What Are Piles?
Piles (also known as Hemorrhoids) are swollen veins in the anus or lower rectum. They are similar to varicose veins but occur in the anal region. Piles may cause pain, itching, discomfort, or bleeding during bowel movements.Although common and usually not serious, untreated piles can worsen over time. Fortunately, they are treatable — both naturally and medically.
What Causes Piles?
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods (especially in the toilet)
- Low-fiber diet
- Pregnancy
- Obesity and sedentary lifestyle
- Aging – risk increases after age 40
Symptoms of Piles
- Bright red blood after passing stool
- Itching or irritation near the anus
- Pain during bowel movements
- Swelling or lump near the anus
- Mucus discharge after passing stool
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
Types of Piles
🔹 Internal Piles
Develop inside the rectum, usually painless but may bleed.
🔹 External Piles
Appear under the skin around the anus, can be painful and itchy.
🔹 Prolapsed Piles
Internal piles that push out through the anus and may require manual re-insertion.
🔹 Thrombosed Piles
External piles with a blood clot, often painful and swollen.
Treatment Options
Conservative (Home-Based) Remedies
- High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink 2–3 liters of water daily 💧
- Use stool softeners
- Sitz bath (soaking anus in warm water)
- Avoid straining on the toilet 🚽
Medical Treatments
- Topical ointments & creams
- Oral painkillers or anti-inflammatory tablets
- Suppositories for internal relief
Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Rubber Band Ligation: Cuts off blood supply to shrink pile
- Sclerotherapy: Injection to shrink pile tissue
- Infrared Coagulation: Laser to burn the pile base
Surgical Options
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Complete removal of piles (for severe cases)
- Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: A painless and quicker recovery method
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are piles dangerous?
A: Not usually. But untreated piles may worsen and lead to chronic pain or bleeding.
Q: Do piles go away on their own?
A: Small cases may resolve with home care. Chronic or severe cases need treatment.
Q: Can I prevent piles?
A: Yes! Eat fiber-rich food, stay active, drink water, and avoid straining during bowel movements.
When to Consult a Doctor?
- Persistent pain or bleeding
- Severe discomfort or swelling
- Symptoms lasting more than a week
- Signs of infection (pus, fever, foul smell)
Book a Consultation Now with our expert proctologists and get the relief you deserve!Text Here