Piles: Symptoms, Images, Causes, and Types

Piles, also known as Haemorrhoids, are a common medical condition that affects many people. They are essentially swollen blood vessels located in the anus or lower rectum. Piles can cause discomfort, pain, itching, and bleeding, especially during bowel movements. 

While the exact cause of piles is unclear, factors such as constipation, pregnancy, obesity, and prolonged sitting or standing can contribute to their development.

While piles can be uncomfortable, they are not considered serious health concerns. They can often be managed effectively with simple lifestyle changes such as eating a high-fibre diet, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly.

Piles can be classified based on the location and severity. 

Type of Piles Based on Location

Piles are classified into four main types based on their location within the rectum and where the swollen vein develops. The types include: 

1. External Piles: These are small lumps that form underneath the skin around the anus. They are very itchy and painful. Usually, bleeding is present in this case.
2. Internal Piles: The lumps develop within the rectum and are usually not visible during an external examination. A small amount of bleeding can be seen during bowel movements. They rarely cause pain or discomfort.
3. Prolapsed Piles: Internal and external piles can prolapse, which means they can stretch and bulge outside the anus. These may bleed or cause severe pain. 
4. Thrombosed Piles: It occurs when a blood clot forms in one or more veins in the anal area. They typically appear as a hard lump on the anus, which can be painful to touch or sit on.

Type of Piles Based on Severity

Piles are graded based on their severity and the extent to which they have prolapsed or come out of the anus. The grading system for piles is as follows:

1. Grade I: In this stage, the piles are small. They may not be visible or felt as they are located inside the anus.
2. Grade II: During bowel movements, the piles may prolapse or come out of the anus but return afterwards to their original position.
3. Grade III: The piles prolapse during bowel movements and require manual pushing back afterwards.
4. Grade IV: Here, the piles will always be prolapsed and cannot be pushed back in manually.

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In most cases, the piles symptoms are not serious and resolve on their own. You can also see some piles real images to understand piles better. Piles are characterised by one or more of the following symptoms:

1. Painful lumps around the anal region
2. Itching, redness, inflammation and discomfort 
3. Presence of slimy fluid near the anus
4. Bright red coloured blood after passing stools
5. Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying even after passing stool

The exact cause of piles is uncertain. They are associated with increased pressure in the blood vessels and tissues around the anal area, resulting in swelling and inflammation. Some potential causes of piles can include:

1. Straining While Pooping: Applying excessive pressure while passing stool can cause veins in the rectal area to swell, developing piles.
2. Low Fibre Diet: A diet that is low in fibre can cause constipation, leading to piles.
3. Anal or Rectal Infections: Infections in the anal or rectal area can cause inflammation and swelling, increasing the likelihood of developing piles.
4. Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements and difficulty in passing stool can lead to the development of piles.

Piles Risk Factors

The following are the potential risk factors for piles that might put an individual at a higher chance of developing the disease:

1. Pregnancy: Pregnant women are more likely to develop piles due to the pressure exerted on the rectal veins by the growing uterus.
2. Age Between 45-65 Years: Piles can affect people of any age, but they are more common in individuals aged 45 to 65.
3. Obesity: People who are overweight or obese have a higher risk of developing piles because of the extra pressure on the rectal veins.
4. Chronic Constipation: If you suffer from chronic constipation, you may be more prone to developing haemorrhoids as you strain more often during bowel movements.
5. Sitting for Long Hours: If you spend a lot of time sitting, especially on hard surfaces, it can increase pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, leading to haemorrhoids.
6. Lifting Heavy Weights: Regularly lifting heavy objects can put undue pressure on the rectal veins and increase the risk of developing piles.
7. Family History of Haemorrhoids: Having a family history of piles increases the likelihood of this condition.

There might not be a definitive way to prevent piles. Still, there are measures to reduce the risk of developing piles or worsening the condition. Below mentioned are some of the measures for the prevention of piles:

1. Eating a fibre-rich diet
2. Maintaining a moderate weight
3. Limit the amount of sitting time on the toilet
4. Manage constipation and prevent straining during bowel movements
5. Avoiding heavy lifting
6. Staying physically active by doing regular exercise

The healthcare professional will generally be able to diagnose piles based on symptoms and a physical examination. Different types and piles images will help you understand it better. The doctor will do a complete physical examination to examine the anal area carefully. They may ask the following questions:

1. Do any close relatives have piles?
2. Has there been any blood or mucus in the stools?
3. Did you recently lose any weight?
4. Has your bowel movements changed recently?
5. Have you seen piles real images?

However, in a few cases, the following additional tests may also be recommended to confirm the presence and severity of the piles.

