Piles Treatment: Causes, Symptoms, and Effective Remedies

 Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort, bleeding, and itching. This common health issue affects millions of people worldwide and can significantly impact daily life. The good news is that piles are treatable with proper lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, medical procedures.

In this blog, we’ll explore the causes, symptoms, types, and most importantly, the best treatments and home remedies for piles. Whether you are suffering from piles or looking for preventive tips, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know.

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What Are Piles (Hemorrhoids)?

Piles are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They consist of blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibers. Piles can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus).

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Types of Piles

1. Internal Piles – Located inside the rectum, usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.

2. External Piles – Found under the skin around the anus, often painful and itchy.

3. Thrombosed Piles – A severe form where a blood clot forms, causing intense pain and swelling.

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Common Causes of Piles

Several factors can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids, including:

Chronic constipation or diarrhea

Straining during bowel movements

Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet

Lack of dietary fiber

Obesity

Pregnancy

Heavy lifting

Aging

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Symptoms of Piles

Symptoms vary depending on the type and severity of the hemorrhoids. Common symptoms include:

Bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements

Itching or irritation in the anal region

Pain and discomfort, especially while sitting

Swelling or lumps near the anus

Mucus discharge

Feeling of incomplete evacuation

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Diagnosis of Piles

If you suspect you have piles, consult a doctor or a gastroenterologist. The doctor may:

Perform a physical examination

Conduct a digital rectal exam

Use tools like anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy for internal piles

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Treatment Options for Piles

1. Lifestyle and Dietary Changes

These are the first steps to manage and prevent piles:

High-Fiber Diet: Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.

Drink Water: Stay hydrated to soften stools.

Avoid Straining: Don’t force during bowel movements.

Exercise Regularly: Helps prevent constipation and reduces pressure on veins.

Use the Toilet Promptly: Don’t delay bowel movements.

2. Home Remedies for Piles

Warm Sitz Bath: Sit in warm water for 15–20 minutes, 2-3 times daily.

Cold Compress: Reduce swelling by applying ice packs.

Aloe Vera Gel: Natural anti-inflammatory, soothing for external hemorrhoids.

Coconut Oil: Moisturizes and reduces itching.

Witch Hazel: Has anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain and swelling.

3. Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

Topical creams and ointments: Contain hydrocortisone or witch hazel to relieve itching and pain.

Suppositories: For internal piles.

Oral pain relievers: Paracetamol or ibuprofen may ease discomfort.

4. Medical Procedures (For Severe Cases)

If lifestyle changes and medications don’t work, a doctor may suggest:

a. Rubber Band Ligation

A rubber band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off blood supply. The hemorrhoid falls off in a few days.

b. Sclerotherapy

A chemical solution is injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.

c. Infrared Coagulation

Infrared light is used to cut off blood supply to internal hemorrhoids.

d. Hemorrhoidectomy

Surgical removal of large external or internal hemorrhoids. Very effective but may cause temporary pain.

e. Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy

A circular stapling device removes excess tissue and pulls the hemorrhoid back into place.

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Preventing Piles

Prevention is better than cure. Follow these tips to avoid developing hemorrhoids:

Eat high-fiber foods regularly

Avoid sitting too long on the toilet

Don’t strain while passing stool

Stay physically active

Use moist wipes instead of dry toilet paper

Maintain a healthy weight

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When to See a Doctor

Seek medical attention if:

Bleeding is heavy or frequent

Pain is severe

There’s no improvement after using home remedies

You notice unusual lumps or changes

Ignoring severe symptoms can lead to complications like anemia, infection, or strangulated hemorrhoids.

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Myths and Facts About Piles

Myth: Only old people get piles

Fact: Piles can affect people of any age, especially those with poor bowel habits.

Myth: Spicy food causes piles

Fact: Spicy food may irritate existing hemorrhoids but doesn’t directly cause them.

Myth: Surgery is the only cure

Fact: Most cases are managed with lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments.

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Final Thoughts

Piles may be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but they are treatable and preventable. With early diagnosis and proper care, most people recover without complications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, good bowel habits, and a fiber-rich diet are the keys to keeping piles away for good.

If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t hesitate to consult a healthcare provider. Early treatment can prevent unnecessary pain and reduce the need for invasive procedures.

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Tags: #PilesTreatment #Hemorrhoids #HomeRemedies #HealthyBowel #FiberDiet #MedicalAdvice #DigestiveHealth