Piles (haemorrhoids) Disease Information

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus. They are widespread and can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain, itching and bleeding. Piles are caused by increased pressure in the veins of the rectum and anus, which can be caused by straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, constipation, sitting for prolonged periods of time, and other factors. There are two types of piles: internal and external. Internal piles are located inside the rectum and are usually painless. External piles are located outside the rectum and can be painful. Treatment for piles can include lifestyle changes, such as eating a high-fibre diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly. Over-the-counter medications and creams can help reduce symptoms. In some cases, surgery may be necessary. Piles can be a painful and uncomfortable condition, but with the right treatment, it can be managed. If you experience any symptoms of piles, it is important to see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.

1. Internal Hemorrhoids: These are located inside the rectum and are usually painless.
2. External Hemorrhoids: These are located outside the anus and are usually painful and itchy.
3. Prolapsed Hemorrhoids: These are internal hemorrhoids that have dropped outside the rectum and become swollen and painful.
4. Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: These are swollen and painful hemorrhoids that contain a blood clot.
5. Strangulated Hemorrhoids: These are prolapsed hemorrhoids that have become trapped outside the rectum and have lost their blood supply.

1. Bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement
2. Pain or discomfort in the anal area
3. Anal itching
4. A lump or swelling in the anal area
5. Painful bowel movements
6. Leakage of feces
7. A feeling of incomplete evacuation after a bowel movement
8. Painful lumps around the anus
9. Discomfort when sitting
10. A mucus discharge from the anus

1. Physical Exam: An examination of the anal area is often the initial action in diagnosing piles. The doctor will search for enlarged blood vessels in and around the anus.
2. Anoscopy: This is a technique in which a slender illuminated tube is inserted into the anus to search for indications of hemorrhoids.
3. Sigmoidoscopy: This is a technique in which a pliable tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum to search for signs of hemorrhoids.
4. Colonoscopy: This is a technique in which a slender illuminated tube is inserted into the rectum and the entire colon is inspected for signs of hemorrhoids.
5. Ultrasound: This is a technique in which sound waves are employed to generate an image of the anal area and search for indications of hemorrhoids.
6. Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to examine for anemia or other conditions that can cause hemorrhoids.

Piles (haemorrhoids) are caused by increased strain in the lower rectum, which can be due to straining while defecating, being overweight, pregnancy, having a low-fibre diet, sitting for extended periods or having persistent constipation or diarrhoea.

The handling of piles (haemorrhoids) depends on the degree of the situation, and could involve alterations in lifestyle, medications, or surgery. Lifestyle Adjustments: These include increasing the amount of fiber in your diet, drinking more water, and exercising regularly. These can assist in decreasing constipation, which can reduce the pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum. Medicines: Over-the-counter medications such as creams and suppositories can help to reduce pain and itching. Prescription medicines may also be used to reduce inflammation and swelling. Surgery: In more serious cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the haemorrhoids. This can include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or laser treatment.

1. Increase your fiber consumption: Consume more fiber-filled foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, to make your stool softer and easier to pass.
2. Drink plenty of liquids: Keeping hydrated is essential for overall health, and it can help keep your stool soft and avoid constipation.
3. Exercise frequently: Regular exercise can improve circulation and reduce pressure on the veins in your rectum.
4. Take a hot bath: Sitting in a hot bath can lessen inflammation and soreness in the affected area.
5. Abstain from straining during bowel movements: Straining can worsen your hemorrhoids and raise your risk of developing new ones.
6. Utilize over-the-counter medications: Creams, ointments, and suppositories can lessen the pain and itching associated with hemorrhoids.
7. Clean the area carefully: Carefully cleaning the affected area after each bowel movement can reduce irritation and stop infection.