What are Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Piles, originally known as Haemorrhoids, are a medical condition characterized by the swelling of veins in the lower rectum and the anus. The veins are twisted and swollen, restricting the conventional blood flow in the anus and rectum. Even though it is very difficult to actually ascertain the cause of Piles, the occurrence of this condition can be due to multiple reasons.
The most common causes of Piles range from straining the veins at the time of being pregnant to additional pressure being applied on the veins during a bowel movement. This condition can occur internally or on the surface of the skin, depending on the cause and effect of the reason behind the occurrence of this condition.
Piles are a very common condition and are said to affect 3 out of 4 adults multiple times during their life. Symptoms of the disease are often spotted amongst patients before they even reach the age of 50. The symptoms of Piles may be minimal or very evident, depending on the severity of the situation. In a basic situation, a patient usually feels a little discomfort. While in a more serious situation such as thrombosed Hemorrhoid, there may be the formation of blood clots which can cause excruciating pain. There are various treatments for this disease. Piles are not a very dangerous medical condition that can usually be treated by making changes in the lifestyle or by easy home remedies which cause relief to the patient.
What are The Types of Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
The Piles disease can be divided into 4 different classifications based on the location, symptoms, and side- effects caused by their occurrence.
- Internal Haemorrhoids
- External Haemorrhoids
- Thrombosed External Haemorrhoids
- Prolapsed Haemorrhoids
1) Internal Haemorrhoids
This condition is the least restrictive type of Piles. The symptoms of this Piles condition arise inside the rectum and are found on the border that divides the upper part of the anal canal from the lower of the rectum. Internal Piles don’t cause too much discomfort to the patient as they are enclosed in an external lining called mucosa, which protects it from causing pain to the patient. This is because the mucosa is insensitive to temperature, touch, stretching, or pain.
On the basis of the level of the protrusion, internal Hemorrhoids or internal Piles can be classified into 4 levels-
- Grade I: It is possible to bleed during this stage as the Haemorrhoids are noticeable but they don’t poke into the anal canal.
- Grade II: At this Piles stage, the Hemorrhoids protrude momentarily outside the anal canal during a bowel movement, but shift back inside after the movement.
- Grade III: In this Piles stage, any pressure or exertion causes the Hemorrhoids to protrude outside the anal canal. Fingers need to be used to push the Haemorrhoids back in the anal canal.
- Grade IV: Hemorrhoids have fallen out of the anal canal remain outside the rectum in this stage. They cannot be pushed back in and thus are quite uncomfortable.
2) External Haemorrhoids
This type of Hemorrhoids is also known as a perianal hematoma. The side effects of this Piles condition are usually bluish in color feel painful and lumpy and are noticeable under the skin around the outer part of the anus. This type of hemorrhoid is similar in nature to the above described prolapsed internal Hemorrhoids. External Hemorrhoids may lead to additional skin tags at the verge of the anus, which may feel very uncomfortable to the patient. This happens due to the fact that these Haemorrhoids are covered by normal skin which causes discomfort.
The occurrence of these skin tags is caused by the clot of blood formed due to stretching of the overlying skin.
3) Thrombosed External Haemorrhoids
Thrombosed external Hemorrhoids occur due to the formation of a clot in various small veins which causes pain and discomfort to the patient. This type of Haemorrhoids is characterized by the presence of a painful and hard lump in the anus. The main cause of this type of Piles is the excessive stretching of the skin which covers the Hemorrhoid. This causes the splitting of the vein, making it inflamed and cutting off the blood supply in it.
4) Prolapsed Haemorrhoids
This is a type of Hemorrhoids that have fallen out of the anal canal. The most common symptoms of prolapsed Hemorrhoids are bleeding in the stool, toilet, or on the toilet paper. Most patients with this condition experience a feeling of not being able to completely pass stool. Prolapsed Hemorrhoids can be quite painful because of the presence of nerves in them which can easily sense pain. Pain can arise in prolapsed Haemorrhoids because of the pain-sensing nerves within them. Other possible causes of pain are –
- Swelling with hemorrhoid or abnormal accumulation of fluid in the Hemorrhoid
- Blood clot formation or thrombosis
- Obstructed supply of blood in the Hemorrhoid
- Overstretching of Hemorrhoid caused by external pressure
What are the symptoms of Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
The warning signs and common symptoms of Haemorrhoids are listed below:
- Irritation or itching near the anal region
- Pain and bleeding during bowel movements
- Swelling in the anal region
- Lump near the anus which is painful and uncomfortable
- Painless bleeding
The various types of Haemorrhoids or Piles have specific symptoms depending on the location of their occurrence:
- Internal Haemorrhoids or Internal Piles
These Hemorrhoids usually do not carry any specific symptoms which can be noticed by the patient. Excess straining of this type of Hemorrhoids can lead to damage on the surface or minor bleeding. In case internal Hemorrhoid passes through the anal canal, it becomes a prolapsed Hemorrhoid which may be painful.
