Piles

UNDERSTANDING PILES (HEMORRHOIDS)

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum or anus.

They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). Symptoms may include pain, itching, irritation, swelling, and bleeding during bowel movements.

Several factors contribute to the development of piles, including chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, prolonged sitting, obesity, and pregnancy. Poor dietary habits, such as low fiber intake, can also aggravate the condition.

Treatment Options

Treatment varies based on severity, ranging from lifestyle changes and home remedies to medical interventions and surgery.

1. Lifestyle Changes

• Increase fiber intake through fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to ease bowel movements.
• Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation.
• Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet, to reduce pressure on rectal veins.
• Engage in regular exercise to improve digestion and prevent strain.

2. Home Remedies

• Warm sitz baths (sitting in warm water for 10–15 minutes) to soothe irritation and reduce swelling.
• Cold compresses to relieve pain and inflammation.
• Use soft, unscented toilet paper or moist wipes to avoid irritation.

3. Medications

• Over-the-counter creams or ointments with hydrocortisone or witch hazel to reduce itching and inflammation.
• Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for discomfort.
• Fiber supplements (e.g., psyllium husk) to soften stools and reduce straining.

4. Medical Procedures

• Rubber Band Ligation: A small band cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid, causing it to shrink.
• Sclerotherapy: A chemical injection shrinks the hemorrhoid.
• Infrared Coagulation: Heat is used to reduce the hemorrhoid.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of severe or persistent hemorrhoids.