What are Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort, bleeding and itching. They can occur internally (inside the rectum) or externally (under the skin around the anus). Piles are a common condition and can affect people of all ages, especially those with sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, or chronic constipation.
Types of Piles:
- Internal Hemorrhoids: Located inside the rectum, they are usually painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- External Hemorrhoids: These form under the skin around the anus and can cause pain, swelling and irritation.
- Thrombosed Hemorrhoids: A type of external hemorrhoid where blood clots form, leading to severe pain, swelling and inflammation.
What are common causes of Piles / Hemorrhoids?
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet
- Low-fiber diet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Aging
- Family history of hemorrhoids
What are signs and symptoms of Piles / Hemorrhoids?
- Bright red blood during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation in the anal region
- Pain or discomfort while sitting
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful
- Mucus discharge during defecation
How are Piles / Hemorrhoids diagnosed?
Piles are diagnosed through a physical examination and if needed, proctoscopy or colonoscopy. Early diagnosis is essential to rule out more serious conditions like colorectal cancer.
How can Piles / Hemorrhoids be Treated?
Treatment for piles depends on the type, severity, and underlying cause of the condition. While mild cases can often be managed with lifestyle changes and home remedies, more severe or persistent hemorrhoids may require medical or surgical intervention. From modern laser procedures to traditional Ayurvedic therapies, there are multiple safe and effective treatment options available today. Early diagnosis and personalized care are key to relieving symptoms, preventing complications and improving quality of life.
Ayurvedic treatment for Piles
- Kshar Sutra Therapy - A minimally invasive Ayurvedic procedure where a medicated thread is tied around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. This leads to the painless and controlled removal of the pile mass.
- Basti (Medicated Enema) - A specialized Panchakarma therapy that uses herbal oils and decoctions to cleanse the colon and reduce inflammation, especially effective for chronic constipation and Vata imbalance.
- Herbal Remedies - Arshoghni Vati, Triphala, Abhayarishta and Haritaki are commonly used to regulate bowel movements, reduce inflammation and improve digestion.
- Dietary & Lifestyle Changes (Pathya-Apathya)
Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Rubber band ligation – Cuts off blood supply to the hemorrhoid
- Sclerotherapy – Injection to shrink the hemorrhoid
- Infrared coagulation – Laser or infrared light to shrink the tissue
Surgical Treatment for Piles
- Hemorrhoidectomy – Complete removal of hemorrhoids
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy – A less painful alternative with faster recovery
- Laser surgery – A modern, minimally invasive option with faster healing