Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort and bleeding. This common condition can affect people of all ages and often results from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to straining during bowel movements, obesity, or pregnancy. While piles can be painful and distressing, they are usually not life-threatening and can be treated effectively with lifestyle changes, medications, and, in severe cases, surgery. Meet with Best Piles Doctor in Gwalior
What are Piles?
Piles are enlarged blood vessels in or around the anus and lower rectum. They can be internal or external:
- Internal Piles: These occur inside the rectum and are usually not visible. Internal piles are generally painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- External Piles: These develop under the skin around the anus and are visible. External piles can be painful, especially if they become thrombosed, meaning a blood clot forms inside the swollen vein.
Piles can vary in size, and while some may resolve on their own, others may require medical intervention, particularly if they cause significant discomfort or complications.
Causes of Piles
Piles are caused by increased pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. Several factors can contribute to this increased pressure:
- Straining During Bowel Movements: Chronic constipation or diarrhea can cause straining during bowel movements, leading to piles.
- Sitting for Long Periods: Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure on the veins in the anus, leading to piles.
- Obesity: Excess body weight can put additional pressure on the pelvic veins, increasing the risk of piles.
- Pregnancy: During pregnancy, the growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the lower abdomen, which can lead to the development of piles. Hormonal changes during pregnancy also contribute to this condition.
- Low-Fiber Diet: A diet low in fiber can lead to constipation, which causes straining during bowel movements and increases the risk of piles.
- Heavy Lifting: Repeated heavy lifting or other activities that strain the body can increase the pressure in the rectal area, leading to piles.
- Aging: As people age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus can weaken, making piles more likely.
Types of Piles
Piles are categorized based on their location and severity:
- Internal Piles: These are classified into four grades:
- Grade 1: Small swellings on the inside lining of the anus that are not visible and do not prolapse outside the anus.
- Grade 2: Larger swellings that may prolapse outside the anus during bowel movements but retract on their own.
- Grade 3: Hemorrhoids that prolapse during bowel movements and must be pushed back in manually.
- Grade 4: Large, painful hemorrhoids that remain prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in, often requiring surgical treatment.
- External Piles: These occur under the skin around the anus and can be painful, especially if they become thrombosed.
Symptoms of Piles
The symptoms of piles can vary depending on their type and severity. Common symptoms include:
- Bleeding During Bowel Movements: Bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or on the surface of stool is a common sign of internal piles.
- Pain or Discomfort: External piles can cause pain or discomfort, especially when sitting or during bowel movements.
- Itching or Irritation: The area around the anus may become itchy or irritated, particularly with external piles.
- Swelling or a Lump Near the Anus: A hard, painful lump may be felt near the anus, indicating a thrombosed external pile.
- Mucous Discharge: Some people with piles may experience a mucous discharge from the anus.
Diagnosis of Piles
If piles are suspected, a healthcare provider may perform a physical examination to diagnose the condition. This examination may include:
- Visual Examination: A doctor can diagnose external piles through a visual examination of the anus and surrounding area.
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): The doctor may insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for internal piles or other abnormalities.
- Anoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: These procedures involve the use of a small, lighted scope to view the inside of the rectum and lower colon, allowing the doctor to see internal piles.
Treatment of Piles
Treatment for piles depends on their severity and the symptoms experienced. In mild cases, lifestyle changes and home treatments may be sufficient, while more severe cases may require medical or surgical intervention.
- Lifestyle Changes: For mild piles, lifestyle modifications can often alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence:
- Increase Fiber Intake: A diet high in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can soften stool and reduce the need for straining.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation and ease bowel movements.
- Avoid Straining: Avoiding straining during bowel movements can reduce pressure on the rectal veins.
- Exercise Regularly: Regular physical activity can help prevent constipation and reduce pressure on the veins.
- Use Over-the-Counter Creams or Ointments: These products can help relieve itching, pain, and discomfort.
- Medical Treatments: If lifestyle changes are not effective, medical treatments may be necessary:
- Topical Treatments: Prescription creams, ointments, or suppositories can reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling.
- Sclerotherapy: This procedure involves injecting a chemical solution into the piles, causing them to shrink.
- Banding: A rubber band is placed around the base of the internal piles to cut off blood flow, causing them to wither and fall off.
- Surgical Treatments: For severe piles or those that do not respond to other treatments, surgery may be required. Several surgical options are available:
- Hemorrhoidectomy: This is the surgical removal of piles. It is typically recommended for large internal or external piles that cause significant pain or bleeding.
- Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: This procedure involves stapling the prolapsed piles back into place inside the rectum, reducing blood flow to the tissue and causing them to shrink.
- Laser Surgery: Laser treatment uses focused laser energy to remove or shrink piles. It is a minimally invasive option that causes less pain and allows for a quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery.
Recovery After Piles Surgery
Recovery from piles surgery depends on the type of procedure performed. For minor procedures like banding or sclerotherapy, patients can usually return to normal activities within a few days. For more invasive surgeries like hemorrhoidectomy, recovery may take longer, with patients needing to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks.
Post-surgery care is crucial to ensure proper healing and prevent complications. Patients are advised to follow a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, and avoid straining during bowel movements. Pain management, including the use of prescribed pain relievers and sitz baths, can help ease discomfort during recovery.
Expert Care in Piles Surgery: Dr. Shubham Gupta
For those seeking expert care in the treatment of piles, Dr. Shubham Gupta in Gwalior is a renowned laparoscopic and general surgeon with extensive experience in managing and treating piles. Dr. Shubham Gupta offers a comprehensive approach to piles treatment, from lifestyle recommendations and medical management to advanced surgical techniques. His patient-centered care ensures that each individual receives the best possible treatment tailored to their specific needs. Whether you’re dealing with mild discomfort or severe piles requiring surgical intervention, Dr. Shubham Gupta provides compassionate, expert care to help you achieve relief and return to a comfortable, healthy life.
For more information and to schedule a consultation, visit Dr. Shubham Gupta.
