बवासीर को हेमरॉइड्स के रूप में भी जाना जाता है, ये गुदा नहर वाले हिस्से में सूजी हुई नसें हैं। अपनी सामान्य अवस्था में, वे मल के मार्ग को नियंत्रित करने के लिए आरामदायक गद्दे की तरह से काम करती हैं। हालांकि बवासीर का सही कारण मालूम नहीं है, लेकिन अध्ययनों से पता चला है कि बवासीर के लिए बहुत हद तक जिम्मेदार वे कारक होते हैं जो मल त्यागने के दौरान गुदा वाले हिस्से में दबाव बढ़ाते हैं।
बैठते या मल त्याग करते समय गुदा वाले हिस्से में जलन जैसे लक्षणों से पीड़ित व्यक्ति को समस्या की पहचान कराने के लिए डॉक्टर से परामर्श लेना चाहिए। डॉक्टर द्वारा बताए गए उपचार का पालन करें। डॉक्टर की लिखी दवाओं या सर्जरी के साथ-साथ, आपको एक स्वस्थ जीवन शैली और आहार का पालन करने के लिए कहा जाएगा। शुरुआती उपायों में पूरे शरीर में पानी की भरपूर मात्रा बनाए रखने के लिए फाइबर का सेवन बढ़ाना, आराम करना और भरपूर तरल पदार्थ पीना शामिल है। समस्या वाले हिस्से में मेडिकेटिड क्रीम लगाई जा सकती है, हालांकि आपकी स्थिति की गंभीरता के आधार पर उनके असर में अंतर हो सकता है।
बवासीर का सही-सही कारण अभी भी मालूम नहीं है। हालांकि यह पता लगाना मुश्किल है कि बवासीर का सटीक कारण क्या है, लेकिन कई कारक हैं जो बवासीर में योगदान कर सकते हैं:
अन्य कारक जो बवासीर होने में समान रूप से योगदान कर सकते हैं वे ये हो सकते हैं:
Read in English: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
ऊपर बताए गए बवासीर के लक्षणों में से कोई भी लक्षण दिखाई देने पर आपको बिना देरी किए डॉक्टर की सलाह लेनी चाहिए। ये लक्षण कोलोरेक्टल कैंसर जैसी अन्य गंभीर स्थितियों में आम हैं। इसलिए, एक डॉक्टर से इनकी जल्दी पहचान कराना ज़रूरी है। अपने डॉक्टर को सूचित करें अगर- :
उत्तर. बहुत सारे तरल पदार्थ पीना और फाइबर युक्त आहार लेना, खुजली और दर्द को शांत करने के लिए कुनकुने पानी से नहाना, डॉक्टर द्वारा लिखे गए टॉपिकल ऑइंटमेंट लगाना, व्यायाम करना और नीचे वाले भागों को सूखा रखना, ये सभी बवासीर से तेज़ी से राहत पाने में आपकी मदद करने के लिए एक कैटेलिस्ट के तौर पर काम करेंगे। डॉक्टर से परामर्श करना और उनके बताए इलाज का पालन करना ज़रूरी है।
उत्तर. अगर आपको बवासीर के लक्षण दिखाई देने लगे हैं, तो घर और बाहर के खाने में दूध और पनीर जैसे डेयरी प्रोडक्ट, मैदा, प्रोसेस्ड मीट, तला हुआ भोजन, मसालेदार खाद्य पदार्थ और लाल मांस के इस्तेमाल से बचना चाहिए। कहने का मतलब यह है, कि ऐसे भोजन से बचना चाहिए जो सूजन और कब्ज़ की संभावना को बढ़ाते हैं।
उत्तर. आपके रोग के कारणों को ध्यान में रखते हुए, आपके डॉक्टर आपकी स्थिति के आधार पर बवासीर के लिए सबसे सही दवाएं आपको लिखकर देंगे। इसमें सूजी हुई नसों को सिकोड़ने के लिए कुछ दवाएं, कुछ दर्द निवारक और कब्ज़ जैसी पाचन संबंधी समस्याओं का प्रबंधन करने के लिए दवाएं शामिल हो सकती हैं।
उत्तर. हां, बवासीर में दर्द और खुजली दोनों हो सकती हैं। बवासीर, गुदा और मलाशय के निचले हिस्से में सूजी हुई और फूली हुई नसें होती हैं। पारंपरिक तौर पर, बवासीर की समस्या शौचालय में लंबे समय तक बैठे रहने के साथ-साथ मल त्याग के दौरान ज़ोर लगाने के साथ जुड़ी हुई है। यह गर्भावस्था के दौरान भी आम है और आमतौर पर बच्चे के जन्म के बाद ठीक हो जाती है।
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
External haemorrhoids are a common condition affecting the general population. In India, haemorrhoids are known to affect nearly 40 million people, the true incidence remains unknown because of a tendency to self-medicate and not seek proper consultation. Haemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged veins in the anal region, that can be internal or external haemorrhoids. After the age of 45-65, both sexes have an equal risk of haemorrhoids. The number of deaths reported with haemorrhoids is low but it can have a high impact on quality of life.1
Following are the signs noticed by the doctor in people with external haemorrhoids:
Following are the symptoms that you may experience if you have an external haemorrhoid:
Consulting a proctologist is a must as sometimes removing external hemorrhoids can lead to very large amounts of bleeding which is dangerous.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
If you have any of the above complaints, you should seek an expert opinion.
