- Reassure the patient that minor PR bleeding from haemorrhoids is common, especially with constipation.
- Optimize stool consistency to prevent straining:
- Ensure adequate hydration.
- Encourage a high-fibre diet (if tolerated) or consider a laxative eg. osmotic laxative like macrogol or lactulose
- Symptomatic relief:
- Consider a topical haemorrhoidal preparation (e.g., hydrocortisone or lidocaine cream/suppositories).
- Paracetamol for discomfort (avoid NSAIDs due to risk of GI bleeding).
- Discharge with GP follow-up for monitoring.
- Safety-netting:
- Ask patient to monitor the rectal bleeding and assess for any worsening or new symptoms.
- Advise the patient to seek medical attention if bleeding worsens, becomes persistent, or is associated with dizziness, fatigue, or abdominal pain.
Click here for NICE guidelines on haemorrhoids
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