🔍 What is Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles, also known as Hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are similar to varicose veins and may develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).

🩺 Types of Hemorrhoids
Internal Hemorrhoids

Located inside the rectum

Usually painless but may bleed during bowel movements

May protrude (prolapse) outside the anus if severe

External Hemorrhoids

Found under the skin around the anus

Can cause pain, swelling, and itching

May develop clots (thrombosed hemorrhoids) causing intense pain

⚠️ Common Causes
Chronic constipation or diarrhea

Straining during bowel movements

Sitting for long periods on the toilet

Low-fiber diet

Obesity

Pregnancy (increased pressure on rectal veins)

Aging (weakened tissues)

🔎 Symptoms of Piles
Bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood)

Itching or irritation around the anal region

Pain or discomfort, especially while sitting

A lump near the anus (especially in external piles)

Mucus discharge or feeling of incomplete evacuation

🧑‍⚕️ Diagnosis
Physical examination for external hemorrhoids

Digital rectal exam (DRE) or proctoscopy for internal hemorrhoids

Additional tests may be needed to rule out other causes of rectal bleeding (like colon polyps or cancer)

💊 Treatment Options
1. Lifestyle and Home Remedies
High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)

Drinking plenty of fluids

Warm sitz baths

Avoiding straining during bowel movements

Regular exercise

2. Medications
Topical ointments, creams, or suppositories for relief

Pain relievers and stool softeners

3. Minimally Invasive Procedures
Rubber band ligation (cutting off blood supply)

Sclerotherapy (injecting a solution to shrink the hemorrhoid)

Infrared coagulation (burning the hemorrhoid tissue)

4. Surgical Treatment (Hemorrhoidectomy / Stapler Surgery)
Recommended for large, persistent, or thrombosed hemorrhoids

Laparoscopic or laser techniques available for faster recovery

✅ When to See a Doctor
Bleeding with stools

Severe pain or discomfort

Hemorrhoids that persist or recur frequently

Signs of infection or large prolapsed hemorrhoids