Increased intra-abdominal pressure due to chronic constipation may exert pressure on the tissues present in the anal canal, resulting in swelling and enlargement of the veins.2
External hemorrhoids may develop an inflammation and may recur if left untreated or treated improperly, consultation with a physician is very crucial in such scenarios.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Also Read: How to Stop Itchy Anus at Night: Effective, Research-Backed Solutions
Your doctor will take a detailed history and thorough physical examination to confirm piles. Physical examination may help reveal a tender, purplish nodule, skin tags which are suggestive of an external haemorrhoid. To rule out other causes of bleeding, your doctor may do a digital rectal examination.
Your physician will observe you in a prone-jack knife position. This will require you to sleep in a prone position i.e. sleep on your stomach with your head and legs lowered while your hips will be elevated for examining the rectal region.
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
Treatment of external haemorrhoids includes conservative management which includes dietary and lifestyle modifications, behavioral changes and local treatments. The basic goal is to avoid constipation and thus straining and pressure associated with stools. Following are the general recommendations:
Moderate exercises like yoga, brisk walking, swimming for 20-30 minutes a day to help improve bowel function and keep your bowel smooth. Avoid sitting immediately after having food.
If conservative management does not help for treatment of haemorrhoids, non-operative procedures may be recommended by your doctor. If still the symptoms do not resolve, surgical excision of the haemorrhoids may be needed.
Although many medicines are available over-the-counter in medical stores, you should not self-medicate, it is not safe to treat external haemorrhoids at home. You should avoid external haemorrhoids cure at home and consult your doctor for proper management of haemorrhoids.
Read More: What is the Cost of Piles Surgery in India?
External hemorrhoids are a type of hemorrhoid that develops outside the anus, usually under the skin around the anal opening. They occur when the veins in the anal area become swollen and inflamed, causing bleeding, pain, and itching. It is best to consult a doctor for proper treatment of piles and avoid self-medication.
Haemorrhoids which are found on the outside skin near the anal region are called as external haemorrhoids.1
Although, conservative management of external haemorrhoids at home is recommended by doctors, it is always best to consult a doctor to assess the severity of the condition and treat it accordingly.
Pain with bowel movements, itching and burning sensation near the rectum and anal region, bleeding associated with the bowel movements, ulceration near the anal region and reduced appetite are the symptoms of external haemorrhoid.2
For external haemorrhoids, many different local treatment options are available which include sitz bath, use of ice-packs for topical application etc.3,5
There is no such treatment which will help you to cure or remove haemorrhoids in one day at home. Hence, you should consult a doctor at the earliest stage when you experience any complaints or symptoms which have been discussed above already and get them treated at the earliest.
References:
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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Piles or haemorrhoids are a common condition but can be an embarrassing and unpleasant topic. They are characterised by swollen and enlarged veins present in the anal area causing a great deal of discomfort. In India, piles are known to affect nearly 40 million people but the true incidence is not known due to cultural and socio-economic reasons. Depending upon their location, piles can be internal (found inside the rectal region) or external (found on the skin near the anal region). Depending upon the appearance and whether the haemorrhoids prolapse (bulge out of the rectum) or not, internal haemorrhoids are further classified into four stages. The different stages of piles are described as below:
Following are the symptoms of piles starting stage:
If you have any of the above complaints, you should seek proper consultation from your doctor or proctologist for proper management of early-stage piles symptoms.
In the early stages of piles, it is believed that advancing age may cause the supporting tissues in the anal canal to become weak and chronic constipation may exert pressure on the tissues in the anal canal resulting in the piles.2
Also Read: What is a Sitz Bath: Understanding the Benefits and Uses
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
If still the symptoms do not resolve, surgical excision of the piles may be needed.
Read More: What is the Cost of Piles Surgery in India?
Piles or hemorrhoids are a common condition characterised by swollen and enlarged veins present in the anal canal. Depending on the location, piles are classified as internal or external haemorrhoids. Internal haemorrhoids depending on their severity are again classified into different stages like I, II, III, and IV. During the early stages of piles (grade I), the management starts with conservative measures that include avoiding constipation by dietary and behavioral recommendations, exercises, topical medications, and oral medications.
