Piles, also commonly known as hemorrhoids, are one of the most widespread yet misunderstood medical conditions. While many suffer silently, few truly understand what piles are, why they occur, and how they can be effectively treated.
In this blog, we’ll explore piles in simple terms—focusing on the differences between internal and external hemorrhoids, common causes, symptoms, and available treatments. We’ll also highlight expert insights from Dr. Satveer Singh, a renowned proctologist at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home, where thousands have found relief from hemorrhoids through expert diagnosis and advanced treatment.
Understanding Piles: The Basics
Piles are swollen and inflamed veins located in the lower rectum and anus. They resemble varicose veins and can occur inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). These swollen veins result from increased pressure, often due to constipation, prolonged sitting, or straining during bowel movements.
While piles are not usually dangerous, they can cause pain, discomfort, and bleeding—and in severe cases, may require medical or surgical treatment.
Piles are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They may develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). hemorrhoids can be mild and unnoticeable or severe and painful, depending on the size, location, and complications.
Types of Piles: Internal vs. External
1. Internal Hemorrhoids
Location: These are located inside the rectum, which means they are usually not visible or felt.
Symptoms:
- Painless bleeding during bowel movements (bright red blood)
- Mucus discharge
- A feeling of incomplete evacuation
- Occasionally, they may protrude outside the anus ( prolapsed haemorrhoid ), causing discomfort
Severity:
Internal hemorrhoids are classified into grades:
- Grade I – No prolapse, only bleeding
- Grade II – Prolapse during straining, but return on their own
- Grade III – Prolapse that requires manual pushing back
- Grade IV – Permanently prolapsed and often painful
2. External Hemorrhoids
Location: These are found under the skin around the anus and can often be seen or felt as lumps.
Symptoms:
- Pain or discomfort, especially while sitting
- Swelling and itching
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- A hard lump if a blood clot (thrombosis) forms inside the hemorrhoids
Severity:
External piles can be extremely painful if thrombosed but are generally easier to detect and treat early due to visible symptoms.
What Causes Piles?
hemorrhoids develop when the veins around the anus and rectum are under excessive pressure. Common causes include:
- Chronic constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- Prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Low-fibre diet
- Sedentary lifestyle
- Genetic predisposition
Symptoms of Piles
Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others might face severe discomfort. Common signs of hemorrhoids include:
- Bright red blood after bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort, especially while sitting
- Swelling around the anus
- A lump near the anus (may be sensitive or painful)
- Mucus discharge
If you experience any of these symptoms persistently, it’s crucial to seek medical help to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions like anal fissures or colorectal cancer.
How Are Piles Diagnosed?
A physical examination by a medical professional is usually enough to diagnose external piles. For internal piles, your doctor may perform:
- Digital Rectal Examination (DRE): A gloved, lubricated finger is inserted into the rectum to feel for abnormalities.
- Proctoscopy/Anoscopy: A small device is used to view the inside of the anal canal.
- Colonoscopy or Sigmoidoscopy: Recommended if there is significant bleeding, or if other conditions need to be ruled out.
At Srihari Krishan Nursing Home, patients benefit from accurate diagnosis, thanks to state-of-the-art equipment and the clinical acumen of the best laparoscopic surgeon in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand Dr. Satveer Singh.
Treatment Options: From Conservative to Surgical
1. Home & Lifestyle Remedies
- Increase dietary fibre (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink 8-10 glasses of water daily
- Avoid straining during bowel movements
- Use sitz baths to soothe irritation
- Apply over-the-counter creams or ointments
2. Non-Surgical Treatments
- Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is placed around the base of internal hemorrhoids to cut off blood flow, causing them to shrink.
- Sclerotherapy: A chemical solution is injected to shrink the hemorrhoid.
- Infrared coagulation (IRC): Uses heat to coagulate the tissue, leading to shrinkage.
3. Surgical Options
- Haemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of hemorrhoids, usually for large, prolapsed ones.
- Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: Used for internal piles; reduces blood flow and pulls the hemorrhoids back into place.
- Laser Surgery: A minimally invasive, modern technique that offers:
- Faster recovery
- Minimal pain and bleeding
- No cuts or stitches
Dr. Satveer Singh specializes in laser surgery for hemorrhoids at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home, making it a preferred choice for patients looking for quick, effective, and safe treatment.
Benefits of Laser Treatment for Piles
Laser surgery is quickly becoming the gold standard in piles treatment due to its effectiveness and patient comfort. Here’s why it’s gaining popularity:
- Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge)
- Less postoperative pain
- Minimal blood loss
- Quicker return to daily activities
- Lower recurrence rates
Many patients at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home report significant relief and satisfaction following laser treatment under the best laparoscopic surgeon in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand Dr. Satveer Singh’s care.
When Should You See a Doctor?
