Piles are another term for hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They contain blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibres. The size of piles can vary and they are found inside or outside the anus. A person with piles may experience swollen collections of tissue in the anal area.
Symptoms
External hemorrhoids
- Itching or irritation in your anal region
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around your anus
- Bleeding
Internal hemorrhoids
Internal hemorrhoids lie inside the rectum. Painless bleeding during bowel movements. A hemorrhoid to push through the anal opening (prolapsed or protruding hemorrhoid), resulting in pain and irritation.
- A hard, possibly painful lump may be felt around the anus. It may contain coagulated blood.
- After passing a stool, a person with piles may experience the feeling that the bowels are still full.
- Bright red blood is visible after a bowel movement.
- The area around the anus is itchy, red, and sore.
- Pain occurs during the passing of a stool.
- excessive anal bleeding, also possibly leading to anaemia
- infection
- faecal incontinence, or an inability to control bowel movements
- anal fistula, in which a new channel is created between the surface of the skin near the anus and the inside of the anus
Piles are classified into four grades:
- Grade I: There are small inflammations, usually inside the lining of the anus. They are not visible.
- Grade II: Grade II piles are larger than grade I piles, but also remain inside the anus. They may get pushed out during the passing of stool, but they will return unaided.
- Grade III: These are also known as prolapsed hemorrhoids, and appear outside the anus. The individual may feel them hanging from the rectum, but they can be easily re-inserted.
- Grade IV: These cannot be pushed back in and need treatment. They are large and remain outside of the anus.
Causes
Piles are caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum.
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet
- Having chronic diarrhea or constipation
- Being obese
- Being pregnant
- Eating a low-fibre diet
- Regular heavy lifting
Prevention
- Eat high-fiber foods.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Consider fiber supplements
- Don’t strain.
- Go as soon as you feel the urge.
- Exercise.
Avoid long periods of sitting.