The starting stage of piles or Grade I is characterised by piles associated with bleeding which do not prolapse.1
Piles fourth stage is characterised by permanently prolapsed haemorrhoids which cannot be corrected.1
Piles initial stages symptoms may be associated with bleeding stools, itching, and pain, burning sensation in the anal region.1
Although many homeopathic medicines are available in the market for symptomatic relief from piles. It is best to buy a preparation after consulting with your doctor or proctologist.5
Yes, during the early stages of piles (grade I), appropriate conservative management which includes avoiding constipation by dietary and behavioral recommendations, exercises, topical medications, and oral medications may help. Hence, you should consult a doctor at the earliest stage.
Disclaimer
The information provided at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by any healthcare professional. As per unique individual needs, the reader should consult his/her physician to determine the appropriateness of the information provided for his/her situation.
References:
During pregnancy, along with other physical changes, piles can be an additional problem. Gojnic et al. in 2005 stated that approximately 85% of pregnant women in their third trimester may report haemorrhoids. In India, piles are known to affect nearly 40 million people, but the true occurrence in pregnant women is unknown due to cultural, personal and socio-economic reasons. Piles or haemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged veins in the anal and rectal region. Depending upon their location, piles can be internal (inside the rectal region) or external (near the anal region). Depending upon the appearance and whether the haemorrhoids prolapse or not, internal haemorrhoids are further classified into four types or grades- Grade I, II, III and IV. In this blog we will discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment options available for managing piles during pregnancy.1-3
Acute hemorrhoidal crisis can occur in the pregnant female. When medical therapy fails to relieve pain, operative intervention may be necessary. The surgeon, however, may be reluctant to operate due to potential complications to the mother and fetus. Hemorrhoidectomy in selected pregnant patients is safe in our experience.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Haemorrhoids in pregnancy are usually seen in the third trimester of pregnancy or after one-two days of delivery. Following are the symptoms of piles during pregnancy:
It is best not to avoid the management of piles during pregnancy as they may complicate the situation with bleeding, anaemia and excessive pain.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
As your uterus gets enlarged during pregnancy, the pressure it exerts on the veins in the anal and rectal region can cause them to swell resulting in piles. In addition, the hormone progesterone relaxes the smooth muscles of the intestine and causes a reduction in their motility which results in constipation which is considered as a risk factor for piles.
Sitz bath is often one the very useful and commonly recommended measures to pregnant women suffering from piles. Talk to your doctor in case of extreme discomfort and do not let the pain stress you during pregnancy.
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)
Also Read: What is a Sitz Bath: Understanding the Benefits and Uses
Hemorrhoidectomies, are not the preferred option for taking care of hemorrhoids during pregnancy. However, this type of surgery is possible and not very uncommon during pregnancy or shortly after, in case medical or other interventions are not of much help.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
You should give a detailed medical history which will help the physician rule out these other causes of bleeding like inflammatory bowel disease, colorectal polyps and colon carcinoma.
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
If you are wondering how to treat piles in pregnancy, find out important points below. In pregnancy, the management of piles starts with conservative management which is described below:
having a sedentary lifestyle, not exercising or actively doing any activities may increase the risk of piles. Sitting on a cushion instead of hard surface may also prevent worsening of existing haemorrhoids and formation of new ones. You should do moderate aerobic exercises like brisk walking for 20-30 minutes a day to improve bowel function. At the same time, avoid exercises or yoga which may cause exertion.
If still you have complaints of constipation, you can consult your physician and he may prescribe you stool softeners for the same.
Medications should only be taken after consultation from a doctor. Many ayurvedic medicines for piles during pregnancy are available in the market, but you should never self-medicate.6
If conservative management does not help in piles treatment during pregnancy, the following procedures may be recommended by your doctor.6
If still the symptoms do not resolve, surgical excision of the piles may be needed in some women.
Read More: What is the Cost of Piles Surgery in India?
Pregnant women due to increased intra-abdominal pressure, constipation and hormonal changes are predisposed to piles. The management of piles starts with dietary and behavioral recommendations, exercises, topical and oral medications. If still conservative management is ineffective, minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy and infrared photocoagulation may be done after consulting with a doctor or proctologist. If still there is no relief, surgical excision of piles may be required.
Also Read: Headaches During Pregnancy: Causes, Remedies, and When To Seek Help
Frequently Asked Questions
An increase in intra-abdominal pressure, hormonal changes and constipation during pregnancy may result in piles.1
It is advised not to self medicate and consult a doctor for proper guidance.
Piles during pregnancy may be associated with bleeding stools, itching and pain, burning sensation in the anal region.4
Yes, ointments are available in the market for topical application for symptomatic relief from piles in pregnancy. It is best to buy a preparation after consulting with your doctor or proctologist.5
You should avoid fried food, chocolates, salty food and caffeinated beverages during pregnancy piles.2
Disclaimer
The information provided at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by any healthcare professional. As per unique individual needs, the reader should consult his/her physician to determine the appropriateness of the information provided for his/her situation.