1. Digital Rectal Exam: The doctor will insert a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to feel for swollen blood vessels.
2. Anoscopy: An anoscope (lighted tube) will be used in anoscopy to view the lining of the anus and rectum. 
3. Sigmoidoscopy: A sigmoidoscope (lighted tube with a camera) is used to view the lower part of the colon and rectum. This technique includes two types: flexible sigmoidoscopy and rigid sigmoidoscopy. 
4. Stool Guaiac Test: A stool sample is analysed to find any traces of blood in it.
5. Colonoscopy: The doctor may advise a colonoscopy when they want to examine the entire colon by using a colonoscope (long, flexible, lighted tube) to check for any abnormal growths, a tissue that is red or swollen, sores (ulcers), or bleeding.

How to prepare for the doctor's consultation?

If you are planning to see a doctor for symptoms of piles, there are several steps you can take to prepare for your appointment. It's helpful to keep a record of all the symptoms that you have been facing. Some things that you should keep in mind include: 

1. List down piles symptoms, including any that may seem unrelated to the condition.
2. The patient must inform the doctor about key personal information, including dietary habits and regular bowel movements.
3. The doctor must be informed about all the medications, vitamins or supplements that they take.
4. The following questions should be asked the doctor:
   1. What's the likely cause of the condition?
   2. Is this condition likely to be temporary or permanent?
   3. Will there be any complications related to this condition?
   4. What treatment approach do you recommend?
   5. Which treatment would work if the first line of treatments doesn't work?
   6. Am I a candidate for surgery? Why or why not?
   7. Are there additional self-care steps that might help?
   8. I have other medical problems. How can I manage these along with haemorrhoids?
   9. Can I see some piles real images?
   10. Can you explain piles meaning to me?

In most cases, piles resolve on their own without needing any treatment. However, if an individual has piles for an extended period, the lumps may grow in size, and the piles symptoms may also worsen, leading to significant pain, discomfort and reduced quality of life.

In that case, the proctologist may suggest one of the following methods for piles treatment: 

Home Remedies for Piles

While there are various medical treatments for piles, there are also several home remedies that may help alleviate symptoms. Some common remedies for piles include: 

1. Sitz Bath: Sitting in a warm bath for 10-15 minutes can help alleviate pain and itching caused by piles. You can prepare a Sitz bath using Epsom salt and add glycerin for additional benefits.
2. Fibre Intake: Eating a diet high in fibre helps prevent constipation and straining during bowel movements, which can aggravate piles. Good sources of fibre include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes.
3. Flavonoids: These are compounds found in fruits and vegetables such as blackberries, cherries, and red grapes, reduce inflammation and improve circulation, reducing the risk of developing piles.
4. Vitamin C Rich Foods: Foods that are high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, strengthen blood vessels.
5. Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress to the anus reduces swelling and alleviates pain.
6. Aloe Vera Gel: This gel lessens pain, itching, and inflammation.
7. Witch Hazel: Applying witch hazel prevents pain and bleeding.

Ayurvedic Treatment for Piles

Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine originating from India, offers a range of natural remedies and treatments for piles. Some common Ayurvedic treatments for piles include:

1. Triphala Powder:
   1. This powder can help alleviate symptoms of piles (haemorrhoids) by improving digestion and reducing constipation.
   2. Triphala is a blend of three fruits - amla, haritaki, and bibhitaki. It is often taken in powder form mixed with water or as a supplement in capsule form. To learn more, read about the benefits of triphala powder for Piles in Hindi
2. Kshar Sutra:
   1. Kshar Sutra is an Ayurvedic treatment for piles (haemorrhoids) that involves the use of a medicated thread. The thread is inserted into the rectum near the piles and is said to cause the piles to dry up and fall off over time.
   2. The Kshar Sutra treatment is performed by a trained practitioner and is usually done on an outpatient basis. The procedure takes about 30 to 45 minutes, and most people are able to return to their normal activities within a few days.

Lifestyle Changes for Piles

Making certain lifestyle changes can help prevent and manage symptoms of piles. Some of the lifestyle modifications that can help with piles include:

1. Exercise: Regular exercise can help prevent constipation and improve overall bowel function.
2. Avoid Prolonged Sitting or Standing: Prolonged sitting or standing can increase pressure on the veins in the anus and rectum, which can aggravate piles.
3. Staying Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help prevent constipation and keep stools soft.
4. Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements: Straining while passing stool can pressure the anus and lower rectum veins. 
5. Avoid Heavy Lifting: Heavy weight lifting can increase the pressure in the anorectal region and lead to swelling of blood vessels, posing a risk for piles.
6. Using Indian Commode: A squatting toilet may help alleviate symptoms of piles (haemorrhoids) in some individuals. The squatting position improves bowel movements by relaxing the anal muscles, which helps prevent straining and constipation.

