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Dr Atul Deshpande | Piles Specialist | Ch. Sambhajinagar (Aurangabad), Maharashtra |
Understanding Piles (Hemorrhoids): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Understanding Piles (Hemorrhoids): Symptoms, Diagnosis & Treatment Options
Piles—medically known as hemorrhoids—are one of the most common yet most misunderstood conditions. Millions of people suffer silently due to embarrassment or fear of consulting a doctor. The truth is, piles are treatable, manageable and often preventable with timely medical care and lifestyle changes.
This guide will help you understand the symptoms, diagnosis process, treatment options, do’s and don’ts, and common myths about piles.
What Are Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
What Are Piles (Hemorrhoids)?
Piles are swollen veins in the lower rectum or anal region.
They can occur inside the anal canal (internal hemorrhoids) or outside around the anus (external hemorrhoids).
Most cases are mild, but in some, they can cause severe pain, bleeding, and discomfort during daily activities.
Common Symptoms
Common Symptoms
If you experience any of the following, you may be dealing with piles:
Bright red bleeding during or after passing stools
A lump or swelling near the anus
Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
Itching, irritation or burning sensation
Mucus discharge
Feeling of incomplete evacuation
A protruding mass that comes out while straining (prolapse)
These symptoms may also resemble fissures or fistulas, so proper diagnosis by a piles specialist is essential.
What Causes Piles?
What Causes Piles?
Several factors increase the risk:
Chronic constipation or hard stools
Long sitting time in the toilet
Low-fiber diet
Pregnancy
Obesity
Heavy lifting
Sedentary lifestyle
Genetic tendency
Understanding the cause helps in planning long-term recovery.
Treatment Options
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and severity.
Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
Lifestyle & Dietary Changes
Increase fiber intake
Drink plenty of water
Avoid straining
Regular exercise
Medications
Medications
Ointments
Soothing gels
Pain relievers
Stool softeners
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Minimally Invasive Procedures
Performed by a piles specialist:
Rubber Band Ligation
Sclerotherapy
Infrared coagulation
Laser Treatment for Piles
Laser Treatment for Piles
Laser therapy is one of the most advanced, painless and quick recovery options:
Minimal bleeding
No stitches
Short procedure time
Quick return to routine
Do’s
Do’s
✔ Eat high-fiber foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grains
✔ Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily
✔ Exercise regularly
✔ Use warm water Sitz baths for relief
✔ Visit a piles doctor early
Don’ts
Don’ts
✘ Don’t ignore rectal bleeding
✘ Don’t sit for long on the toilet
✘ Don’t eat too much oily, spicy or junk food
✘ Don’t lift very heavy weights
✘ Don’t self-medicate for long durations
When Should You See a Doctor?
When Should You See a Doctor?
Visit a specialist if you notice:
Repeated bleeding
Persistent pain
Prolapse
Difficulty in bowel movements
No improvement with home remedies
Early diagnosis ensures faster and easier treatment.
Piles are common—but suffering is not necessary.
Piles are common—but suffering is not necessary.
With modern treatments, experienced proctologists, and proper lifestyle guidance, you can recover quickly and prevent recurrence.
If you understand symptoms early and seek help promptly, you can avoid complications and unnecessary fear.
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