References:
Rubber band ligation is a non-surgical procedure used in the treatment of piles that don’t respond to conservative management (dietary and lifestyle modifications). Piles or haemorrhoids are swollen and enlarged veins appearing like a pillow like cluster near the lowest part of anorectal region. Depending on their location, there are two kinds of haemorrhoids- internal (found inside the lower rectum) and external haemorrhoids (found beneath the skin around the anus).
Depending upon the degree and severity of symptoms, there are different treatment modalities available for managing hemorrhoids ranging from dietary and lifestyle modifications to surgeries. One such treatment is the haemorrhoid rubber band ligation in which the haemorrhoid is tied off with a rubber band, which helps in cutting the blood flow to the haemorrhoid. This technique was performed for the first time by Blaisdel in 1950s.1-3
Hemorrhoidectomy surgery is used for more advanced hemorrhoids, while rubber band litigation for hemorrhoids may be used for less severe hemorrhoids without the side effects of surgery.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Your doctor will take a detailed history and do a thorough physical examination to confirm hemorrhoids. External hemorrhoids are generally visible upon examination especially if a blood clot is present. For internal hemorrhoids, he may do a digital rectal examination.
Depending upon the type of hemorrhoid and the severity, your doctor will decide the need for rubber band ligation.1
Rubber band ligation for piles is indicated in the following situations:2
Surgery like laser surgery and stapled hemorrhoidectomy may be recommended for external piles if conservative treatments like sitz bath or topical ointments fail to provide relief or if the condition becomes severe. Rubber band ligation can quickly be done under local anesthesia for most patients.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Before going to the hospital for piles rubber band ligation, you should be aware of the following:
Rubber band ligation does not require any anaesthesia or any injections for bowel clearance. This procedure does not need hospitalisation and is usually carried out in a single session and hardly takes 10-30 minutes; although in cases of recurrent haemorrhoids, additional sessions may be needed.3,4
Read More: What is the Cost of Piles Surgery in India?
Following are the common measures to do for symptomatic relief and avoiding the recurrence of the disease.
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
Performing rubber band ligation is contraindicated in the following: 3
Rubber band ligation is a treatment modality to manage piles. In this, the haemorrhoid is tied off with a rubber band, preventing the blood flow to the haemorrhoid. This process does not need anaesthesia, bowel clearance or hospitalization but can result in anal discomfort and pain. Your doctor or proctologist will assess the need of the procedure and weigh its benefits against the risks involved and will counsel you in detail about rubber band ligation aftercare.
Rubber band ligation is a non-surgical procedure in which the haemorrhoid is tied off with a rubber band, that helps in cutting the blood flow to the haemorrhoid.1
Yes, rubber band ligation is associated with post-procedural pain, for which your doctor will prescribe painkillers.3
Rubber band ligation procedure is quick and hardly takes 10-30 minutes for completion.4
Rubber band ligation is contraindicated in Crohn’s disease and HIV disease.3
Rubber band ligation may increase the risk of urinary retention, bleeding, ulceration and pain in the anal region.2
Disclaimer
The information provided at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by any healthcare professional. As per unique individual needs, the reader should consult his/her physician to determine the appropriateness of the information provided for his/her situation.
References:
Haemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of haemorrhoids, commonly called piles. Haemorrhoids are a condition characterised by swollen veins in the anal and rectal region. Depending upon the location of haemorrhoids, these can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (around the anal opening. Haemorrhoids are managed using both non-surgical and surgical treatment along with lifestyle modifications. Usually, haemorrhoids which are recurrent, prolapsed (falling outside the rectum) and the ones which require reduction (shrinkage of haemorrhoidal mass) are often surgically removed by haemorrhoidectomy.1
Your doctor will take a detailed history and do a thorough physical examination before diagnosing haemorrhoids. He may do a digital rectal examination and a few imaging tests. Depending upon the type of haemorrhoid and the severity, he/she will decide the need for surgical excision of the haemorrhoid.1,2
Following are the indications for haemorrhoidectomy:1
Thrombosed haemorrhoids in which a blood clot is formed inside the haemorrhoid.2
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
In this section, we will look at the different types, procedures, available for haemorrhoidectomy:
Before performing haemorrhoidectomy, you will be given an enema for bowel clearance. It should not be painful but will make you little uneasy and uncomfortable. Haemorrhoidectomy procedures are carried out after anaesthetizing the patient with local anesthesia. The surgery procedure is usually carried out in prone jack-knife position, which requires you to lie on your stomach on a table which is flexed at 90 degrees. Your head and body will be lowered and your hips will be raised.1
The duration of hospital stay for stapled haemorrhoidectomy is one day; whereas conventional haemorrhoidectomy may require hospitalization for 6-7 days and the duration of laser surgery is short and requires no hospitalisation. As haemorrhoidectomy may require immobilization temporarily, you should always go to the hospital along with a family member or caretaker.5
Post-operative medications:
Read More: What is the Cost of Piles Surgery in India?
