English

Dr. Kavita Varma

Consultant - General Surgery

Book Appointment

Subscribe to our blogs

Reviewed by

Dr. Kavita Varma

Consultant - General Surgery

Manipal Hospitals, Baner

What Causes Piles (Hemorrhoids)?

Reviewed by:

Dr. Kavita Varma

Posted On: Oct 08, 2024
blogs read 4 Min Read
Piles and Hemorrhoids

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum and anus. They can be internal or external. While the exact cause of piles is not always clear, several factors can contribute to their development. Continue reading this blog to read all the possible causes that may lead to piles, their types, symptoms that you must not ignore and prevention tips that are shared by our experienced general surgeon in Pune. 

 

Common Causes of Piles

  1. Straining during bowel movements: This is a common cause, especially in people with constipation or chronic diarrhoea.

  2. Ageing: The tissues in the rectum and anus can weaken with age, making them more susceptible to piles.

  3. Pregnancy: The increased pressure on the pelvic area during pregnancy can contribute to the development of piles.

  4. Chronic constipation or diarrhoea: These conditions can put a strain on the rectum and anus.

  5. Heavy lifting or straining: Activities that increase pressure on the abdomen can contribute to piles.

  6. Obesity: Excess weight gain can put additional strain on the rectum and anus.

  7. Liver disease: Certain liver diseases can lead to increased pressure in the portal vein, which can contribute to piles.

Types of Piles

  • Internal piles: These are located inside the rectum and are often asymptomatic. However, they can bleed during in.

  • External piles: These are located outside the anus and can be painful, especially when they become thrombosed (filled with blood clots).

Symptoms of Piles

  • Bleeding during bowel movements: This is a common symptom of internal piles.

  • Pain and discomfort: External piles can be painful, especially when they become thrombosed.

  • Itching: Piles can cause itching in the anal area.

  • Lump or bulge: External piles can appear as a lump or bulge near the anus.

Consult our general surgery hospital in Pune if you are experiencing piles disease symptoms and need hemorrhoid treatment.

Tips to Prevent Piles 

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent piles and hemorrhoids entirely, these tips can significantly reduce your risk:

Improve Bowel Habits

  • Increase fibre intake: Consume plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stools and prevent constipation.

  • Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep stools as soft as possible and prevent straining.

  • Establish a regular routine: Try to have a bowel movement at the same time each day.

  • Avoid straining: Take your time and don't strain during bowel movements.

Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

  • Exercise regularly: Physical activity can help improve bowel function and reduce pressure on the rectum.

  • Manage weight: Being overweight can increase pressure on the rectum and contribute to piles.

  • Limit alcohol and caffeine: Excessive consumption of these can lead to dehydration and constipation.

Avoid Irritants

  • Use soft toilet paper: Harsh toilet paper can irritate the anal area.

  • Avoid sitting for long periods: Get up and move around to reduce pressure on the rectum.

  • Take warm baths: Soaking in a warm bath can help soothe the area and reduce discomfort.

Conclusion

If you are experiencing symptoms of piles and hemorrhoids, it's important to consult with our general surgeon in Baner, Pune for proper diagnosis and treatment. We recommend bookmarking our blog page to read the latest healthcare blogs shared by our doctors. The content on our website is aimed at sharing medically accurate information that helps you make timely and informed decisions when it comes to the well-being of you and your loved ones. 

FAQ's

By maintaining a healthy diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and avoiding constipation, you can reduce your risk of developing piles.
 

While piles are usually not a serious condition, they can be uncomfortable and affect quality of life. In rare cases, complications such as anemia or blood clots can occur
 

Share this article on:

Subscribe to our blogs

Thank You Image

Thank you for subscribing to our blogs.
You will be notified when we upload a new blog