What is Piles Disease? Types, Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
🩺 What is Piles Disease?
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins and can occur inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). Piles are a common condition, especially in adults over 45, and are often caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum due to straining during bowel movements, pregnancy, or obesity.
🧬 Types of Piles Disease
- Internal Piles: These are located inside the rectum and are usually painless. They may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- External Piles: Found under the skin around the anus, these can cause pain, swelling, and discomfort.
- Thrombosed Piles: These occur when a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid, leading to severe pain and swelling.
- Prolapsed Piles: In some cases, internal hemorrhoids can stretch and bulge outside the anus, becoming prolapsed. They may return inside on their own or may need to be pushed back manually.
⚠️ Symptoms of Piles Disease
- Bright red blood during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Pain or discomfort, especially while sitting
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful
- Leakage of feces in severe cases
🔍 Causes of Piles Disease
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods on the toilet
- Low-fiber diet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting
- Genetic predisposition
🧪 Diagnosis of Piles Disease
Doctors usually diagnose piles through:
- Physical Examination: Inspecting the anus and rectum for external hemorrhoids.
- Digital Rectal Exam: Inserting a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to check for abnormalities.
- Anoscopy: A small tube with a light is inserted to view internal hemorrhoids.
- Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: Recommended if the patient has signs of gastrointestinal diseases or to rule out colorectal cancer.
💊 Treatment of Piles Disease
Treatment depends on the severity and type of hemorrhoids:
1. Home Remedies
- High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Warm sitz baths
- Over-the-counter creams and ointments
- Ice packs to reduce swelling
- Hydration and avoiding straining
2. Non-surgical Treatments
- Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood flow.
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.
- Infrared Coagulation: Infrared light is used to cut blood supply.
3. Surgical Treatments
- Hemorrhoidectomy: Complete surgical removal.
- Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: Cuts off blood flow to hemorrhoid tissue.
❓ FAQs about Piles Disease
Q1. Are piles and fissures the same?
No, piles are swollen veins, while fissures are small tears in the anal lining.
Q2. Can piles go away on their own?
Mild cases may resolve without treatment, but severe cases require medical intervention.
Q3. Is surgery the only option?
No, lifestyle changes and non-surgical methods are effective in many cases.
Q4. Can piles be prevented?
Yes, with a high-fiber diet, hydration, and avoiding straining during bowel movements.
🧾 Conclusion
Piles disease is a common yet manageable condition. Understanding its types, symptoms, causes, and treatment options helps in early diagnosis and effective management. With the right care, lifestyle changes, and medical guidance, one can successfully control and even prevent this painful condition.
