Straining during bowel movements: Putting excessive pressure on the rectal and anal area while passing stool can cause the veins to swell and become irritated. This often occurs due to constipation or diarrhea.
Chronic constipation or diarrhea: Both conditions can lead to frequent straining during bowel movements, which increases the risk of developing hemorrhoids.
Sitting for long periods: Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can put pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, contributing to the development of hemorrhoids.
Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase pressure on the veins in the pelvic area, making hemorrhoids more likely to develop.
Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the pelvic veins and hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause hemorrhoids to develop or worsen.
Genetics: Some individuals may be genetically predisposed to developing hemorrhoids.
Aging: As people age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus may weaken, making hemorrhoids more likely.
Low-fiber diet: A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation, which in turn increases the risk of developing hemorrhoids. Fiber helps to soften stool and make it easier to pass.
Internal piles, also known as internal hemorrhoids, are swollen veins located inside the rectum. They are a common condition, often caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum. This pressure can be due to various factors such as straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, obesity, pregnancy, or sitting for prolonged periods of time on the toilet.
Symptoms of internal piles can include:
Diagnosis of internal piles typically involves a physical examination of the rectal area by a healthcare professional, which may include a digital rectal exam or an anoscopy to visualize the inside of the rectum. In some cases, additional tests such as a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be recommended to rule out other conditions. Treatment options for internal piles range from lifestyle modifications such as increasing fiber intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and avoiding straining during bowel movements to over-the-counter medications like topical creams or suppositories to alleviate symptoms. In more severe cases, medical procedures such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, or surgical removal may be necessary to shrink or remove the hemorrhoids. It's important for individuals experiencing symptoms of internal piles to seek medical advice for proper diagnosis and treatment tailored to their specific condition.
External piles, also known as external hemorrhoids, are swollen veins located around the anal opening. They can develop outside the anus and are covered by skin, unlike internal hemorrhoids, which develop inside the rectum.
Symptoms of external piles may include:
Diagnosing external piles typically involves a physical examination of the anal area by a healthcare professional. This examination may include visual inspection and digital rectal examination to assess the size, location, and severity of the hemorrhoids. In some cases, further diagnostic tests such as anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be performed to rule out other potential causes of symptoms. Treatment options for external piles vary depending on the severity of symptoms but may include lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, increased fiber intake, and maintaining proper hygiene.
Thrombosed piles, also known as thrombosed hemorrhoids, occur when blood clots form in external hemorrhoidal veins. Hemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels in the rectal area, which can be internal or external. When a blood clot forms within an external hemorrhoid, it becomes thrombosed.
Symptoms of thrombosed piles include:
Diagnosing thrombosed piles typically involves a physical examination of the anal area by a healthcare provider. They may visually inspect the anus and palpate the area to identify any swollen, tender lumps indicative of thrombosed hemorrhoids. In some cases, additional tests such as a digital rectal exam or anoscopy may be performed to assess the extent of the condition. Treatment for thrombosed piles often begins with conservative measures such as warm sitz baths, over-the-counter pain relievers, and topical creams to reduce discomfort and swelling.
Prolapsed piles, also known as hemorrhoids, occur when the veins in the rectum or anus become swollen and inflamed. When these veins swell to the point of protruding from the anal opening, they're referred to as prolapsed hemorrhoids.
Symptoms of prolapsed piles may include:
Diagnosing prolapsed piles typically involves a physical examination of the anus and rectum by a healthcare provider. This may include a visual inspection as well as a digital rectal examination. In some cases, additional tests such as a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy may be recommended to rule out other potential causes of symptoms. Treatment options vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases may be managed with lifestyle modifications such as increased fiber intake, topical treatments, and sitz baths to alleviate symptoms.
Bleeding piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort and bleeding. The veins can become swollen due to increased pressure in the lower rectum. This pressure can be caused by various factors such as straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, obesity, pregnancy, and sitting for long periods.
If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to see a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment. While hemorrhoids can sometimes resolve on their own, there are various treatment options available to help alleviate symptoms and promote healing. These may include lifestyle changes, over-the-counter medications, or in severe cases, medical procedures such as rubber band ligation or surgery.
Less invasive procedures:
More invasive procedures:
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and bleeding.
Piles surgery is typically recommended when non-surgical treatments such as dietary changes, medication, and lifestyle modifications fail to provide relief from symptoms, or when the piles are severe or recurrent.
There are several types of piles surgery, including hemorrhoidectomy (removal of the hemorrhoids), stapled hemorrhoidopexy (a procedure to block blood flow to the hemorrhoids), and rubber band ligation (tying off the hemorrhoids with rubber bands).
Pain levels can vary depending on the type of surgery performed and individual pain tolerance. However, most patients experience some discomfort after piles surgery, which can usually be managed with pain medication prescribed by the doctor.
Recovery time can vary depending on the type of surgery and individual factors. Generally, most patients can return to normal activities within a few days to a couple of weeks after surgery. However, it may take several weeks for full recovery.
Your doctor will provide specific instructions on how to prepare for piles surgery, which may include dietary restrictions, medication adjustments, and bowel preparation. It's essential to follow these instructions closely to ensure a successful surgery and recovery.
The results of piles surgery can vary from person to person. While some people may experience long-term relief from symptoms, others may have a recurrence of hemorrhoids over time. Following a healthy lifestyle and dietary habits can help prevent recurrence.