Piles (Haemorrhoids): Symptoms, Causes & Treatment

Piles, or haemorrhoids, are among the most common health conditions a person can have in their lifetime. Due to the prevalence of piles, many people remain in the dark about what to expect, do, or say because it is a very uncomfortable situation. For all these reasons, piles can be managed and prevented from worsening with proper information and timely care.

This blog explains in simple terms what piles are, including symptoms and causes, types, different treatment options, and practical steps for prevention. It will also help readers understand the condition clearly and make informed decisions for care.

What are Piles?

Piles are swollen blood vessels that occur in or around the anus and lower rectum. The veins become large, and this can be due to the increased pressure on them, hence causing discomfort and other symptoms. Piles are not fatal, but they may interfere with life if left unattended.

These can affect any age group but are more common in adults, especially those who have acquired certain habits either in lifestyle or diet.

Types Of Piles

Generally, piles are classified based on their position. By knowing the type, one can identify the symptoms and thus opt for the right treatment.

Internal Piles

• Located within the rectum
• Usually painless in the early stages
• May cause bleeding during bowel movements
• Often noticed only when symptoms progress

External Piles

• Found under the skin, around the anus
• It can cause pain, itching, and swelling.
• May cause hard lumps if blood clots develop

Thrombosed piles

• A type of external piles
• It occurs when a blood clot forms inside the pile
• It can be very painful and swollen.
• Often appears suddenly

Common Symptoms of Piles

Symptoms of piles vary according to their type and severity. The discomfort may be mild for some, while others may go through incessant pain.

Common signs include:

• Bleeding while passing, or after passing stools
• Pain or discomfort in the anal region
• Itching or irritation of the anal region
• Swelling or lumps around the anus
• A feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
• Discharge of mucus after defecation

Bleeding from piles is usually bright red. Any bleeding that persists should be investigated by a doctor to exclude other conditions.

Causes of Piles

Piles develop mainly due to increased pressure in the lower rectum, and this can be instigated through several factors over time.

Straining during bowel movements

• Passing hard stools puts stress on the rectal veins.
• Often associated with constipation

Chronic Constipation Or Diarrhoea

• Long-term bowel problems put extra strain
• Piles may cause frequent trips to the toilet.

Low Fibre Diet

• Lack of fibre causes hard stools.
• Makes bowel movements painful and difficult

Prolonged Sitting

• Long periods of sitting, particularly on the toilet
• Common among individuals who do desk-based jobs

Pregnancy

• Increased pressure from the growing uterus
• Hormonal changes are another contributing factor.

Obesity

• Extra body weight increases the pressure on the pelvic veins.
• Increases the risk of piles.

Ageing

• Ageing causes rectal tissues to weaken.
• Makes veins more prone to swelling

Risk Factors That Increase The Chances Of Piles

Piles are more likely to be encountered with certain habits and conditions.

These include:

• Poor hydration
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Ignoring the urge to pass stools
• Heavy lifting without proper technique
• Family history of piles

Addressing these factors early can reduce the risk of developing piles or prevent piles from worsening.

Diagnosis of Piles

Doctors generally diagnose piles through:

• Physical Examination
• Visual examination of the anal region
• Digital rectal examination if required

Sometimes, further tests may be recommended to exclude other causes of bleeding, especially in elderly patients.

Treatment Options for Piles

Treatment, of course, depends upon the severity and type of piles. Many cases improve with simple lifestyle changes, while others may be treated by using medication or surgery.

Home and Lifestyle Treatment

For mild to moderate piles, the following measures often work:

• Increasing fibre consumption from fruits, vegetables and whole grains
• Drinking lots of water throughout the day
• Avoid straining during bowel movements
• Not sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Maintaining a healthy body weight
• Regular physical activity promotes digestion.

These steps help soften the stool and reduce pressure on rectal veins.

Medicines For Piles

Physicians can prescribe or recommend :

• Creams and ointments to alleviate pain and itching
• Suppositories for internal piles
• Pain relief medicines, if needed
• Stool softeners ease the passage of stool.

