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Piles Treatment

About Piles Treatment?

Piles or hemorrhoids, commonly known as Bawaseer (बवासीर) in Hindi is a very common anorectal condition. Piles are collections of veins and tissues located at the anal area that becomes swollen and inflamed. Piles may develop around the anal skin or inside the rectum. 

Piles is common in the case of both men and women. If global medical reports are to be believed, one out of every four adults suffers from piles or hemorrhoids at some or other point in their life. Piles is most common in people within the age group of 50-60 years but can affect people of other age groups too. No medical expert to date could ascertain the exact cause of hemorrhoids.

However, several risk factors have been identified which can significantly increase an individual’s chances of developing piles. Piles can be managed with home remedies to a certain extent at an initial stage, but when piles grow severe or become advanced, medical intervention is extremely important.

Piles Formation

How do piles form?

The condition of piles is formed by constant pressure in the lower rectum. When a person constantly exerts pressure in areas around his rectum and the anus, due to reasons like constipation or lifting heavy weights, the blood vessels around those parts bulge and become swollen, forming piles. Due to constant straining, sometimes the veins might get wider and engorged with more blood than usual. These veins might form into one or more piles.

Types of Piles

Internal piles

Internal piles

External piles

External piles

What causes piles?

  • Constipation
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Lifting heavyweights
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy

Piles Symptoms

  • Pain and discomfort in the anal area while sitting
  • Pain while passing a stool
  • Blood with stool
  • Itchiness, redness, and swelling near the anus
  • Painful lump around the anus
  • Feeling of unclear bowel even after passing stool

Diagnosis - Piles Treatment

If it is a case of external piles, the anorectal specialist will be able to diagnose it just through physical examination. In case the hemorrhoids are internal, the doctor might do an examination of your rectum and anal canal. Two common tests which are done to diagnose piles are:

  • Digital examination – In this test, the piles specialist inserts a gloved, lubricated finger into the rectum to check if there are any kind of abnormal growths. 
  • Visual inspection – Since internal hemorrhoids are too soft to be felt, the piles doctor might examine the lower rectum using a proctoscopy, an anoscope or a sigmoidoscopy. Using any of these devices, the doctor will carefully examine the lining of your anal tissues to check the severity and growth of your piles.
Test of Piles

Severity - Piles Treatment

The piles are generally in minor inflammations and are found outside the anal lining. They are not visible to naked eyes.

Risks & Complications - Piles Treatment

Piles surgical treatment is not a complex one. Hence, the chances of any risks are very rare. But, like any other surgical treatment, the success or risks associated with piles treatment are also highly dependent upon the severity of the condition and the surgeon’s experience. In rare conditions, a patient may suffer any of the following conditions after a piles surgery:

  • Bleeding – The chances of bleeding during piles surgery is higher in the case of open surgery. In case the surgeon is not experienced enough to precisely remove the inflamed tissues, there are chances that the patient may suffer from bleeding
  • Infection – Infections can develop at any point during piles surgery. The chances are higher in rubber band ligation treatment for piles.
  • Reaction to anesthesia – Many patients report experiencing side effects of anesthesia. Due to the reaction, the patient might feel drowsy and nauseated for a longer time than usual.
  • Rectal prolapse – According to a report published on ScienceDirect, 12 random clinical trials have indicated that hemorrhoidectomy (hemorrhoid surgery) has an association with long-term risks of rectal prolapse.

  • Prevention of Piles

    How to prevent piles?

    Prevention of Piles

    In the words of Steven Kussin, a gastroenterologist based in New York, “Hemorrhoids are normal features of anatomy. We all have them.” Though people find it extremely discomforting to talk about piles or hemorrhoids, they are actually very common and can happen to anyone. There are no definite ways that can help prevent piles, but the condition can definitely be managed. Adopting the following can surely go a long way in helping you keep the painful anal disorder at bay.