Read More: 8 Best Home Remedies For Piles
Haemorrhoidectomy is contraindicated in the following conditions: 1
Read More: Patient Experiences Before & After Piles Surgery
Haemorrhoids or piles can be managed using different treatment modalities. The surgical excision of haemorrhoids is called as haemorrhoidectomy. Different types include conventional haemorrhoidectomy (open and close), laser, LigaSure, cryosurgical, stapled haemorrhoidectomy, etc. Each type has its own benefits and risks. Your doctor or proctologist will assess the need of the surgery and weigh the benefits against the risks involved.
Haemorrhoidectomy is the surgical removal of haemorrhoids.
Yes, haemorrhoidectomy is associated with post-operative pain; but you need to worry your doctor will prescribe painkillers for managing pain.3
The different types of haemorrhoidectomy including open, closed , laser , LigaSure , stapled , cryosurgical , harmonic ultrasonic scalpel, clamp and cautery , submucosal, whitehead’s circumferential, bipolar diathermy LigaSure and Starion haemorrhoidectomy types.4
Haemorrhoidectomy is contraindicated in uncontrolled bleeding disorders, portal hypertension, Ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease, faecal incontinence (not able to control bowel movements) or any medical condition which makes the patient unable to undergo anesthesia.1
Haemorrhoidectomy may increase the risk of urinary retention, pain, thrombosed haemorrhoid and bleeding.1
The information provided at this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by any healthcare professional. As per unique individual needs, the reader should consult his/her physician to determine the appropriateness of the information provided for his/her situation.
What Is Piles?
Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swelling of enlarged blood vessels around the anal area. It is a painful condition, the first signs include straining and blood loss while passing stools and discomfort while sitting, walking and other movements. Piles can be internal and form within the rectum or they can be external and protrude beyond the anus.
What is Fistula?
An anal fistula is a tunnel which forms in an infected gland of the anus, it extends till the opening around the anus. It can be a result of an injury or surgery and cause pain and inflammation around the anus.
Table of Differences between Piles and Fistula
| Different Factors | Piles | Fistula |
| Causes | If you put excess pressure or strain the veins around your anus during bowel movements, it may swell. Some other causes of this condition are: Straining during bowel movementsSevere diarrhoea ObesityRegular heavy lifting Pregnancy | Fistula may develop due to: An infection in the anal gland Abscess around anal region TraumaRadiation therapy or treatment of anal cancer |
| Symptoms | Imaging tests like MRI, CT Scan or Fistulogram to identify the path of the fistula. Other tests include a fistula probe, anoscope, flexible sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy. | Itching or irritation in the anal area Bleeding during bowel movements Pain/discomfort while passing hard stools Discomfort while prolonged sitting or standing up |
| Diagnosis | Digital or clinical examination of the rectum is done by inserting a lubricated finger and looking for any unusual swellings. Visual inspection of the lower portion of your colon and rectum with an anoscope, proctoscope or sigmoidoscope. | Medicines for local application Sitz bath A fistulotomy is done by removing the fistula along with it’s linning, cleaning it and allowing it to heal. Fibrin glue and collagen plug to clean and seal the tunnel. Seton placement into the fistula to drain the infection and contents inside the tunnel. Endorectal advancement flap uses a flap from the rectal wall to cover the fistula. LIFT is a two-stage treatment in which the fistula tunnel is opened, then the infected tissues are removed and the fistula is tied off. |
| Treatment options that can be advised by doctors | Medicines for local application Soak the anal area in warm water or a sitz bath. Rubber band ligation is done by using rubber bands around the base of an internal haemorrhoid to cut off its blood circulation. Injection (sclerotherapy) is done to shrink the tissues in the haemorrhoid. Haemorrhoid removal (hemorrhoidectomy) to remove excessive tissue that causes bleedingHaemorrhoid stapling to block blood flow to haemorrhoidal tissue | Medicines for local application Sitz bath A fistulotomy is done by removing the fistula along with its linning, cleaning it and allowing it to heal. Fibrin glue and collagen plug to clean and seal the tunnel. Seton placement into the fistula to drain the infection and contents inside the tunnel. The endorectal advancement flap uses a flap from the rectal wall to cover the fistula. LIFT is a two-stage treatment in which the fistula tunnel is opened, then the infected tissues are removed and the fistula is tied off. |
| Prevalence | Piles is very common in adults. Women are more prone to developing haemorrhoids than men. | Anal fistulas commonly develop around the age of 40. It affects males more than females. |
| Complications if left untreated- | Anemia. Chronic blood loss due to piles may lead to anaemia. Strangulated haemorrhoid. If the blood supply to an internal haemorrhoid is cut off, the tissue may get severely infected and can cause extreme pain. Blood clot. Occasionally, a clot can also form in a haemorrhoid due to a lack of blood flow (thrombosed haemorrhoid). It can be extremely painful. | A recurring fistula or an abscessIncrease in the length and number of tracts Inability to control bowel movements (fecal incontinence). Sepsis or infection that spreads throughout the body Peritonitis. An intestinal fistula may cause inflammation and infection of the peritoneum (membrane lining the abdominal cavity). There is a risk of developing cancer in the fistula tract if left untreated for a long period of time. |
In simple terms Piles is a condition in which blood vessels swell up, whereas a fistula is marked by the development of a tunnel from the anus to surrounding skin.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Piles and fistula are two distinct conditions. However, it is possible for you to get confused between the two and their symptoms. If you ignore the symptoms of piles, such as pain, itching in the anal area, blood in stools and the symptoms of fistula, such as blood and foul-smelling discharge, pain in the rectum, swelling in the anal area and visibility of a tunnel at the opening of the anus, both the conditions may worsen over time and cause other complications. Consult a doctor to learn more about the difference between piles and fistula and seek appropriate treatment. Never self-medicate, proper diagnosis of your condition is the first step towards living a pain-free life.
