Piles: Causes, Symptoms And How To Treat Them

Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are swollen blood vessels that develop inside or around the anus. It often happens because of excessive strain during your bowel movements or when you are constipated. While they often get better within a few days, they may also pester a patient for a long period and make it difficult for them to go to the loo. With time, this problem is seen both in older and younger generations.

Piles usually look like small, discoloured, round lumps that is felt on the anus or hanging down from the anal canal. It can happen due to constipation or chronic diarrhoea, old age, prolonged sitting on the toilet, persistent coughing, lifting heavy objects, and other factors. This disease is also common during pregnancy, but it usually gets better post-delivery.

There are four degrees of piles, and the fourth degree is the most painful, with lumps hanging down from the anus that can’t be pushed back in. If the blood inside them clots, they can become exceedingly painful.

According to experts, the main symptom of piles is bleeding when you poop, a lump in or around the anus, a feeling of fullness or discomfort in the anus, itchy or sore skin around the anus, and pain after you go to the washroom. As the problem increases, pain may also occur during bowel movements. Experts suggest that if any of these symptoms are noticed, one should immediately consult a doctor.

During the initial stage, piles are treated with medication, introducing some lifestyle changes. However, if the problem of piles reaches grade 4, it is treated with surgery.

Experts also claim that this disease can be avoided if the person follows the doctor’s instructions properly. It includes maintaining cleanliness and eating vegetables, fruits, and foods rich in fibre. Drinking lots of fluid every day is also important, but make sure you don’t consume too much caffeine. In addition to that, consumption of meat and high-fat foods, strong spices, and fast food should be avoided.

Other things to keep in mind are:

Those suffering from constipation should seek medical attention immediately.

One should never exert excessive force to pass stool.

Avoid sitting on the toilet for extended periods.

Weight management and frequent exercise are also recommended. Daily exercise is essential for maintaining good health and well-being.