- External Haemorrhoids or External Piles
In case of application of pressure or external strain, these Hemorrhoids can bleed or cause itching and discomfort.
- Thrombosed Haemorrhoids or Thrombosed Piles
This type of Haemorrhoids is characterized by the formation of a blood clot in the anal region. This blood clot causes swelling, severe pain, inflammation, or a hard lump near the anus.
How is Piles (Haemorrhoids) diagnosed?
Since there are multiple types of Piles or Hemorrhoids, they are all diagnosed differently.
Internal Hemorrhoids can be diagnosed in the following ways-
- Digital rectal exam- This exam is done by the method of inserting a gloved and lubricated finger in the patient’s anus in order to identify any abnormalities. In case of any additional growth or abnormal diagnosis, the additional examination is prescribed.
- Sigmoidoscopy- This physical exam is done by inserting a really tiny fiber-optic camera in the rectum. This allows the physician to check the surface for Haemorrhoids.
- Proctoscopy- The physician inserts a hollow tube with a light at the end of the rectum in order to clearly review the anal canal and a large part of the large intestine.
- Anoscopy- This procedure entails the insertion of an anoscope in the anus in order to examine the anal region for Hemorrhoids. An anoscope is generally made of stainless steel or plastic.
- Colonoscopy- This is a procedure in which a colonoscope is inserted in the anus and slowly moved around the colon area. This apparatus has a light source and camera attached to it which enables the physician to check for Haemorrhoids.
This procedure may be additionally prescribed if the physician suspects any of the following situations in people who might have-
- Any other disease related to digestive system
- Signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer
- Are over the age of 50, and have never undergone a rectal examination
External Hemorrhoids or external Piles can be identified by a physician by simply undertaking a physical exam and visual notice.
What are Causes of Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Veins have a tendency to swell up or bulge on the application of increased pressure.
The various causes for swelling up of the veins, causing Hemorrhoids or Piles are-
- The excessive strain caused by pressure applied during a bowel movement
- Sitting on the toilet bowl for too long
- Constipation, Diarrhea or some other digestive system related problem
- Pregnancy
- Anal intercourse
- Low- Fiber Diet
- Obesity
People over the age of 50 are more susceptible to Hemorrhoids becomes over time, the veins in the anus and rectum that support their functioning tend to get overstretched or weak.
Prevention from Piles (Haemorrhoids):
The most appropriate way to avoid getting Hemorrhoids is to ensure that the stool to be passed by the anus is soft so that it passes easily.
Other than this, to prevent and reduce the occurrence of the symptoms of Piles or Hemorrhoids, the following steps can be followed.
- Eating high fiber food- Consuming more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains increases the fiber content in the body. This fiber ensures that the stool is soft and is easy to pass through the anus. This helps in avoiding a situation of application of additional pressure during a bowel movement.
- Drinking plenty of fluids- It is essential for everyone to consume at least 6- 8 glasses of water and juices in order to maintain the proper procedure of the body functions. This also ensures that the stool remains soft.
- Taking fiber supplements- The average recommended intake of fiber for males is 38 grams and for females is 25 grams. Most population is unable to fulfill the daily requirement of recommended fiber intake. This substantially affects the functioning of the digestive system as well as the consistency of the stool passed by a person. In order to maintain the proper functioning of the digestive system and produce soft stools.
- Not applying pressure- Most people have the tendency to hold their breath and apply strain while passing stool. This often causes a buildup of pressure in the veins of the lower rectum. Go as soon as you feel the urge. If you wait to pass a bowel movement and the urge goes away, your stool could become dry and be harder to pass.
- Following the urge- It is very important to go to the washroom to pass the stool as soon as the urge arises. In case the urge goes away, the stool becomes harder to pass.
- Exercising- Being active is a quintessential requirement for a healthy body. Being active and exercising helps in avoiding constipation and to reduce pressure on veins.
