What is Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort and bleeding. They may be located inside the rectum (internal piles) or under the skin around the anus (external piles). The condition is common among adults and can range from mild discomfort to severe pain and bleeding.
Common Symptoms of Piles
- Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Swelling or a lump near the anus
- Bright red bleeding from the rectum
- Mucus discharge after passing stool
- A feeling of incomplete bowel movement
Causes of Piles
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
- Straining during bowel movements
- Low-fiber diet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy (due to increased pressure on pelvic veins)
- Aging (weakened rectal tissues)
Types of Piles
- Internal Piles – Located inside the rectum, usually painless but may bleed.
- External Piles – Located under the skin around the anus, often painful and may form clots (thrombosed piles).
Diagnosis
Piles are diagnosed through:
- Physical examination
- Digital rectal exam
- Anoscopy or proctoscopy (to view internal hemorrhoids)
Piles Treatment Options
Non-Surgical Treatments:
- High-fiber diet & increased fluid intake
- Stool softeners & laxatives
- Warm sitz baths
- Topical creams & suppositories
- Ayurvedic & herbal treatments
- Homeopathy remedies
Minimally Invasive Procedures:
- Rubber band ligation
- Sclerotherapy (injection therapy)
- Infrared coagulation (laser treatment)
- Cryotherapy
Surgical Treatments:
- Hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal)
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy
- Laser hemorrhoid surgery (bloodless & faster recovery)
Piles Prevention Tips
- Avoid straining during bowel movements
- Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink plenty of water
- Exercise regularly to prevent constipation
- Don’t sit too long on the toilet
- Maintain a healthy body weight
FAQs about Piles Disease
Q1: Is piles a serious condition?
Piles are not life-threatening but can cause severe discomfort if untreated.
Q2: Can piles go away on their own?
Mild cases may resolve with dietary and lifestyle changes, but persistent piles may need medical treatment.
Q3: Is laser treatment for piles safe?
Yes, laser treatment is safe, minimally invasive, and offers faster recovery.
Q4: Can I treat piles at home?
Yes, mild piles can be managed with fiber-rich diets, hydration, and warm sitz baths.
Q5: Is piles surgery painful?
Modern laser or stapled surgeries are relatively painless and allow quicker recovery.