Fissures, piles and fistula are often confused as being the same conditions in an individual. Fissures usually heal on their own within a couple of days or weeks. Piles and fistulas usually require medical or surgical intervention.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Piles or haemorrhoids are swollen blood vessels around the anal opening. It can cause pain, blood loss with stools and discomfort while sitting, walking and other movements. Piles can either be internal and form within the rectum, or they can be external and protrude beyond the anus.
As you age, piles are more frequent. I strongly recommend the following actions that may aid in avoiding constipation and hard stools that results in piles: Avoid using the loo for too long or too firmly. When the desire strikes, use the loo right away; don’t wait. Drink a lot of water all day long. Increase your intake of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, and other high-fibre meals. Continue to be active. Bowels continue to move when you’re moving. Only take laxatives or enemas as directed by your healthcare professional. Your body may struggle to control your bowel movements if you use laxatives or enemas too frequently.
Dr. Smita barode, BAMS
Fissure is a small tear in the soft tissue lining of the anus. It occurs mainly due to the passing of hard stools and can cause significant pain and bleeding during bowel movements. Anal fissures are common in young infants but may affect people of any age.
While you have symptoms of fissures, I recommend you increase your water intake, increase the amount of fresh produce you eat and stay away from spicy foods and beverages.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
| Different Factors | Piles | Fissure |
| Causes | Due to excess pressure or strain, the veins around your anus may stretch and swell. Piles may develop due to: > Obesity > Regular heavy lifting > Pregnancy > Constipation > Diarrhoea | The rare causes of anal fissures include: > Passing Hard stools > Anal intercourse > Crohn’s disease or any inflammatory bowel disease. > Tuberculosis. > Syphilis. |
| Symptoms | > Itching or irritation in the anal area > Bleeding during bowel movements > Pain/discomfort while passing stools > Discomfort while prolonged sitting or standing up | > Pain during bowel movements and after, lasting up to several hours > A visible crack around the anus > Blood on stools or toilet paper after wiping the anus |
| Diagnosis | > Digital examination or clinical examination by inserting a lubricated finger into your rectum and looking for any unusual swellings. | > Physical examination to check for the cut or tear, which is often visible around the anal opening. |
| Treatment options that can be advised by doctors | > Medicines for local application > Soak the anal area in warm water or a sitz bath. > Rubber band ligation is done by using rubber bands around the base of an internal haemorrhoid to cut off its blood circulation. > Injection (sclerotherapy) is done to shrink the tissues in the haemorrhoid. > Haemorrhoid removal (hemorrhoidectomy) to remove excessive tissue that causes bleeding > Haemorrhoid stapling to block blood flow to haemorrhoidal tissue > Laser surgery for piles | > Externally applied medications can be prescribed. > Deep and chronic fissures usually require surgical treatment. – Surgery for a fissure is known as lateral internal sphincterotomy (LIS), in which a small part of the anal sphincter muscle is cut to reduce spasm and pain. > Laser suregry for anal fissures |
| Prevalence | Piles is very common in adults. Women are more prone to developing haemorrhoids than men. | Anal fissures are more common in young infants |
| Complications | > Anaemia – Chronic blood loss due to piles may lead to anaemia. > Strangulated haemorrhoid – If the blood supply to an internal haemorrhoid is cut off, the tissue may get severely infected and can cause extreme pain. > Blood clot – Occasionally, a clot can also form in a haemorrhoid due to a lack of blood flow (thrombosed haemorrhoid). It can be extremely painful. | > Failure to heal within eight weeks means it is considered chronic and needs further treatment. > Recurrence you are prone to having fissures if you had it previously. > A tear that extends to the surrounding muscles. It delays the healing of anal fissures, which causes discomfort and may require medicines or surgery. |
From my knowledge, fissures are the most typical cause of anal discomfort despite piles being more prevalent. Even while piles may not always hurt, 90% of fissures do. However, piles may provide persistent pain and agony, yet fissures often cause bouts of pain at times.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
It is possible to confuse the two conditions, namely piles and fissures, as their symptoms are very similar. If you do not seek timely treatment, your condition may worsen over time. It is important to understand the difference between piles and fissures, so get yourself diagnosed by a certified doctor or proctologist if you experience pain or discomfort or notice blood in your stools and other symptoms. Prompt treatment will ensure that you are pain-free and there are no serious complications. Never self-medicate if you suffer from either of these two conditions.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Piles or haemorrhoids are a medical condition that causes the veins around your rectum and lower anus to swell. Symptoms of Piles include pain and discomfort during and after passing stools while sitting and standing up, painful lumps in and around the anus and bloody stools.