    1. Swear by fiber in your diet

    Piles is most common in people who do not consume enough fiber in their regular diet. To prevent piles, one of the easiest and natural ways is to stock up your diet with fiber-rich food. If you want to keep piles at bay, it is crucial to eat at least 25-30 grams of fiber per day. Some foods rich in fiber are:

    – Whole grains, oatmeal, and brown rice

    – Beans and lentils

    – Vegetable and Brussel sprouts

    – Fruits such as bananas, apples, pears, and berries

    1. Drink sufficient water

    Water along with a fiber-rich diet is very important for the prevention of piles. Drinking enough water prevents constipation which in turn decreases the need to strain while passing a bowel movement. If you want to prevent piles or manage your current condition of piles from becoming worse, add 6-8 glasses of water to your system. It will help your digestive system function properly.

    1. Don’t hold the urge to pass stool

    If you feel you need to go to the toilet, go, don’t wait. Going to the toilet when the system calls is actually a very simple way to prevent piles. Ignoring nature’s call can have its own complications and repercussions. When your body says you need to go and sit on the toilet seat, go, don’t hold. When you listen to your body calls, preventing piles from becoming worse is much easier and simpler.

    1. Stop sitting on the toilet seat for too long

    Don’t spend long hours reading a book or scrolling through the mobile sitting on the toilet seat. The more time you spend sitting on the toilet seat, the more likely you are to strain and make your bowel movements worse. The position of sitting on the toilet seat directly exerts pressure and stress on blood vessels of the anus causing them to protrude.

    1. Stay physically active

    Hemorrhoids have a direct relation with physical activities and how you keep your body active. Staying physically active keeps the colon active and functions in a regular manner. But that being said, you should know which physical activity is good for you and which is not. Avoid any activity that puts strain and pressure on your abdominal region. Do not lift weights. Do not sit in one place for long hours. Moderate exercises like walking, jogging, yoga, and swimming can help the piles tissues from flaring.

  • Myths & facts about Piles

    Myths and facts about piles treatment

    Myths & facts about Piles

    Myth 1: Spicy foods cause hemorrhoids.

    Fact: Hemorrhoids are caused by strain on the veins near the anus. The straining might be caused due to constipation or hard stool or by spending more time on the toilet seat. Spicy foods have no direct correlation with hemorrhoids. But since spicy foods might be hard on the digestive system, people might need to exert more pressure while passing the bowel after having any spicy food.

    Myth 2: Hemorrhoids generally happen to old people.

    Fact: Age is not a factor for this disease. Yes, it is common in older people as the tissues get weaker but it can happen to anyone who has chronic constipation or strains during a bowel movement.

    Myth 3: Hemorrhoids can cause cancer.

    Fact: There is no such study or evidence that says hemorrhoids cause cancer. But you must visit a doctor if there is rectal bleeding as both colon cancer and piles have the same symptoms. 

    Myth 4: All kinds and sizes of hemorrhoids need surgical intervention.

    Fact: No, not all hemorrhoids need surgery as treatment. Hemorrhoids which are at an early stage, i.e. Grade 1 and Grade 2 piles can be easily managed with medication and regular home remedies. Hemorrhoids that get bigger in size, protrude out of the anal opening, and cannot be pushed back even after trying hard may need to be surgically removed since medicine and home remedies won’t be effective in such cases.

    Myth 5: Hemorrhoids is recurrent

    Fact: Hemorrhoids is not recurrent if you undergo the best treatment. With a success rate as high as 98%, laser surgery is considered to be the most effective treatment for hemorrhoids. If you undergo laser piles removal, there are almost nil chances that your piles will appear again. It is the best best, most effective, and considered to be the only permanent treatment for hemorrhoids.

  • Famous People With Hemorrhoids

    Famous People With Hemorrhoids

    Famous People With Hemorrhoids

    While you may think that you are the only one suffering from the dreadful symptoms of hemorrhoids, the reality is not so. There are many celebrities and well-known public figures who have suffered from this condition. If everyone were honest and open about their condition of piles, the list would have been much longer. Here are the names of a few famous people who have suffered from piles:

    George Clooney 

    Famous actor, director, screenwriter, and producer, George Clooney was diagnosed with hemorrhoids and he had a hard time hiding his disease condition from the public. Although he never went on to comment on it in public, the news was almost all over the media.

    Marilyn Monroe

    Not many people are aware of the fact that Marilyn Monroe, who is known for eternal beauty, suffered from hemorrhoids and insomnia. Like any other celebrity, she tried hard to keep it a secret but the fact could not be kept hidden for long.

