Lifestyle changes

Piles can return. There are things you can do to help stop this happening.

Eat a high fibre diet

Having more fibre in your diet helps to soften your poo. This can make it easier for you to go to the toilet.

Eating lots of high-fibre foods makes your poo larger and easier to pass. This can help to prevent piles from returning.  

High-fibre foods include:

• wholegrain breakfast cereals, such as muesli, oats and bran flakes
• fruit and vegetables (try to have 5 pieces a day)
• wholemeal bread and pasta
• brown rice
• beans, lentils and peas
• nuts and seeds

It is best to increase the amount of fibre in your diet gradually. A sudden increase can cause stomach pain and wind. 

Your GP might refer you to a dietitian if you need more advice. 

Drink lots of fluids

Fibre makes your poo larger and softer because it absorbs water. You also need to drink plenty of fluids. 

Try to drink at least 2 litres (3.5 pints) of fluids each day. A large amount of this should be water.

Avoid straining

Do not sit on the toilet for too long and try not to strain. If you have not done a poo in the time that it takes you to have a pee, do not strain to do a poo. Instead, get up and try again later when your urge returns.

Sit forward on the toilet with your feet slightly raised on a low stool. Use your tummy (abdominal muscles), not your shoulders, when having a poo. 

Learn about toilet positions to relieve constipation on the Bladder and Bowel Community website.

If you have any more questions, please contact your doctor or specialist nurse for more information.  

Avoid constipation

Some people can prevent constipation by dietary changes alone. Other people might need to take laxatives. Find what works for you to avoid constipation. Take special care not to become constipated if you are pregnant. 

Keeping the area clean

Use wet wipes to reduce irritation to the area. Pat dry with tissue after.
 

Aftercare

You usually do not need any routine follow-up appointments, unless your surgeon says you do.

After surgery, you might go back to the care of your GP. Sometimes, we might offer you patient initiated follow-up (PIFU). If you have any concerns in the first 6 months after your surgery, contact us.

If you have any concerns more than 6 months after your surgery, contact your GP. They might refer you back to us.