Piles can be both internal and external. Internal piles cannot always be diagnosed during the external examination, however, they sometimes may protrude out of the anus region as in the case of external haemorrhoids. Pile is a disease that is not exactly rare, however, the symptoms can sometimes be easily missed as they are not always detectable and obvious. With surgery, Piles can be removed. However, if your condition is not severe, your doctor may recommend some medicines, lifestyle and dietary changes that will help you cope with the condition. This article will shed light on the types of food you should eat to deal with Piles more effectively.
Did you know that hemorrhoids are a common condition affecting both men and women? Surprisingly, more than half of adults over the age of 50 experience hemorrhoids at some point in their lives.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
Piles are a rather painful condition that causes discomfort when you are sitting or even standing. Fortunately, several food items can help reduce the risk factors of Piles (constipation, bloating and other digestive issues) from occurring in the first place:
Legumes: By making sure you are getting enough fibre in your diet daily, you can reduce the chances of piles flare-ups. There are essentially two kinds of fibre that can be derived from food – soluble and insoluble. The soluble fibre forms a gel in your digestive tract and can be digested by friendly bacteria. On the other hand, insoluble fibre helps bulk up your stool. Legumes include beans, lentils, peas, soybeans, peanuts and chickpeas that are loaded with both kinds of fibre but are especially rich in the soluble type. Lentils and other legumes can bulk up your stool, making it less likely that you have to strain when going to the bathroom.
Cruciferous vegetables like Broccoli: Vegetables like cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, broccoli, bok choy, kale, arugula, tulips, cabbage and radishes are known for having an immense amount of insoluble fibre. Cruciferous vegetables like these contain a plant chemical called glucosinolate that can easily be broken down by gut bacteria, thus promoting easy stool passing and reducing symptoms of a new flare-up of piles.
Root vegetables: Turnips, beets, rutabagas, carrots, sweet potatoes and potatoes are root vegetables. They keep you full for a long time and are extremely nutritious. Besides, they are full of gut-friendly fibre. For example, cooked and cooled white potatoes contain a kind of carbohydrate known as resistant starch, which passes through your digestive tract undigested. Similar to soluble fibre, they help feed your gut bacteria and pass stool easily.
Bell peppers: Packed with vitamins like vitamin C and minerals, bell peppers are also a great option while adding fibre to your diet. A cup of mild bell peppers contains about 2 grams of fibre. With a water content of about 93%, bell peppers are also very hydrating and help with clear stool passing.
Whole grains: Similar to legumes, whole grains are a nutritional powerhouse as they retain their germ, bran and endosperm, all of which are loaded with fibre content. Whole grains are known to be rich in insoluble fibre. The benefit of insoluble fibre is that, since they cannot be digested, they add volume to your stool and help you excrete with ease, with less pain and discomfort that comes with piles. Spelt, quinoa, barley, brown rice, oats, whole rye and corn are some beneficial whole grains. For example, you can prepare and consume oatmeal to reduce symptoms of piles. Oatmeal contains a special soluble fibre called beta-glucan, which benefits your gut microbiome by acting like a prebiotic, which in turn feeds the healthy gut bacteria and helps you excrete with ease.
Squash: This vegetable brings life and colour to your plate, while also feeding you with an immense amount of fibre. There are various kinds of squash like pumpkin, acorn squash, yellow squash, butternut squash and zucchini. Acorn squash has the highest amount of fibre, about 9 grams in every cup of this vegetable (205 grams). Sautéed, roasted or boiled squashes may help ward off any symptoms of piles.
Bananas: They are an ideal addition to your diet to calm piles symptoms. Loaded with pectin and resistant starch, a single banana provides an average of 3 grams of fibre. The combination of pectin and resistant starch helps in clearing stool easily.
Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain loads of fibre optic and have good water content. It aids in easing symptoms of constipation by making you strain less while passing bowels. Tomatoes contain a natural antioxidant called naringenin that, according to some scientists, has a laxative effect on constipation.
