Types of Piles
Piles can be of two main types based on where they occur:
- Internal Piles: These are inside the rectum. You usually can’t see or feel them, but they may bleed during passing stool.
- External Piles: These are under the skin around the anus. They can be painful, itchy, and may cause swelling or lumps.
What Causes Piles?
Piles happen when pressure increases in the veins around the anus. This can be caused by:
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods on the toilet
- Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
- Eating a low-fibre diet
- Pregnancy
- Lifting heavy objects often
- Being overweight
Symptoms of Piles
The symptoms depend on the type and severity of piles. Common signs include:
- Bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood)
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort, especially when sitting
- Swelling or a lump near your anus
- Leakage of stool
If you notice these signs, it's a good idea to talk to a doctor.
Diagnosis of Piles
Doctors can usually tell if you have piles by asking about your symptoms and doing a physical exam. Sometimes, they may use a tool called an anoscope to look inside your rectum. If bleeding is present, they may also ask for a colonoscopy to rule out other problems.
Treatment Options for Piles
Most mild piles get better on their own. But there are many ways to treat them:
Home Remedies
- Drink lots of water
- Eat high-fiber foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Don’t strain during bowel movements
- Use warm water baths (sitz baths)
- Use over-the-counter creams or ointments for itching and pain
Medical Treatments
- Rubber band ligation: Ties off the piles so they dry and fall off
- Infrared coagulation: A special light is used to cut off blood flow
Surgical Treatments
For severe piles or when other treatments fail:
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgery to remove piles
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: Uses staples to fix the piles back inside the rectum
Prevention of Piles
To avoid piles or prevent them from coming back:
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily
- Eat lots of fiber-rich foods
- Don’t delay when you feel the urge to poop
- Stay active and exercise regularly
- Don’t sit on the toilet too long
- Avoid heavy lifting
When to See a Doctor
See a doctor if:
- You notice blood in your stool
- The pain is severe or lasting
- Home treatments don’t help
- You feel a lump that doesn’t go away
Doctors at SCI Hospitals can help diagnose and treat piles with the latest methods and experienced care.
Dr. Nabanita Chatterjee
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, General Surgeon
Dr. Sumeet Shah
MBBS, MS - General Surgery, DNB - General Surgery, General Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon, Bariatric Surgeon
Final Thoughts
Piles may feel uncomfortable or even scary, but they are very common and treatable. By eating healthy, drinking water, and staying active, you can reduce your risk. If you have symptoms, don’t be embarrassed—get help early for fast relief. SCI Hospital’s expert team of doctors is here to support your health and comfort every step of the way.
FAQs
While there's no instant cure, you can find relief quickly through by Sitz baths, Over-the-counter creams or ointments, Increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated, and Avoiding straining during bowel movements
Piles occur due to increased pressure in the lower rectum, often caused by Straining during bowel movements, Chronic constipation or diarrhoea, Pregnancy, Obesity and Prolonged sitting.
Many cases of piles can be effectively managed or treated. Mild cases often resolve on their own with proper care. More severe cases may require medical intervention, including procedures or surgery.
The first stage of piles, also known as Grade I haemorrhoids, involves slightly enlarged blood vessels that remain inside the anal canal. They may bleed but don't protrude outside the anus.
Foods that can help manage piles include a High-fibre foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, Water-rich foods to aid hydration, and Probiotic foods like yoghourt to promote digestive health
Home treatments for piles include Sitz baths, Applying ice packs, Using over-the-counter creams or suppositories, Increasing fibre intake and staying hydrated and Avoiding straining during bowel movements.
While piles are often not serious, they can cause discomfort and affect quality of life. In rare cases, complications like severe bleeding or thrombosed haemorrhoids may require immediate medical attention.
To reduce your risk of developing piles you should Eat a high-fibre diet, Stay hydrated, Exercise regularly, Avoid straining during bowel movements and Don't sit for long periods, especially on the toilet.
Consult Now
Dr. Sumeet Shah is a highly respected and accomplished General Surgeon, Laparoscopic Surgeon, and Bariatric Surgeon with an impressive 30-year career in the medical field. Throughout his illustrious career, Dr. Shah has established himself as a leading expert in treating a wide range of conditions, including Piles, Fissures, Fistula, Pilonidal Sinus, Gallstones, and Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy.
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