Piles(Hemorrhoids)

What Causes Hemorrhoids and What Do They Mean?

Piles, medically known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anus. They can occur internally (inside the rectum) or externally (under the skin around the anus), often causing discomfort, bleeding, itching, or pain during bowel movements. While piles are rarely dangerous, they can significantly affect your quality of life if left untreated.

Common Symptoms of Piles

  • Bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements
  • Pain or discomfort while sitting or passing stool
  • Swelling or a lump near the anus
  • tching or irritation around the anal region
  • Mucus discharge from the anus
  • A feeling of incomplete evacuation after using the toilet

What Causes Piles?

  • Chronic constipation or diarrhea
  • Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Low-fiber diet
  • Pregnancy (due to increased abdominal pressure)
  • Obesity
  • Lack of physical activity

Types of Piles(Hemorrhoids)

Internal Hemorrhoids

Internal hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels located inside the rectum, typically above the point where the rectum meets the anus. Unlike external hemorrhoids, internal ones are usually painless, as they occur in an area with few pain-sensing nerves. However, they can cause rectal bleeding, especially during or after a bowel movement.

In many cases, internal hemorrhoids go unnoticed until they become enlarged or prolapse (push out through the anal opening). At this stage, they may cause discomfort, itching, or a feeling of fullness in the rectum.

Grades of Internal Hemorrhoids:

Internal hemorrhoids are classified into four grades based on their severity:

  • Grade I – Remain inside the rectum; may bleed but do not prolapse.
  • Grade II – Prolapse during bowel movements but return on their own.
  • Grade III – Prolapse and require manual assistance to push back in.
  • Grade IV – Permanently prolapsed and cannot be manually reduced; may cause severe discomfort and complications.

Key Characteristics of Internal Hemorrhoids:

  • Occur inside the rectum
  • Usually painless, but may bleed
  • Bright red blood may appear on toilet paper or in the stool
  • May prolapse during straining, causing temporary bulging outside the anus
  • Often linked to chronic constipation, straining, or prolonged sitting

Diagnosis

A medical diagnosis typically involves

  • Physical examination
  • Digital rectal exam
  • Anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy (if internal piles are suspected)

Effective Treatment Options

Treatment depends on the severity of the hemorrhoids:

Lifestyle and Home Remedies:

 

  • Increase fiber intake (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Drink plenty of water
  • Avoid straining during bowel movements
  • Use sitz baths to relieve irritation
  • Apply over-the-counter creams or suppositories

Medical Treatments for Piles(Hemorrhoids)

When home remedies and lifestyle changes are not enough to relieve hemorrhoid symptoms, medical treatments become necessary. These treatments are designed to reduce discomfort, shrink swollen veins, and prevent recurrence — with minimal downtime.

  • Laser Hemorrhoidoplasty (LHP)- A modern, minimally invasive option that uses a laser probe to shrink the hemorrhoid from within. The laser seals blood vessels, minimizing bleeding and recovery time. Best for: Internal and select external hemorrhoids Advantages: Painless, stitch-free, faster healing
  • Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy- Also known as PPH (Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids), this technique uses a circular stapling device to reposition the hemorrhoid tissue and cut off blood flow. Best for: Prolapsed internal hemorrhoids Benefits: Less painful than traditional surgery, with quicker recovery
  • Hemorrhoidectomy- A surgical procedure in which large or persistent hemorrhoids are completely removed. While highly effective, it is more invasive and may require a longer recovery period. Best for: Severe or recurring internal and external hemorrhoids Recovery time: Up to 2–4 weeks; may involve post-op discomfort
  • Infrared Coagulation (IRC)- This method uses infrared light to create heat, cutting off blood supply to the hemorrhoid and causing it to shrink. It is minimally invasive and can be done in an outpatient setting. Best for: Early-stage internal hemorrhoids Advantages: No incisions, minimal pain
  • Sclerotherapy- A chemical solution is injected into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually disappear. This non-surgical technique is often used for smaller internal hemorrhoids. Best for: Mild internal hemorrhoids Benefits: Quick, simple, and typically painless
  • Rubber Band Ligation (Banding)- A commonly used procedure for internal hemorrhoids, where a small rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid. This cuts off the blood supply, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink and fall off within a few days. Best for: Grade I and II internal hemorrhoids Recovery time: Quick, with minimal discomfort

FAQ'S

Are piles dangerous?

Most hemorrhoids are not dangerous, but severe or untreated cases can lead to complications like anemia or blood clots.

Mild cases can resolve without treatment, especially with proper diet and hygiene. However, persistent or painful piles require medical attention.

With proper care, mild piles can improve within a week. More severe cases may require longer or medical procedures.

No. While both cause rectal discomfort, hemorrhoids are swollen veins, whereas fissures are small tears in the anal lining.

Yes. Moderate, non-strenuous exercise like walking or yoga can help improve digestion and reduce symptoms.

Surgery is only needed for chronic, severe, or thrombosed hemorrhoids that don’t respond to conservative treatment.

Yes. Hormonal changes and increased abdominal pressure can cause or worsen hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Avoid spicy food, caffeine, alcohol, processed foods, and anything low in fiber that can lead to constipation.

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