By PilesCare, Official UK Distributor of Pilex Tablets
Not every lump, itch, or bleed is caused by piles. In fact, several common conditions can mimic haemorrhoids and lead to misdiagnosis. This guide will help you:
-
Understand what haemorrhoids actually are
-
Recognise conditions that resemble piles
-
Know when to seek medical advice
-
Explore natural internal remedies like Pilex when appropriate
What Are Haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen blood vessels in the rectum or anus. They can develop internally (inside the rectum) or externally (under the skin around the anus). Typical symptoms include:
-
Bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements
-
Pain or itching in the anal area
-
A lump or swelling near the anus
-
Discomfort when sitting
However, several other conditions can cause similar symptoms, and may need different treatment.
5 Conditions Commonly Mistaken for Piles
1. Anal Fissures
-
Sharp pain during or after passing stool
-
Bright red bleeding
-
Often caused by passing hard stools
-
Usually a visible tear at the anal opening
Key difference: Fissures typically cause more intense pain and are often misinterpreted as external piles.
2. Perianal Abscess
-
Throbbing pain near the anus
-
Swelling or redness
-
Possible fever or discharge
-
Caused by an infection in a blocked gland
Key difference: Abscesses are infections and usually need medical drainage. They’re not vascular like piles.
3. Skin Tags or Sentinel Piles
-
Soft, flesh-coloured flaps of skin
-
No bleeding or pain
-
May develop after a healed fissure or flare-up
Key difference: Skin tags don’t flare or bleed like haemorrhoids. They’re harmless but often mistaken for external piles.
4. Anal Warts (Caused by HPV)
-
Small, painless lumps near the anus
-
May appear in clusters
-
Caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV)
-
Often grow slowly over time
Key difference: Warts are viral, not vascular. They do not bleed and usually don't respond to haemorrhoid treatments.
5. Rectal Prolapse
-
A pink or red mass protruding from the anus
-
May retract on its own or require manual pushing
-
Often caused by prolonged straining or weakened pelvic muscles
Key difference: A prolapse is usually larger and more serious than piles, often needing surgical intervention.
Quick Self-Check: Is It Likely Piles?
Ask yourself:
-
Is the bleeding bright red and painless?
-
Does the lump feel temporary or shrink at times?
-
Are you experiencing symptoms after sitting or straining?
-
Do symptoms improve with hydration or dietary fibre?
If yes, there’s a strong possibility it’s haemorrhoids, and internal support may help.
How Pilex Supports Haemorrhoids (and Why It’s Not for Other Conditions)
Pilex tablets are a natural, Ayurvedic formulation designed to:
-
Reduce inflammation in haemorrhoidal tissue
-
Strengthen and tone rectal veins
-
Improve digestion and relieve straining
-
Promote healing of both internal and external piles
It is not designed to treat infections, warts, or prolapse, but if your symptoms match common haemorrhoid patterns, Pilex may offer safe, internal support without dependency on creams or harsh treatments.
When to See a Doctor
You should always consult a GP or colorectal specialist if you:
-
Experience severe or worsening pain
-
Notice black or tar-like stools
-
Have a high fever or discharge
-
Suspect a prolapse or other internal issue
-
Are pregnant or breastfeeding
Pilex may be used alongside GP advice in mild-to-moderate cases but should not replace professional diagnosis.
Final Word: Get Clear, Then Take Action
If you’ve been self-treating piles without much relief, it might be time to reassess. Start by ruling out other conditions, then take the right steps based on what you’re really dealing with.
If it is haemorrhoids, Pilex offers gentle, internal relief that works with your body, not just on the surface.
Think it’s piles?
Start treating the root cause from the inside.
Try Pilex tablets today at www.pilescare.co.uk the official UK distributor.