Medications generally alleviate the symptoms, assist in the healing process, and may not completely remove piles.

Non-surgical Procedures

If lifestyle modifications and medications are not effective, then physicians advise the following minimally invasive procedures:

• Rubber band ligation
• Injection therapy
• Heat-based treatments

These procedures can be performed on an outpatient basis and have minimal recovery time.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is considered for severe or recurrent piles. It may be advised if:

• Bleeding is persistent
• Pain interferes with daily life.
• Other treatments have not been effective

Surgical options include measures to remove or shrink piles permanently and take variable time to recover.

Diet Tips For Managing Piles

Diet plays a big role in both prevention and recovery.

Useful dietary choices include:

• High-fibre foods include oats, lentils, apples and leafy vegetables.
• Adequate water intake to keep the stools soft
• Limiting foods that are processed or spicy if they exacerbate symptoms
• Reducing excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption

A balanced diet supports the digestive system and reduces pressure during defecation.

Preventing Piles

While piles are not entirely preventable, a healthy lifestyle can significantly minimise the risks.

Simple Preventive Steps:

• Respond to bowel urges without delay
• Avoid straining or rushing on the toilet
• Stay physically active
• Maintain good bowel habits
• Include fibre in everyday meals.

Consistency in these habits does, over time, make a difference.

Piles During Pregnancy

Piles are common in pregnancy because of hormonal changes and pressure on pelvic veins. They often improve once delivered.

Management during pregnancy usually concentrates on:

• Dietary changes
• Safe topical treatments
• Gentle exercise

Any medication in pregnancy should only be used after seeking advice from a physician.

When to See a Doctor

Medical attention is required if:

• is uncertainty regarding the aetiology of symptoms

Early diagnosis secures the right treatment and provides peace of mind.

Conclusion 

Piles are a common condition that can affect anyone, but they are manageable with awareness and timely care. The best possible way to avoid piles as a long-term problem is by early recognition of symptoms, understanding various causes, and going for suitable treatment options. Lifestyle changes, proper dieting, and medical guidance can work as the foundation for effective management. Along with treatment, access to dependable health cover lends confidence, especially in cases requiring medical procedures or consultations.

Health insurance plans, for instance, those offered by us at Niva Bupa, support the family in India and could support NRI health insurance seeking treatment during visits back home, enabling smoother access to quality care without disruption in financial planning. Thoughtful preparation and informed choices go a long way in making conditions like piles much less stressful and more manageable in the long run.

FAQ’s

1. Is piles a serious medical condition?

Piles are usually not serious, but they can be uncomfortable and affect daily life. In most cases, piles improve with lifestyle changes and basic treatment. Medical attention is advised if symptoms such as bleeding or pain persist.

2. Can piles go away on their own

Yes, mild piles can settle on their own, especially when dietary habits improve and straining during bowel movements is avoided. Drinking enough water and eating fibre-rich foods often help reduce symptoms.

3. What Foods should be avoided when dealing with piles

Spicy foods, processed items, and low-fibre meals can worsen piles in some people. Reducing caffeine and fried foods may also help ease symptoms and support smoother digestion.

4. Is Bleeding during bowel movements always due to piles?

Not always. While piles are a common cause of bright red bleeding, other conditions can cause similar symptoms. Any ongoing or unexplained bleeding should be checked by a doctor.

5. How Long Does it take for piles to heal?

The healing time depends on the type and severity of piles. Mild piles may improve within a few days to a couple of weeks, while more severe cases may take longer and require medical treatment.

6. Can piles come back after treatment?

Yes, piles can return if the underlying causes such as constipation, straining, or a low-fibre diet are not addressed. Maintaining healthy bowel habits and an active routine helps reduce the chances of recurrence.

7. Are piles contagious?

No, piles are not contagious. They are caused by pressure on blood vessels in the rectal area and cannot be passed from one person to another.

8. Can sitting for long hours cause piles?

Prolonged sitting, especially with limited physical movement, can increase pressure in the lower rectum and contribute to piles. Taking short breaks, staying active, and avoiding long toilet sessions can help lower the risk.