Stock photo. Posed by model.

What are haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoidal cushions are vascular structures in the anal canal that are present in everyone. The haemorrhoidal cushions swell to ensure proper closure of the anus. These cushions can however cause problems when they enlarge or get inflamed. This occurs when the blood vessels in the haemorrhoidal tissue swell due to excessive pressure exerted on weakened tissue, for instance by straining to move stool. Contributing factors include obesity, nutrition, irregular bowel habits (constipation or diarrhea), pregnancy and anal intercourse. There are two types of haemorrhoids: internal haemorrhoids which are located inside the anus and external haemorrhoids, that protrude outside the anus.

What types of haemorrhoids are there?

There are two types of haemorrhoids: internal haemorrhoids, which are located inside the anus and external haemorrhoids that protrude outside the anus. Swollen or inflamed internal haemorrhoids will usually cause less discomfort, while external haemorrhoids cause the majority of problems for those who suffer them. Both need to be treated. Although haemorrhoids themselves are not dangerous or life threatening, infected haemorrhoids can cause serious complications.

What are the symptoms of haemorrhoids?

You may have developed haemorrhoids (also known as ‘piles’), if you experience the following symptoms: blood in your stool or toilet bowl, blood on your toilet paper, incomplete and painful bowel movements, itching and/or irritation in or near the anus, a painful lump in or near your anus, or pain while sitting. We do suggest you consult your general practitioner if you are not sure whether your symptoms are caused by haemorrhoids. Bleeding and pain from your rectum could be symptoms of a more serious illness. Many people feel embarrassed when facing the problem and frequently seek medical care only when the case is advanced.

How can I prevent haemorrhoids?

The best way to prevent haemorrhoids, and to prevent them from re-occurring, is a healthy lifestyle with a good mix of (fibrous) nutrition and exercise, regular toilet habits and personal hygiene.

Nutrition: increase your fibre intake. Eat sufficient grains, fruits and vegetables and drink plenty of fluid (no alcohol) – recommended are 1.5-2 litres a day.

Exercise: exercise daily and aim for a healthy weight as obesity may increase the risk of haemorrhoids.

Toilet habits: avoid straining while attempting to defecate and avoid laxatives as they can aggravate haemorrhoids. Spend as little time as possible on the toilet, but at the same time do not rush your natural needs. Go to the toilet regularly and do not not to hold it in. This could result in constipation, causing you to exert more pressure.

Personal hygiene: using regular toilet paper, wipe the anal area gently but thoroughly – front to back – after each bowel movement. In addition, you may use moist wipes designed for adult bathroom use or baby wipes.

How can I reduce pain and itching?

A combination of hygiene and topical treatment is key.

Hygiene: be gentle when wiping after each bowel movement, so as not to damage the haemorrhoidal tissue. Clean the anal area regularly with a gentle stream of water (do not use soap or scented cleaning agents). Avoid scratching, which could damage skin and worsen the condition. Push the flabby haemorrhoid(s) gently back inside.

Treatment: use Hemoproct Gel or Spray to treat (and prevent) anal discomfort and haemorrhoids.

Who gets haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids affect approximately 50 percent of the population and appear to be distributed evenly across both male and females. Your chances of getting haemorrhoids may increase with irregular bowel habits, constipation or diarrhea, genetics, little exercise, low fibre diet, pregnancy and delivery, obesity, age, sitting for long periods of time and anal intercourse.

Are haemorrhoids contagious?

No, haemorrhoids are not contagious. Genetic factors do play a role. If you have family members suffering from haemorrhoids, the chances that you will also get them increase.

What should I do if I think I have haemorrhoids?

Haemorrhoids are usually quite uncomfortable but are not dangerous or life threatening. Haemorrhoidal symptoms can disappear after a few days but will eventually return, often worse. Use Hemoproct Gel or Hemoproct Spray for rapid relief from haemorrhoids and anal discomfort. Consult your practitioner if you experience fever, sudden sharp pain around the anus or excessive bleeding during bowel movements.

What is the difference between the various Hemoproct products?

The revolutionary Hemoproct product line offers direct relief from haemorrhoids, fissures and anal discomforts such as sensitivity and itching. Hemoproct Spray and Hemoproct Gel contain the patented ingredient, 2QR-complex, that promotes natural healing by creating a physical barrier against harmful bacteria.

Hemoproct Gel can be applied to internal and external haemorrhoids and relieves anal discomforts.

Hemoproct Spray is a lotion in spray form for touch-free application on external haemorrhoids.

Can I use Hemoproct products during pregnancy and while nursing?

Hemoproct is a suitable treatment whilst pregnant or nursing, however it is important to consult your doctor, midwife or pharmacist before using any medicine at that time.

How can I clean the applicator of Hemoproct Gel?

The best way to ensure that the applicators of these products remain clean and hygienic is to wash them out with warm water after each use. You may want to use a little soap when cleaning the applicator or tube to ensure optimal cleanliness (but rinse thoroughly, since contact between the affected area and soap or other scented cleaning agents may cause further irritation). Do not using boiling water on the applicators as they may deform.

What colour should the gel be?

The colour of the gel may vary from transparent/light yellow to brownish due to the use of natural ingredients. This does not affect the effectiveness nor safety of Hemoproct Gel.