cover.
Key Benefits of Using PMI for Haemorrhoid Treatment
- Speed of Access: This is the most significant advantage. Instead of waiting weeks or months for an NHS appointment, you can often see a specialist within days of your GP referral. Treatment can follow just as quickly.
- Choice and Control: PMI gives you more control over your care. You can often choose the specialist you want to see and the hospital where you'll be treated from a network of approved providers. You can also schedule appointments at times that suit you.
- Comfort and Privacy: Private hospitals typically offer en-suite rooms, better food, and more flexible visiting hours, creating a more comfortable and less stressful environment for your treatment and recovery.
- Access to Advanced Treatments: The private sector is often an early adopter of the latest, minimally invasive techniques. This can include procedures like the Rafaelo® Procedure or eXroid® electrotherapy, which may offer quicker recovery times than some traditional methods.
A Closer Look at Private Haemorrhoid Treatment Options
The private sector offers all the standard treatments available on the NHS, plus some newer, less invasive options. Here is a comparison of some popular procedures.
| Procedure | How It Works | Best For | Typical Recovery | Typical Private Cost (Self-Pay) | Is it Covered by PMI? |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rubber Band Ligation | An elastic band cuts off the blood supply, causing the pile to shrivel and fall off. | Grades 1-3 | 1-2 days discomfort | £800 - £1,500 | Yes, widely covered. |
| HALO (Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation) | Ultrasound locates and ties off the arteries feeding the piles, causing them to shrink. | Grades 2-3 | 2-3 days | £3,500 - £5,000 | Yes, widely covered. |
| Rafaelo® Procedure | Uses radiofrequency energy to heat, coagulate and shrink the haemorrhoid. Performed under local anaesthetic. | Grades 1-3 | 1-2 days | £2,000 - £3,500 | Yes, covered by most major insurers. |
| eXroid® Electrotherapy | A low electrical current is applied to the base of the pile, causing it to shrink. No anaesthetic needed. | All Grades (1-4) | Minimal, return to normal activities same day. | £1,500 - £2,500 | Yes, increasingly covered. |
| Traditional Haemorrhoidectomy | Surgical removal of the haemorrhoids under general anaesthetic. | Grade 4, severe or external piles | 2-4 weeks, can be painful. | £3,000 - £4,500 | Yes, for clinically necessary cases. |
Note: Costs are estimates for 2025 and can vary significantly based on the hospital, consultant, and location. These are self-pay prices; with PMI, your insurer pays the costs (minus any excess).
Understanding the Fine Print of Your Private Health Cover
To make the most of your private health cover, it's vital to understand a few key terms. This ensures there are no surprises when you need to make a claim.
Pre-existing and Chronic Conditions
This is the most important rule in UK PMI.
- A pre-existing condition is any disease, illness, or injury for which you have experienced symptoms, received medication, advice, or treatment before your policy start date. Insurers will not cover these, at least not initially.
- A chronic condition is one that is long-lasting and cannot be cured, only managed (e.g., diabetes, asthma). PMI does not cover the routine management of chronic conditions.
While haemorrhoids can be recurrent, a specific flare-up that requires treatment is typically classed as an acute episode. If this episode and its symptoms begin after your policy starts, it is generally covered. If you have a long history of treatment for piles before taking out cover, it would be considered pre-existing and excluded.
Underwriting: How Insurers Assess Your Health
- Moratorium Underwriting: This is the most common type. You don't declare your full medical history upfront. The insurer applies a blanket exclusion for any condition you've had in the last 5 years. However, if you go for a set period (usually 2 years) without any symptoms, treatment, or advice for that condition after your policy starts, it may become eligible for cover.
- Full Medical Underwriting (FMU): You provide your full medical history when you apply. The insurer then decides what to exclude permanently based on your history. It provides certainty from day one but may have more permanent exclusions.
Outpatient vs. Inpatient Cover
- Outpatient: This covers consultations, diagnostic tests, and scans that don't require a hospital bed. Your initial consultation with a specialist for haemorrhoids would be an outpatient visit.
