Piles or hemorrhoids are the inflamed or irritated tissues of the rectal and anal area. The anal area is built with various blood vessels; these vessels can get enlarged when put under pressure. It is a fact that every one of us is born with hemorrhoids, just that it doesn’t interfere with our life activities unless triggered by various factors.
What is meant by piles or hemorrhoids?
As the mentioned anal area is home to several blood vessels, they are referred to as anal cushions that help keep the anal area close. Generally, they get inflamed when pressure is put due to pregnancy or even constipation. Similarly, like the varicose veins, they must go against gravity to return to the normal position. Piles usually hang from the anal area and look round and discolored.
What are the common types of piles or hemorrhoids?
Depending on the location and type of swelling, hemorrhoids or piles are of two main types. The different types are:
Internal:
Inflamed blood vessels are formed inside the rectum in this type of pile. These internal piles may lead to bleeding and do not cause any pain.
External piles:
These are formed in the anal area and can hang from the anus. They can occasionally bleed and can cause pain and discomfort.
Are both anal fissures and piles the same?
Although they seem similar, they both have the same symptoms, like pain and discomfort, difficulty passing stools, and spotting of blood from the anal area. But fissures occur when there is a tear near the anal area, while piles occur due to the swelling of the blood vessels in the anal area.
What are the different piles causes?
- Constipation
- Overweight
- Pregnancy
- Improper lifting heavy weight
- Extreme diarrhea
What are the common signs and symptoms of piles or hemorrhoids?
- A painful lump in the anal area
- Spotting of blood while passing stools
- Pain during bowel movements
- A feeling of heaviness even after passing stools
- Discomfort in the anal area
- Itchiness around the anal area
Are there any complications of piles or hemorrhoids?
Piles or hemorrhoids aren’t usually life-threatening and may not lead to any complications. Rarely they may lead to complications like:
- Anemia
- Blood clots
- Infections due to moisture retention
What causes skin irritation while suffering from piles?
Piles generally secrete foul-smelling mucus, which may leak at different times. When failed to clean properly, moisture retains, which can lead to bacteria growth causing infections and itching.
When should you visit a piles doctor?
If you notice any growth near the anus or even spot blood while passing stool, you may need to visit the doctor if these hemorrhoid symptoms do not improve even after a week.
Rectal bleeding may be due to various reasons; it is never limited to piles. In case there is a change in your bowel movements along with changes in your stool, seeking medical help is advised as they may point to an underlying condition.
What are the diagnostic procedures that help diagnose piles?
A piles doctor may diagnose a pile with simple testing procedures; the diagnosis processes include:
Physical examination:
The doctor uses a lubricated finger into the anal area to check abnormal growths.
Anoscope:
In people with internal hemorrhoids, physical examination may be difficult as they are present inside the body. In such cases, the doctor might recommend an anoscopy with a tiny camera at the end of the tube that helps view the insides.
What are various treatment options for piles?
Piles or hemorrhoid treatment is not usually extensive and can be performed as an outpatient procedure. Usually, depending on the hemorrhoid stages, the type of treatment is recommended. This is the most frequently conducted procedure.
Non-surgical Treatment Options:
Pile clotting:
This procedure is usually performed in piles that are small or medium size. It uses infrared rays to eliminate them.
Rubber band ligation:
This is the most typical method of treatment. The doctor may place a rubber band at the top end of the pile’s lump. This ensures the blood flow is restricted, making the piles fall off after a week.
Surgical treatment options:
Hemorrhoidectomy:
In this procedure, general anesthesia is used. Small incisions are made near the hemorrhoid, and the piles are removed.
Hemorrhoid stapling:
During this procedure, hemorrhoids are stapled to stop the blood flow, and over time, it falls off.
Reach out to a general surgeon in Coimbatore to seek the best care for piles or hemorrhoids.
Can we prevent piles?
There are various ways to prevent piles. Most importantly, following a healthy lifestyle is important. A few tips include,
Add fiber to your diet:
Piles are generally seen in people who do not consume enough fiber in their diet. Including enough fiber in your diet can prevent piles easily. A few fiber-rich foods are:
- Beans
- Whole grains
- Fruits like apples and banana
Drink enough water:
Taking fiber foods alone is not helpful. You should also drink enough water as this helps in the smooth movement of stools without straining.
Avoid spending long hours in the restroom:
Avoid taking phones or books to the restroom, as spending long hours on the toilet seat can strain bowel movements.
Don’t pass the urge:
Many people tend to pass the urge to go to the bathroom. This leads to hardening of the stools, which leads to constipation.
Stay physically active:
Staying physically active helps in normal colon and rectal functioning. Also, while performing exercise, it is important to ensure that you have proper assistance while lifting heavy weights.
Can piles come back even after recovery?
There are high chances for the piles to recur even after surgery. Usually, it depends on the lifestyle habits that you follow after your recovery.
Important Takeaway:
Piles or hemorrhoids are a condition that does not cause any harm. But it can interfere with your daily life, and at times it can be embarrassing. With small tips, you can always prevent piles or hemorrhoids. Seek medical help from a piles doctor in Coimbatore if you are dealing with piles.