While mild hemorrhoids can often be managed at home with dietary changes and topical treatments, you should consult a doctor if:
- You experience consistent bleeding during or after bowel movements
- Pain becomes intense and unmanageable
- You feel a lump or swelling that doesn’t go away
- Home remedies aren’t providing relief
This is where expertise plays a crucial role. If you’re looking for compassionate, expert care in North India, the best laparoscopic surgeon in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, Dr. Satveer Singh at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home has become a trusted name in the field. With years of experience in treating both internal and external hemorrhoids, he offers both traditional and modern solutions tailored to each patient’s needs.
Prevention Tips: Small Changes, Big Results
Piles are largely preventable. Here’s how:
- Eat high-fibre foods
- Stay hydrated
- Exercise regularly
- Respond promptly to bowel urges
- Avoid prolonged sitting
- Maintain healthy body weight
These small daily habits go a long way in preventing both internal and external hemorrhoids.
Why Choose Srihari Krishan Nursing Home?
When it comes to treating piles, especially in their painful or persistent stages, expert guidance is crucial. At Srihari Krishan Nursing Home, patients receive not just clinical treatment but also emotional support and education.
Dr. Satveer Singh, with his patient-first approach and advanced surgical expertise, has helped countless individuals overcome the discomfort of piles and regain normalcy in their lives.
Whether you’re dealing with early symptoms or long-term hemorrhoids that haven’t responded to treatment, this is a safe and trusted place to begin your healing journey.
Role of Dr. Satveer Singh in Piles Treatment
If you’re suffering from piles and looking for a compassionate and skilled medical professional, the best laparoscopic surgeon in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, Dr. Satveer Singh is a name you can trust. With years of experience in proctology and general surgery, Dr. Singh has helped countless patients overcome the pain and discomfort of piles with the latest and most effective treatment methods.
He is particularly known for his expertise in laser treatment for piles, which is a minimally invasive procedure offering fast relief, minimal pain, and shorter recovery times. Dr. Singh ensures that each patient receives personalized care, starting from diagnosis to complete recovery.
Conclusion
Piles may be common, but they don’t have to be a permanent burden. With the right knowledge, lifestyle adjustments, and access to expert care like that of the best laparoscopic surgeon in Hazaribagh, Jharkhand, Dr. Satveer Singh at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home, piles can be effectively managed and even permanently cured.
Don’t suffer in silence. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of piles, take the first step toward relief today.
Myths and Facts about Piles
Myth 1: Only old people get piles.
Fact: Piles can affect people of all ages, even those in their 20s or 30s.
Myth 2: Spicy food causes piles.
Fact: Spicy food may irritate symptoms but doesn’t directly cause piles. Constipation and straining are the real culprits.
Myth 3: Surgery is the only option.
Fact: Many cases can be treated without surgery if caught early.
Myth 4: Piles always bleed.
Fact: Some types of piles, especially external ones, may not cause any bleeding at all.
Top 10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Piles
1. What are piles?
Answer:
Piles (also called hemorrhoids) are swollen veins in the anus or rectum, similar to varicose veins. They can cause discomfort, itching, pain, or bleeding during bowel movements.
2. What causes piles?
Answer:
Piles are commonly caused by:
- Chronic constipation or straining
- Sitting too long on the toilet
- A low-fibre diet
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Prolonged sitting or standing
- Family history
3. What are the symptoms of piles?
Answer:
Common symptoms include:
- Bright red bleeding during bowel movements
- Pain or discomfort near the anus
- Itching or irritation
- A lump or swelling near the anus
- Mucus discharge
4. Are piles dangerous or life-threatening?
Answer:
No, piles are not life-threatening. However, if left untreated, they can cause complications like severe bleeding, anaemia, or thrombosis (clot formation).
5. Can piles be cured permanently?
Answer:
Yes. With lifestyle changes, medication, and, if needed, surgical or laser treatments, piles can be permanently cured. Early diagnosis improves outcomes.
6. How are piles diagnosed?
Answer:
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Physical examination
- Digital rectal exam
- Proctoscopy or anoscopy
- Colonoscopy (in case of unusual symptoms or heavy bleeding)
7. What is the best treatment for piles?
Answer:
Treatment depends on the severity:
- Mild cases: Diet changes, medications, and sitz baths
- Moderate cases: Rubber band ligation or Sclerotherapy
- Severe or recurring cases: Surgical or laser treatment, such as those offered by Dr. Satveer Singh at Srihari Krishan Nursing Home
8. Is laser surgery for piles safe and effective?
Answer :
Yes. Laser surgery is a modern, minimally invasive treatment that offers:
- Less pain
- Faster recovery
- Minimal bleeding
- High success rate
- It is a preferred choice by many proctologists today.
9. Can piles go away on their own?
Answer:
Mild cases may improve with lifestyle changes and home care, but more severe piles usually require medical or surgical treatment to avoid recurrence.
10. How can I prevent piles?
Answer:
- Eat a high-fibre diet
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid straining during bowel movements
- Exercise regularly
- Don’t delay going to the toilet
- Maintain a healthy weight.