- Avoiding sitting in one place for a long time- sitting in one place for a long times puts added pressure on the anus, thus contributing to the occurrence of Piles or Hemorrhoids.
What are Home Remedies for Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
The mild swelling, inflammation, and pain caused by hemorrhoids can be relieved or reduced by the use of simple home remedies and changes in food habits.
A few of these home remedies for Piles or Haemorrhoids are mentioned below-
- Eating a high fiber diet
- Using tropical treatment
- Soaking regularly in warm water
- Keeping the anal area clean
- Avoiding the using of dry toilet paper
- Applying cold water
- Taking oral pain relievers
The symptoms of Haemorrhoids generally subside within a week of following the above-stated remedies.
How do Doctor would do treatment for Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
- In case of minor discomfort and pain, a physician generally prescribes an over- the- counter cream, ointment, pad or suppository. Ingredients present in these medicines namely witch hazel, lidocaine and hydrocortisone help in relieving pain and discomfort. It is not advised to use this over-the-counter, steroid containing, cream for more than 7 days in case symptoms of Piles or Hemorrhoid do not subside.
- External Hemorrhoid thrombectomy is a procedure undertaken by a physician in order to treat a painful blood clot formed in external Hemorrhoid. This is a very simple procedure and includes only making an incision in the clot and draining it to provide instant relief to the patient.
- In case of constant bleeding and major discomfort caused due to Haemorrhoids, a physician may suggest one of many minimally invasive procedures available for treatment.
- Rubber band ligation
- Injection (sclerotherapy)
- Coagulation (infrared, laser or bipolar)
What is Surgical Procedures for Piles (Haemorrhoids):
In case all other procedures are unable to treat the disease, the doctor may recommend surgical treatment. A few of the most commonly performed surgical treatments are mentioned below-
- Hemorrhoid removal
- Hemorrhoidectomy
- Hemorrhoid stapling
What are Risk Factors Related to Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Although Haemorrhoids can affect anyone, there are a few things that make a person more vulnerable to contracting this disease.
A few of these situations are-
- Alcoholism
- Severe heart disease or liver disease
- Obesity
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Lack of physical activity
- Anal intercourse
- Diet low in fiber (high fiber foods include whole grain foods, fresh fruits, and vegetables)
- Diet high in fat
- Jobs that require sitting or standing for long periods
- Loss of tone of the pelvic floor muscle due to childbirth, age, pregnancy or surgery
What are the complications due to Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Complications relating to Hemorrhoids are very rare but may arise. The less commonly occurring but probable complications for patients with Hemorrhoids are-
- Strangulated Hemorrhoid- This situation causes extreme pain to the patient suffering from Piles or Haemorrhoids. This arises when the blood supply to the Hemorrhoid is cut off.
- Anemia- As it has been inferred that various types of Haemorrhoids have a tendency to cause extensive blood loss, it may lead to anemia if left unattended. Anemia is a condition in which the production of healthy red blood cells is not adequate.
What are Common Myths Related To Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Myth #1: Elderly people are the only ones who can get Hemorrhoids.
Reality- Haemorrhoids can affect people of any age. Although it is a stated fact that people between the age group of 45 to 60 are more susceptible to this disease, it can affect a person of any age.
Myth #2: Eating spicy foods can cause Haemorrhoids.
Reality- Hemorrhoids are caused due to excessive pressure on the veins near the anus and rectum, causing them to swell and even bleed a few instances. Eating spicy food does not have anything to do with the occurrence of this disease.
Myth #3: The composition of the food being consumed does not affect Haemorrhoids.
Reality- Constipation is one of the main causes behind developing Haemorrhoids. It is quintessential to include fiber and water/ other fluids in the diet in order to have a soft bowel moment. This enables a person to avoid being susceptible to constipation and thus steer clear of being affected by Hemorrhoids.
Myth #4: Surgery is the most common treatment for Piles or Haemorrhoids.
Reality- Symptoms of this disease usually subside by making a few changes in the lifestyle as well as by using home remedies. Depending on the severity of the situation, a physician often prescribes a few over-the-counter medicines and ointments to relieve pain and help the symptoms subside. It should be noted that surgery is the least common treatment for Haemorrhoids.
Myth #5: Haemorrhoids causes cancer.
Reality- There is no evidence to associate colon cancer with Haemorrhoids. Even though they have similar symptoms such as rectal bleeding, they can easily be differentiated by a physician on examination.