Medications for Piles

There are several medications available to help relieve piles symptoms. Over-the-counter oral medications, creams and ointments are some of the treatments used for piles. Depending on the severity of haemorrhoids, the proctologist would prescribe the following:

1. Pain Reliever Medications such as Aspirin or Ibuprofen can temporarily help relieve the discomfort.
2. Stool Softeners help relieve constipation.
3. Over-the-counter Topical Haemorrhoid Creams or suppositories containing hydrocortisone, or use pads containing witch hazel or a numbing agent.

Piles Treatment without Surgery

If haemorrhoids do not improve by home remedies and prescription medicines, then the following non-surgical treatment methods for piles can be considered:

1. Rubber Band Ligation: The surgeon places a rubber band around the haemorrhoids in Rubber Band Ligation. This causes haemorrhoid necrosis (tissue death), and they drop off.
2. Sclerotherapy: The surgeon injects a liquid called a sclerosant into the haemorrhoids, which decreases the blood supply and causes the haemorrhoids to shrink. 
3. Electrotherapy: An electrical current is applied to the piles, causing them to shrink and eventually fall off.
4. Infrared Coagulation: This method works similarly to that of sclerotherapy. Instead of a liquid, infrared light is used to shrink the haemorrhoids.

Piles Treatment with Surgery

Surgical treatment of haemorrhoids is recommended if any of the therapies mentioned above do not work. The various surgical treatment methods for haemorrhoids include:

1. Haemorrhoidectomy: In this surgery, doctors remove the swollen veins in the anus or rectum that cause piles. It is usually done for large or protruding piles and requires general anaesthesia. 
2. Stapled Haemorrhoidectomy: This procedure involves using a stapling device to cut off the blood flow to the piles and reposition them back inside the anus. Stapled Haemorrhoidectomy is less painful than traditional surgery but may not be suitable for all types of piles. 
3. Haemorrhoidal Artery Ligation: During this minimally invasive procedure, the surgeon uses ultrasound to locate the blood vessels supplying the piles and ties them off, which causes the piles to shrink and eventually fall off. It is generally used for grade-1 piles.
4. Laser Surgery for Piles: In this surgery, a laser beam is used to cut off the blood supply to the piles. It causes piles to shrink and eventually disappear. Piles laser surgery is a quick and relatively painless procedure.  

Refer to the page recovery rates for piles to know more about the recovery rate after a patient has undergone the above-mentioned piles treatment methods.

Cost of Piles Surgery

The cost of piles surgery in India can vary depending on several factors, including the type of surgery like Piles Laser Surgery, the hospital or clinic where the procedure is performed, and the location. Here is a table highlighting the cost of different types of Piles Surgery: 

Piles can be uncomfortable and painful if piles are not treated in time, but they don’t tend to cause serious problems.The risks and complications of piles include:

1. Blood clots in the swollen vein
2. Bleeding
3. Iron deficiency anaemia is caused by blood loss
4. Infection of an external haemorrhoid
5. Skin tags, or excess skin when an external haemorrhoid goes away
6. Development of strangulated haemorrhoids (muscles in the anus cut off blood flow to a prolapsed internal haemorrhoid)

When to see a doctor?

In some cases, the symptoms of piles can be mistaken for those of other conditions, such as anal fissures or colorectal cancer. A doctor can perform a physical examination and possibly other tests to determine the cause of your symptoms and provide an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan. You can contact the doctor if you have the following complications: 

1. Haemorrhoids do not improve after a week
2. Severe pain
3. Bleeding during bowel movement
4. Itching
5. Inflammation and swelling

Searching for piles images online can provide visual aids for understanding the condition, but it is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

The dietary habits of an individual play an important role in developing any disease condition. Staying hydrated and eating a diet rich in minerals and vitamins will help reduce the risk of developing any disease condition.

Below mentioned are some dietary measures for individuals with piles:

1. Consuming foods that are high in dietary fibre, such as wheat, brown rice, oatmeal, bran, etc., can help keep stools soft and make their passing easier.
2. Including fresh fruits and vegetables in the diet.
3. Drinking plenty of water prevents constipation, decreasing the need to strain while passing a bowel movement.
4. Avoid caffeine (found in coffee and cola) and tea intake.
5. Avoid alcohol consumption.

Piles can cause discomfort and embarrassment but can be managed easily with proper knowledge and treatment. It can cause symptoms such as itching, pain, and bleeding during bowel movements. Prevention is key when it comes to piles. Maintaining a healthy diet with enough fibre, staying hydrated, and avoiding prolonged sitting or standing can help prevent its development.

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to treat piles. Many advanced surgical piles treatment options are available, like hemorrhoidectomy, Laser surgery for piles, Stapled haemorrhoidopexy etc. You can contact the experts at HexaHealth for the best surgical and non-surgical treatment options available for piles. 

Don't let piles hold you back! Know the symptoms and take control with proper treatment and prevention. With the right knowledge and care, you can live a comfortable and confident life, free from the discomfort of haemorrhoids.

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