Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common but uncomfortable problem for many people. It’s estimated that up to 50% of adults will have experienced piles at some point in their lifetime. Piles occur when veins in the rectum or anus become swollen or inflamed, causing pain and discomfort. This article looks into what piles are and the causes of this condition.

Piles What is it actually

Piles are swollen and inflamed veins in the anus and rectum. They can lead to the formation of tissue bulbs in the rectum or around your anus which can be very painful and makes defecation difficult.

What are the symptoms of piles that I might be experiencing

You may experience symptoms that include

• Painful lumps in the rectum or around the anus
• Itching around the anus, and
• Bleeding while passing stools.

What causes piles

The most common cause of piles is straining during bowel movements. This increases pressure in the veins around your anus and rectum, leading to swelling and inflammation - which can lead to pain, itching, and bleeding.

Other potential causes include

• Obesity
• Pregnancy
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Sitting for extended periods
• A low-fibre diet.

The risk also increases with age due to weakened connective tissue in your anal walls.

What are the treatments available for piles

The most common treatments for piles involve lifestyle changes such as increasing fibre intake through diet or supplementation to soften stools and reduce strain during bowel movements.

Over-the-counter medications, such as topical creams, can also provide relief from symptoms like itching and burning. Additionally, specific procedures may be used to remove enlarged hemorrhoidal tissue or stop bleeding caused by the condition.

More severe cases may require surgery which can be performed with either local anaesthesia or general anaesthesia, depending on individual needs.

Surgical treatment

For more serious cases that do not respond to other treatments, such as creams or ointments, surgical treatment of piles may be recommended.

Surgical treatment aims to reduce swelling and shrink piles by removing excess tissue surrounding the affected area. The most common type of surgery for this condition is a hemorrhoidectomy which involves cutting away any visible external piles with special instruments inserted into the anus. Other surgical procedures include rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation (IRC), and stapled hemorrhoidopexy.

In conclusion, piles can be a source of great discomfort, and it is important to take steps to manage the condition. If you are experiencing any symptoms associated with piles, it is best to consult a doctor for diagnosis and additional treatment options. Even if symptoms are mild, they can become worse over time and lead to serious complications if not managed correctly. Remember that piles are more common than you may think, so do not hesitate to seek medical advice if needed.