    Ernest Hemingway

    American novelist Ernest Hemingway was once diagnosed with hemorrhoids. Along with piles, he was also diagnosed with several other health conditions including torn groin muscle, kidney trouble, anthrax infection, etc.

    Elizabeth Taylor

    Famous British-American actress Elizabeth Taylor suffered from persistent hemorrhoids. Although she never went to speak about it in open, the fact could not be kept under wraps for too long.

When to consult a doctor for Plies Treatment?

Knowing when to seek professional help for any health condition is extremely important and hemorrhoids are no exception. Getting medical help at the right time can help you avoid unnecessary complications. If you experience any of the following complications or conditions, it is time you check with an anorectal surgeon.

  • You have excruciating pain and discomfort in your anal and rectum area.
  • The stool that you pass is dark red, maroon, or tar-like in color. This can be a sign of internal bleeding.
  • You experience blood in the toilet paper every time you pass bowel movements.
  • No amount of medications and home remedies are able to provide you relief from your symptoms.
  • If you feel dizzy and weak due to continuous blood loss along with your stool.

Questions to ask your doctor for Piles treatment

How serious is the condition of my hemorrhoids?
Will home remedies and medicines provide me relief for my condition?
Do I need to undergo surgery for my condition?
How long should I take off from my office if I undergo surgery for piles treatment?
When will I be able to get back to my regular work life after surgery?
Will surgery provide me permanent relief from the pain and discomfort?
How can I prepare for the surgery?
How long will it take me to recover after the surgery?
Will your team help me throughout the treatment and after?

Piles Treatment Options & Cost

Rubber band ligation  – Rubber band ligation is another very commonly practiced less-invasive treatment for piles. The anorectal surgeon places a rubber band around the base of the internal piles. The rubber band cuts off the blood circulation to the piles tissues causing it to shrink and fall off within 5-7 days.

Coagulation – Coagulation or infrared photocoagulation is a medical procedure that is used to treat piles of small and medium sizes. The surgeon uses a beam of infrared light to destroy the piles. The treatment is only used for internal haemorrhoids.

Insurance coverage for Piles Treatment

Insurance coverage - Piles Treatment

Piles treatment is generally covered under health insurance. Most insurance companies offer a specific amount of coverage for piles and other anorectal diseases. The amount of coverage you have will depend on the policy you buy. 

One thing you should know is that medical treatment for piles won’t be covered in the insurance policy. Only the expenses of surgical treatment are covered and you also need to be hospitalized for at least 24 hours to file for a claim. You can opt for cashless payment or get reimbursement claims from your insurance providers as well. 

If your claim is approved, you will be able to cover the entire cost of treatment, including diagnostic tests, medications, hospital stay, bed charges, and other consumables. Some of the best and most popular healthcare insurance providers are Oriental, Religare Health, Manipal Cigna, United India Insurance, Care Health, New India Insurance, Star Health & Allied, Bajaj Allianz General Insurance, ICICIA Lombard, Max Bupa Health Insurance.

Insurance coverage for Piles Treatment
Piles Symptoms and Causes

Piles Symptoms and Causes

Piles or Hemorrhoids are a common condition that affects three out of four people at any time. This condition can flare up internally or externally, and the symptoms depend entirely upon the type of hemorrhoids, external or internal. Additionally, the type and severity of piles symptoms may vary from person to person. Listed below are some common symptoms of piles, bifurcated based on the type of hemorrhoid: 

Piles Symptoms

Symptoms Of External Hemorrhoids: 

– Irritation or itching in the anal or rectal region that doesn’t subside 

– Swelling around the mucosa 

– Pain or discomfort in the anal region

– Swelling around the anus 

– Bleeding from the anus

Symptoms Of Internal Hemorrhoids: 

– Bleeding during bowel movement, which is accompanied by no pain or discomfort. 

– Noticing bright red blood on the toilet paper

– Pain and irritation in the anal region

Sometimes, the blood gets collected in hemorrhoids, leading to a clot or thrombus formation. In such cases, the affected individuals may experience swelling, excruciating pain, and inflammation, in addition to a large lump in the area. Hemorrhoid symptoms can be quite discomforting and may affect your day-to-day life. You must seek medical attention if the symptoms mentioned above persist and don’t subside in a week’s span. 

