Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are a common condition that can affect people of any age, although they are more prevalent among adults aged 45 to 65. Despite being a widespread issue, many individuals feel uncomfortable discussing it, which often delays treatment and worsens the condition. With modern awareness and treatments available in cities like Pune and beyond, piles are now much easier to manage and cure.
What Are Piles?
piles doctor in pune piles occur when the blood vessels in the anal area become inflamed or swollen. They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus). In most cases, they are not dangerous, but they can be extremely uncomfortable and interfere with daily life.
Types of Piles
Internal Piles: These form inside the rectum and are usually painless due to the lack of pain-sensitive nerves. They may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
External Piles: These are located around the anus and can be painful, especially if a blood clot forms (thrombosed hemorrhoid).
Prolapsed Piles: When internal hemorrhoids push through the anal opening, they can become prolapsed, causing visible and sometimes painful bulges.
Common Symptoms
Bright red blood during or after bowel movements
Itching or irritation around the anal area
Pain or discomfort, especially while sitting
Swelling or lumps near the anus
A feeling of incomplete bowel movement
Mucus discharge
Not all symptoms necessarily indicate piles; similar signs may appear in other conditions such as anal fissures, infections, or even colorectal cancer. Hence, a proper diagnosis is essential.
Causes and Risk Factors
Several lifestyle and dietary factors contribute to the development of piles:
Chronic constipation or diarrhea: Straining during bowel movements increases pressure in the lower rectum.
Low-fiber diet: Diets lacking fiber can lead to hard stools, making it difficult to pass waste easily.
Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity affects digestion and bowel function.
Obesity: Excess weight puts pressure on the pelvic and rectal area.
Pregnancy: Hormonal changes and increased pressure on the rectum can lead to hemorrhoids.
Aging: Tissues supporting rectal veins weaken over time.
Prolonged sitting: Spending long hours on the toilet or desk jobs can contribute to the problem.
Preventive Measures
Piles can often be prevented or minimized through simple changes in lifestyle and diet:
Eat a high-fiber diet: Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to soften the stool.
Stay hydrated: Drinking 8–10 glasses of water daily helps digestion and stool formation.
Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity encourages healthy bowel movements.
Avoid straining: Do not force bowel movements or spend too much time on the toilet.
Respond to the urge: Don’t delay bowel movements when the urge arises.
Maintain good hygiene: Clean the anal area gently and avoid using dry or rough toilet paper.
Diagnosis
A medical professional can usually diagnose piles through a physical examination. Internal hemorrhoids may require a digital rectal exam or the use of instruments like an anoscope or proctoscope. In cases of rectal bleeding, additional tests might be recommended to rule out more serious conditions such as colon cancer or inflammatory bowel disease.
Treatment Options
Treatment for piles depends on their severity. Mild cases often improve with lifestyle changes and home remedies, while chronic or severe cases may need medical procedures.
1. Home Remedies and Lifestyle Changes
Warm Sitz baths: Sitting in warm water for 15–20 minutes can relieve discomfort.
Topical treatments: Over-the-counter creams and ointments containing hydrocortisone or witch hazel may help.
Cold compress: Applying an ice pack can reduce swelling.
High-fiber supplements: Products like psyllium husk can ease constipation.
2. Non-Surgical Treatments
Rubber band ligation: Bands are placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off circulation, causing it to shrink and fall off.
Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.
Infrared coagulation or laser therapy: These procedures use light or heat to shrink or destroy hemorrhoidal tissue.
3. Surgical Options
For persistent or severe piles, surgical intervention may be necessary:
Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids, generally used for large or prolapsed piles.
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy: This procedure repositions and staples the prolapsed tissue, cutting off blood flow and allowing it to shrink.
Recovery and Aftercare
Post-treatment care plays a crucial role in preventing recurrence. Doctors typically recommend:
Continuing a fiber-rich diet
Drinking plenty of fluids
Avoiding heavy lifting or strenuous activities
Taking prescribed medications to manage pain and inflammation
Following up regularly to monitor healing and prevent complications
Final Thoughts
Piles may be a common condition, but they can significantly impact your comfort and quality of life if left untreated. Thankfully, with greater awareness, early diagnosis, and a range of modern treatments, most cases can be managed effectively. Whether through natural remedies, non-invasive procedures, or surgery, relief is possible — especially when supported by timely medical guidance.
In cities like Pune, access to well-equipped healthcare facilities and experienced specialists ensures that piles treatment is more effective, patient-centered, and recovery-focused than ever before. Don’t ignore symptoms — prioritize your health and seek help when needed.