Citrus fruits: Fruits like oranges, lemons and grapes are rich in vitamin C. The inner skin of these fruits beneath the outer layer has a lot of fibre. Citric fruits have ample water content that softens stools. Like tomatoes, citrus fruits also contain naringenin, a natural compound that has a laxative effect.
Based on the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, it is recommended that you consume an adequate amount of dietary fiber for optimal health. For a 2,000-calorie diet, this means aiming for around 28 grams of fiber per day.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
All food items that are low in fibre should be avoided. Some of them are as follows:
2. Barley soup with carrots
3. Wholesome fruit salad
4. Gluten-free high fibre salad
Thus, with proper care, good food, discomfort, pain and inflammation caused by piles can be curbed and reduced while avoiding controversial food items. Depending on the severity of your condition, along with medication and a good diet, you should be able to overcome your condition in a few weeks to a few months.
Also Read: Brown Egg Vs White Eggs: Decoding Nutritional Facts and Myths
Adding a variety of fruits and vegetables like kale, pumpkin, bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, apple, raspberries, banana, cucumber, melon, pear and can help you with easy stool passing, as they are rich in fibre. Root vegetables like sweet potato, carrot and beetroots help as well.
In general, less severe piles conditions go away in a few days on their own with a well-balanced diet or with over-the-counter drugs. Larger haemorrhoids, particularly ones that cause a lot of pain, swelling and itchiness, will not go away on their own and may require treatment from a doctor to heal, like medication or may have to be surgically removed.
Consumption of eggs improves the movement of the intestines and helps in making the stool soft. Eating an egg daily gets rid of constipation and other stomach-related problems. Not only this, eggs contain a lot of protein and fat, which is beneficial for patients. Therefore, you can consume eggs in moderation if you have piles.
Papain present in raw papayas is beneficial to combat several health problems like excess of unhealthy mucus in the stomach, overcoming the deficiency of gastric juice, dyspepsia (indigestion) and intestinal irritation. The ripe fruit, if eaten regularly, corrects constipation, bleeding piles and chronic diarrhoea.
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Ageing has its own advantages and disadvantages. Included in the latter are piles, clinically known as haemorrhoids, which is a condition when veins in your rectum or under the skin around the anus swell. These swollen blood vessels can turn bowel movement into an intensely painful experience. According to research published in the year 2017 by The Indian Journal of Surgery, half the men and women in India above the age of 50 may develop the symptoms of haemorrhoids during their lifetime. Even though piles are rarely dangerous, if left ignored, they can lead to serious health complications. In this blog, let’s get a clear picture of the causes, types, symptoms and measures that can help prevent or cure haemorrhoids.
Piles can be grouped into four different categories or grades. They are as follows:
It is not established yet what actually causes the veins around your anus to swell and bulge, yet nearly two out of the four adults undergo the symptoms of haemorrhoids. Some of the common factors contributing to an increased risk of suffering from piles are constipation, sedentary lifestyle, bad diet, smoking and alcohol, family history, being pregnant or obese, regular heavy eating, and stress.
Haemorrhoids are classified into 4 different categories Internal, Prolapsed, External and Thrombosed.
The symptoms of piles subside on their own in a few days. However, in some cases, these must not be ignored. Since ignoring the initial symptoms can lead to serious complications, keep a check on these symptoms:
It is strongly suggested that if you are bleeding during defecation or your haemorrhoids don’t improve after a week of home care, consult a doctor.
The treatment for piles may vary depending on the type, degree of prolapse or the severity of the situation. However, these self-help tips may ease haemorrhoid pain and promote healing:
Drinking 2 litres of water daily reduces the risk of piles, as it helps to keep the stool soft.
Including fibre-rich foods in your diet tends to improve the overall symptoms and bleeding from haemorrhoids. A healthy diet should contain the recommended amount of 20-30 grams of fibre a day.
Rush towards the toilet when you feel the urge, don’t wait for a convenient time. Delaying or waiting putting on more pressure on the rectum veins, which can worsen constipation thus aggravating haemorrhoids.
Staying active prevents and eases constipation, thus reducing the pressure on the veins. It can also help you lose weight which is another major contributor to piles.
In case you feel your symptoms are worsening, consult a doctor immediately. Some over the counter medicines may give you temporary relief but for an effective treatment reach out to an expert medical practitioner.
Don’t force your bowel movement, pushing and straining can make haemorrhoids worse. If you are not relieved within 2 minutes then get up and try again later.
Someone with piles can take various medicines to allay the symptoms to a certain extent. Some of them include:
Around 10% of people with piles end up undertaking some form of surgery (1 in 10 people). Here are some of the surgical methods you can opt for as piles treatment:
We see that piles do not pose any great threat to your overall well-being and health. Patients can self-treat it up to grades III or IV, but if it becomes more serious then medical attention will be required. Nonetheless, the surgical options listed are quite efficient and have very little recovery time as well.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
