What is Piles?

Overview

Haemorrhoids are another name for piles. Hemorrhoids are tissue masses, clumps, or cushions in the anal canal that are filled with blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibres. They are divided into two categories: internal and external.

Internal haemorrhoids are located deep within the rectum, where they are not visible or palpable. They usually do not hurt because of the pain-sensing nerves in the rectum. However, the only indication of their existence is bleeding.

External haemorrhoids are located within the anus and are frequently painful. You can see and feel an external haemorrhoid if it prolapses outside (usually while passing a stool).

What are the causes of piles?

Under pressure, the veins around your anus tend to stretch and may bulge or swell. Hemorrhoids can form as a result of increased pressure in the lower rectum caused by:

• Constant squeezing during bowel movements
• Sitting on the toilet for long periods
• Chronic Constipation or diarrhoea
• Being overweight or obese
• Being pregnant
• Engaging in anal intercourse
• Consuming a low-fiber diet
• Heavy lifting on a regular basis

What are the symptoms of Haemorrhoids/piles?

Unless internal haemorrhoids prolapse, they rarely cause pain (and are usually not felt). Many people who have internal haemorrhoids are unaware of their condition because they do not show any symptoms.

You may notice blood on toilet paper, in stool, or in the toilet bowl if you have internal haemorrhoids. These symptoms indicate rectal bleeding:

External haemorrhoids can be recognised by the following symptoms:

• An itchy anus.
• Hard lumps near the anus that are sore or tender to the touch.
• Anus pain or ache, especially when sitting.
• Bleeding in the rectum
• Hemorrhoids that have prolapsed can be painful and uncomfortable. You might be able to feel them bulging outside the anus and gently push them inside.

Piles/ Haemorrhoids treatment:

The best treatment for piles is to strictly adhere to your doctor's instructions given below at home, both before and after the surgical procedure.

• Remember to drink a lot of water
• Consume more fibre to keep your stools soft.
• To clean up after passing stool, soak your toilet paper in warm water for a few minutes.
• Take acetaminophen if your piles hurt.
• You can also take a warm shower to relieve itching and pain.
• If the piles are coming out of your anus, gently put them back with your finger.
• To relieve pain, wrap an ice pack in a towel.
• Maintain personal hygiene while using the restroom/washroom/toilet, and keep your parts dry and clean.
• Regular exercise can be beneficial.
• Alcohol and caffeine drinks can aggravate constipation.
• After you've finished passing the stool, practise wiping it gently.
• If you feel the need to use the toilet, go ahead and do so.
• Make an effort not to force your gut out while forcing the stool out.
• Constipation can be caused by codeine-containing medications. Stay away from them.
• If you have had bleeding piles, you should avoid taking ibuprofen.
• Do not use the toilet for an extended period of time.

Surgery for Piles

Haemorrhoidectomy (open pile surgery): In this procedure, the excess tissue that is causing bleeding is surgically removed. It may include a local anaesthetic and sedation, a spinal anaesthetic, or a general anaesthetic. This type of surgery is effective in completely removing piles, but it can cause pain for a few days.

MIPH (Minimally Invasive Procedure for Hemorrhoids): This technique performs surgery using a stapler. It is relatively painless and can be performed as a day care procedure. The vessels at the base of haemorrhoids or piles are stapled and divided high up in the anal canal during this procedure. The external piles are drawn in. The benefits of this procedure include:

• Postoperative discomfort is minimal.
• Reduced hospital stay
• Recovery time is reduced, and patients can resume normal activities more quickly.
• Excellent cosmetic results