What is Piles? (Hemorrhoids)
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels found in and around the rectum and anus. These swollen veins can cause discomfort, itching, pain, and sometimes bleeding. Piles are a common condition, and while they can be uncomfortable, they are generally not life-threatening. In many cases, piles go away on their own, but more severe cases may require medical treatment or even surgery.
Causes of Piles
Piles are primarily caused by increased pressure on the blood vessels in the lower rectum and anus. Several factors can contribute to this pressure, including:
- Straining during bowel movements – This is one of the most common causes of piles, often due to chronic constipation.
- Sitting for long periods – Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase the pressure on the rectal veins.
- Pregnancy – Increased abdominal pressure during pregnancy can contribute to the development of piles.
- Heavy lifting – Regularly lifting heavy objects can also lead to strain and the formation of piles.
- Obesity – Excess body weight can put pressure on the pelvic veins, leading to the development of hemorrhoids.
- Low-fiber diet – A diet lacking in fiber can lead to constipation, straining, and, eventually, piles.
- Chronic diarrhea – Frequent bowel movements can irritate and swell the rectal blood vessels, causing piles.
Types of Piles (Hemorrhoids)
Internal Piles
Internal piles are located inside the rectum and are usually not visible. They often do not cause pain because there are fewer pain-sensing nerves inside the rectum. However, they may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
Extternal Piles
External piles occur under the skin around the anus and are often visible. They can be painful, especially when blood clots form within the swollen veins (a condition known as thrombosed hemorrhoids). External piles may also bleed and cause significant discomfort.
Treatment for Piles
Treatment for piles can vary depending on the severity of the condition. Mild cases of piles can often be treated with home remedies or non-surgical methods. However, in more severe cases, surgery may be required to remove or reduce the hemorrhoids.
Non-Surgical Treatment Options
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Lifestyle Changes
Adopting a high-fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, and regular exercise can help prevent and manage piles by reducing constipation and straining during bowel movements. -
Topical Medications
Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can relieve symptoms like itching, pain, and swelling. -
Sclerotherapy
This involves injecting a solution into the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink. This is effective for smaller, internal piles. -
Rubber Band Ligation
A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. The hemorrhoid eventually falls off within a week or two. -
Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
This technique uses infrared light to coagulate blood vessels and shrink the hemorrhoid. It is usually used for internal piles.
Surgical Treatment for Piles
In cases where non-surgical treatments are not effective, surgery may be required to remove or reduce piles. Here are the most common types of surgical procedures for treating hemorrhoids:
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Hemorrhoidectomy
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgical procedure where the hemorrhoids are completely removed. This is considered the most effective treatment for severe or recurring piles. It is usually recommended for patients with large external piles or when other treatment methods have failed. -
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy
Also known as stapling, this procedure is less invasive than a hemorrhoidectomy. It is typically used to treat internal hemorrhoids by repositioning the hemorrhoids and cutting off their blood supply, which causes them to shrink. It has a faster recovery time but may not be as effective for severe cases. -
Laser Surgery
Laser surgery for piles involves using a laser beam to burn and shrink the hemorrhoidal tissue. This method is minimally invasive, causes less pain, and has a quicker recovery time than traditional surgery. -
Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (DGHAL)
This procedure uses a Doppler ultrasound device to locate the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. The surgeon then ties off these arteries, causing the piles to shrink over time.
Surgical Procedure of Piles
Piles, while often uncomfortable and sometimes painful, are treatable with a range of options, from lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments to surgical interventions. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional to discuss the best treatment option for you. Early treatment can prevent complications and improve quality of life.
Meet the Best Doctor for Piles Treatment in Gwalior
Dr. Shubham Gupta is a well-known and experienced surgeon specializing in laparoscopic and laser surgeries. For many years, he has successfully performed advanced surgeries using these modern techniques. Dr. Gupta treats a variety of conditions, including:
- Gallbladder stones
- Inguinal hernia
- Ventral hernia
- Hiatus hernia (reflux disease/GERD)
- Piles
- Fissures
- Fistulas
- Intestinal surgeries
- Colorectal cancer
Dr. Shubham Gupta has helped many patients overcome problems with piles, fissures, and fistulas. He is known for being polite, honest, and caring towards all his patients. Dr. Gupta treats each patient with kindness and understanding, ensuring they feel comfortable and well-cared for.
