Piles are also known as hemorrhoids. These symptoms are primarily caused by swollen and inflamed veins and tissues. It consists of swollen, inflamed tissues with enlarged capillaries near or inside the bottom of the anal canal. Piles come in many sizes and can be found within and beyond the anus. Individuals typically begin experiencing piles symptoms by the age of 45 to 50.
The condition is most common in adults between the ages of 45 and 65 and includes two types of piles:
- Located above the opening of the anus, these piles are denoted as internal piles
- The external piles of an anus generally comprise the areas outside and close to the sting.
It is common for a person to experience internal piles of both types. Generally, piles are caused by digestive disorders such as chronic diarrhea, chronic constipation, overweight, heavy lifting, pregnancy, and increased abdominal pressure.
Symptoms of piles
In many cases, there are no symptoms associated with piles. As a result, many people are unaware that they need piles treatment. Symptoms do not always present themselves and are sometimes not serious. Symptoms and signs of piles vary depending on the type of hemorrhoid.
There are several symptoms associated with piles, including the following:
- Easily infected
- Swelling around the anus
- A discharge of mucous from the anus
- Anal itchiness or irritation
- Lumps around the anus
- Bloody stool leakage
- Anemia is caused by excessive bleeding.
- Bright red bleeding from the anus
- Painful swelling around the anus
- Discomfort and pain during bowel movements
In general, these are the symptoms associated with piles, although the severity varies from person to person. The patient may be able to overcome the condition on their own after a couple of days without the need for medical treatment. However, patients with piles are advised to change their lifestyles and maintain proper hygiene and health. Occasionally, doctors may recommend surgery for piles treatment.
Severity of piles
Piles can be classified into four grades as outlined below:
- Grade I: Inflammation is present in small areas, usually inside the anus lining, and is typically not visible to the naked eye.
- Grade II: These piles are larger than those of grade I and remain within the anus. They may be pushed out with stools, but they will eventually return on their own.
- Grade III: These hemorrhoids sometimes appear outside the anus and are also known as prolapsed hemorrhoids. They may feel as though they are hanging from the rectum. However, can be easily reinserted.
- Grade IV: These cannot be reinserted due to their large size; therefore, treatment is required.
Causes of piles
There is an increase in pressure in the lower rectum that causes piles. As a result of the stretching of the blood vessels, swells or bulges may form within the anus and the rectum. It may be caused by:
- Constipation that has become chronic
- Lifting heavy loads
- Straining when passing stools
- Chronic diarrhea
- Pregnancy
It is important to note that piles are also inherited and tend to increase as one ages.
Treatment for piles
As part of internal piles treatment, a doctor may administer certain tests, such as a rectal exam using a proctoscope. The doctor can view the anal canal in greater detail using this equipment. In addition, obtaining a small tissue sample from inside the rectum for laboratory evaluation is possible.
In addition, a colonoscopy may be recommended by the doctor. Surgical intervention might be necessary if the patient with piles exhibits signs and symptoms of another digestive system condition. A colonoscopy will be recommended for patients at risk for colorectal cancer or to rule it out.
Typically, most piles will resolve themselves without the need for piles treatment. Some treatments, however, can provide significant relief from the itching and discomfort caused by piles.
Changes in lifestyle
Initially, a doctor will recommend lifestyle changes to alleviate piles. The primary cause of piles is the straining that occurs during bowel movements. Constipation is often associated with excessive straining. Altering your diet suddenly may help you maintain regular and soft stools. You can achieve this by eating various fiber-rich foods, such as fruits and vegetables, or by eating cereals with bran predominantly in the morning.
The doctor can also advise the piles patient to increase their water intake. You can reduce piles symptoms by exercising regularly and avoiding straining while passing stools. Among the best treatments for piles is regular exercise.
The recommended diet for Piles patients
- The single most important thing to do to prevent or delay flare-ups of piles is to consume sufficient fiber
- Whole grains, such as legumes, are rich in nutrients.
- Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables
- Vegetables with roots
- Bell peppers
- Artichokes
- Squash
- Celery
In conclusion
Piles are an extremely uncomfortable and painful condition. Piles treatment is primarily surgery and is typically administered to patients with grade IV piles. Up to grade III, patients can treat their condition by themselves.