- Inpatient/Day-patient: This covers treatment where you are admitted to a hospital bed, even if it's just for a few hours (day-patient). Procedures like a haemorrhoidectomy or HALO would fall under this category.
Most policies offer comprehensive inpatient cover but may have limits on outpatient care. It's important to choose a level of outpatient cover that suits your needs.
How WeCovr Makes Finding PMI Simple
Navigating the world of private medical insurance UK can feel complex, but you don't have to do it alone. As an expert, independent PMI broker, WeCovr is here to help you find the perfect policy for your needs and budget, at no extra cost to you.
We compare policies from all the UK's leading insurers, breaking down the jargon and explaining the differences in cover. We take the time to understand your requirements and recommend a plan that offers the right protection. Our clients benefit from our expertise and enjoy high satisfaction ratings for our clear, friendly, and professional service.
Furthermore, when you purchase a PMI or Life Insurance policy through WeCovr, we often provide discounts on other types of cover, helping you protect more of what matters for less.
Is haemorrhoid treatment covered by private medical insurance?
Do I need a GP referral for private haemorrhoid treatment?
How much does private haemorrhoid surgery cost in the UK?
Can I get private health cover if I've had piles in the past?
Your Next Step to Faster Healthcare
Haemorrhoids are a common condition, but you don't have to endure a long, uncomfortable wait for effective treatment. Private medical insurance offers a valuable alternative, providing fast access to specialist care, greater choice, and a more comfortable patient experience for new, acute conditions. By understanding the treatment options and how PMI works, you can make an informed decision about your health.
Ready to explore your options and skip the queue?
Related guides
Why private medical insurance and how does it work?
What is Private Medical Insurance?
Private medical insurance (PMI) is a type of health insurance that provides access to private healthcare services in the UK. It covers the cost of private medical treatment, allowing you to bypass NHS waiting lists and receive faster, more convenient care.How does it work?
Private medical insurance works by paying for your private healthcare costs. When you need treatment, you can choose to go private and your insurance will cover the costs, subject to your policy terms and conditions. This can include:• Private consultations with specialists
• Private hospital treatment and surgery
• Diagnostic tests and scans
• Physiotherapy and rehabilitation
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Your premium depends on factors like your age, health, occupation, and the level of cover you choose. Most policies offer different levels of cover, from basic to comprehensive, allowing you to tailor the policy to your needs and budget.
Questions to ask yourself regarding private medical insurance
Just ask yourself:👉 Are you concerned about NHS waiting times for treatment?
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Benefits offered by private medical insurance
Private medical insurance provides numerous benefits that can significantly improve your healthcare experience and outcomes:Faster Access to Treatment
One of the biggest advantages is avoiding NHS waiting lists. While the NHS provides excellent care, waiting times can be lengthy. With private medical insurance, you can often receive treatment within days or weeks rather than months.
Choice of Consultant and Hospital
You can choose your preferred consultant and hospital, giving you more control over your healthcare journey. This is particularly important for complex treatments where you want a specific specialist.
Better Facilities and Accommodation
Private hospitals typically offer superior facilities, including private rooms, better food, and more comfortable surroundings. This can make your recovery more pleasant and potentially faster.
Advanced Treatments
Private medical insurance often covers treatments and medications not available on the NHS, giving you access to the latest medical advances and technologies.
Mental Health Support
Many policies include comprehensive mental health coverage, providing faster access to therapy and psychiatric care when needed.
Tax Benefits for Business Owners
If you're self-employed or a business owner, private medical insurance premiums can be tax-deductible, making it a cost-effective way to protect your health and your business.
Peace of Mind
Knowing you have access to private healthcare when you need it provides invaluable peace of mind, especially for those with ongoing health conditions or concerns about NHS capacity.
Private medical insurance is particularly valuable for those who want to take control of their healthcare journey and ensure they receive the best possible treatment when they need it most.
Important Fact!
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