What Are Piles? Symptoms, Causes, and Treatments


What Are Piles?


Introduction

You've probably heard of piles, but do you know what they are? Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common problem that can cause a lot of pain and discomfort.

If you're experiencing symptoms like pain, itching, or bleeding, it's important to seek treatment right away. In many cases, piles can be treated with over-the-counter medications or natural remedies. However, if the problem is more severe, you may need surgery.

In this article, we'll discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatments for piles. We'll also cover some home remedies that you can try to get relief from the pain and discomfort.

What Are Piles?

You've probably heard of piles before, but what are they exactly?

Piles are basically swollen veins that can develop around the anus. They're usually caused by straining when you go to the bathroom, and while they're not typically dangerous, they can be uncomfortable and embarrassing.

The good news is that there are a number of treatments available for piles, ranging from over-the-counter remedies to surgery. 

So if you're experiencing any symptoms such as itching, bleeding, or pain talk to your doctor about what options are available to you.

What Are the Symptoms of Piles?

The most common symptoms of piles are discomfort, pain, and itchiness around the anus. You might also see blood on your toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.

What Causes Piles?

You may be wondering what causes piles. Well, there are a few things that can contribute to this condition.

One of the main causes is straining during a bowel movement. This can be the result of constipation, diarrhea, or anything else that puts pressure on the veins in the rectum. Pregnancy is also a common cause, as the weight of the baby puts added pressure on these veins.

External hemorrhoids are caused by excessive friction or rubbing against the skin, which can happen if you sit for a long period of time on the toilet. 

This type of hemorrhoid is also more common in people who are overweight or have a job that requires them to be seated for long periods of time.


Who Is at Risk for Piles?

So who is at risk for piles? Unfortunately, just about anyone can get them. Although they are more common in older adults, they can happen at any age.

Piles are caused by a number of things, including obesity, pregnancy, and prolonged sitting. They can also be the result of heavy lifting or straining during bowel movements. And if you have a family history of piles, then you're more likely to get them yourself.


How Can I Treat Piles?

If you're dealing with piles, you're not alone. It's a common problem, and there are a few different ways to treat it.

One popular treatment is surgery. This is where the hemorrhoid is removed surgically. However, it's a pretty invasive procedure, and it can be expensive.

There are also a few noninvasive treatments available, such as banding and cinching. With banding, a small band is placed around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off the blood supply. 

This makes the hemorrhoid shrink and eventually fall off. Cinching is similar, but a special device is used to compress the hemorrhoid.

Another popular treatment is injections. A chemical is injected into the hemorrhoid to cause it to shrink. 


And finally, there's also the option of home remedies. There are a number of different home remedies available, but they vary in terms of effectiveness.

Are There Any Home Remedies for Piles?

You may be wondering if there are any home remedies for piles. The answer is yes, there are a few things you can do to help relieve the symptoms.

One is to apply a cold compress to the area. This will help reduce inflammation and swelling. Another is to eat a high-fiber diet. This will help soften your stools and make them easier to pass.

Finally, you can try using a topical cream or ointment that contains witch hazel or hydrocortisone. Just be sure to speak with your doctor before trying any of these remedies, especially if they are prescription strength.

Conclusion

You may have heard of piles before, but what are they, exactly? Piles are essentially a build-up of blood vessels in the anal canal. They can be caused by a variety of things, from pregnancy to eating the wrong foods, and can cause a range of painful symptoms.

Luckily, there are a number of treatments for piles, both surgery and nonsurgical. It's important to see your doctor if you're experiencing any symptoms so you can get the treatment that's best for you.