Myth #6: Once a person gets Haemorrhoids, it will be a recurring problem for them.
Reality- People may develop Haemorrhoids for a temporary duration due to a situation such as pregnancy, childbirth, constipation, etc. Most available treatments of this condition are quite effective and are able to cure the problem fully. In case a person takes care of their diet and drinks a lot of fluid, they do not face this problem again.
Myth #7: Having Haemorrhoids or Piles is a reason for embarrassment.
Reality- By the time most people turn 50, they would have faced the problem of Piles at least once. In both men and women, the occurrence is common irrespective of their age and it is nothing to be embarrassed about.
Myth #8: Eating a lot of fiber eliminates the occurrence of Piles completely.
Reality- Although inculcating fibrous food in the diet may help in preventing the development of Haemorrhoids; it is not the only contributing factor to its occurrence. Long sitting, especially on the toilet, is also an influential factor in the occurrence of this condition. It is also advised to have at least eight glasses of water to ensure an easy bowel movement.
Myth #9: Haemorrhoids are difficult to treat.
Reality- There are multiple remedies available to treat both internal as well as external Haemorrhoids or external Piles.
All modes of treatment ranging from surgery to lifestyle change are effective and painless. Hemorrhoids that cause mild swelling, inflammation, and pain can easily be relieved or reduced by the use of simple home remedies such as eating a high fiber diet, drinking plenty of water, taking over-the-counter ointments and oral medication, etc.
Myth #10: Haemorrhoids or Piles can be caused by sitting on too hot or too cold surfaces.
Reality- The temperature of the surface you sit on does not affect cause Piles. A habit of sitting in one place, especially on the toilet, makes a person more susceptible to having Piles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1) What causes Hemorrhoids?
Ans: Various factors contribute to increasing the chances of getting Piles or Haemorrhoids. A few of these factors are chronic constipation, consuming less fiber, applying excessive pressure during a bowel movement, being overweight, having long sitting periods.
2) What is the general duration of Hemorrhoids?
Ans: Symptoms of Piles or Haemorrhoids generally subside within two weeks of treatment. It should be noted that the general healing duration depends on the type of Hemorrhoids.
3) Is having Hemorrhoids very painful?
Ans: Internal Piles or Hemorrhoids are not invasive and generally do not cause any pain or discomfort. In case of external Haemorrhoids can lead to itching, cracking of the skin, rectal bleeding, and discomfort. This experience can be extensively painful.
4) should I use Hemorrhoids cream or can I use coconut oil for treatment?
Ans: While home remedies such as coconut oil and argan oil can be used to treat Piles or Haemorrhoids, it is not advisable to use these in case of extreme conditions. Using a prescription medicine that is given by the doctor is the best solution one can opt for.
5) Do I need to make changes in my diet to get better?
Ans: It is possible to experience relief from the situation when one makes changes to their diet. The inclusion of fiber and more fluids in the diet enables a person to have easier bowel movements and smoother defecation.
6) Is rectal bleeding a warning sign for Hemorrhoids?
Ans: Depending on the intensity of the Haemorrhoids, moderate to heavy blood can be seen as a symptom. A doctor must be consulted immediately to ascertain the exact cause of the bleeding.
7) Can I exercise if I have Piles?
Ans: Regular exercise and maintaining a healthy lifestyle often reduce the risk of having Piles. In case you are already suffering from Piles, it is advisable to stay away from rigorous weight training which has the ability to further strain the veins of the rectum, making the situation worse. However, light exercises can be done.
8) Are Hemorrhoids always painful?
Ans: Internal Haemorrhoids generally have symptoms that are easy to miss as they do not cause any pain or inconvenience to the patient. Having Haemorrhoids is painful only if excessive strain is applied to the veins of the anus and the rectum.
9) How is cryotherapy used to cure Hemorrhoids or Piles?
Ans: Cryotherapy is a medical treatment that enables the doctor to freeze the Haemorrhoids. This causes the Hemorrhoids to shrink and heal faster.
10) What is a thrombosed Hemorrhoid and how can it be cured?
Ans: Thrombosis conventionally means clotting of blood. A thrombosed Hemorrhoids are a swollen skin tag that is caused due to clotting of blood under the skin. The bigger the size of the Hemorrhoid more is the pain inflicted on the patient. It is generally treated by the doctor by rupturing the surface under local anesthesia and cleaning it thoroughly.