Piles Causes

There’s no one definite cause of Piles. This condition can occur for various reasons, and the causes generally differ for each individual. In most cases, Piles or hemorrhoids may form due to the following reasons: 

Chronic constipation: Straining while passing stool can damage the blood vessels leading to hemorrhoids. 

Pregnancy: Pregnancy causes the tissues in the rectum to weaken. Additionally, the hormones may also cause the veins to relax and swell, putting you at an increased risk of hemorrhoids. 

Sedentary lifestyle: Sitting in the same position for too long also increases the risk of piles/hemorrhoids

Less fiber intake: Consuming a diet that does not include fiber can lead to constipation. This might cause you to strain while passing stool, leading to hemorrhoids. 

Anal intercourse: It not only puts you at risk of getting hemorrhoids but may also worsen the pre-existing condition. 

Diarrhea: Sometimes, chronic diarrhea can also lead to hemorrhoids.

Piles Symptoms and Causes

Piles Treatment - Video Testimonial by Patient

Video on the disease and treatment by Pristyn Care doctor

Latest Research

  • Demographic study of hemorrhoid with analysis of risk factors

  • Prevalence and associated factors of hemorrhoids among adult patients

FAQ around Piles Treatment

What are some home remedies to minimize Piles symptoms?

Piles can be pretty discomforting and may degrade your quality of life. But, several home remedies can help you ease early-stage piles symptoms. We have listed some home remedies that will give you respite from this distressing condition: 

  • Take a warm bath with Epsom salt. Doing this can help soothe the irritation caused by this condition. 
  • Use a cold-compress to reduce swelling and inflammation.
  • Apply coconut oil to the affected area to prevent or relieve inflammation and swelling. 
  • Include more fiber in your diet to prevent constipation and straining during passing stool.
  • Stay hydrated to ensure a healthy and uninterrupted bowel movement.

What factors increase the risk of piles?

The following factors may put you at an increased risk of getting piles: 

  • Constipation 
  • High BMI 
  • Less intake of fibrous foods 
  • Sedentary lifestyle 
  • Pregnancy

what causes piles?

  • Constipation
  • Chronic diarrhea
  • Lifting heavyweights
  • Obesity
  • Pregnancy

Who is at risk of getting hemorrhoids?

Irrespective of age and gender, any individual can suffer from hemorrhoids. Globally, over half the population suffers from piles by the time they turn 50. Hemorhhoids can equally affect both men and women. But the risk is a bit greater in the case of pregnant women and people over 3 years who do not follow healthy dietary and lifestyle habits.

How to know if it is piles or anal fissures?

Piles is a condition in which the anal tissues get swollen and inflamed and often protrudes out of the anal opening. An anal fissure is a tear that is caused by long periods of hard stool or diarrhea. Both the conditions are associated with common symptoms such as rectal bleeding, anal itching, and painful bowel movements. It can often be confusing to distinguish between the two. The best way to understand whether the condition is piles or fissures, the best way is to consult with an anorectal expert and get a detailed consultation to rule out potential complications.

Can piles put a person at a higher risk of getting colorectal cancer?

Hemorrhoids generally do not increase the risk of anorectal cancer in any person. However, there are cases where people with piles have developed anorectal cancer. According to medical research, 2.3 percent of patients suffering from severe hemorrhoids have developed colorectal piles. But since there are symptoms that can be common in the case of both conditions, it is important to determine whether there is the presence of any cancerous tissues.

Can home remedies provide long-term relief from piles?

Home remedies can only manage the symptoms of piles from getting worse but not provide permanent relief to the condition. At-home remedies like topical ointments, sitz baths provide temporary relief from painful piles symptoms rather than fixing the cause of the disease. The only effective permanent treatment for piles is the surgical removal of the hemorrhoid itself.

Which doctor should I consult for piles treatment?

If you are suffering from piles or any anorectal disease, you can first consult with a general physician. If the general physician finds any major problem in your health condition, the doctor is likely to refer you to an anorectal expert. In that case, you can consult with an experienced and trained colorectal surgeon, proctologist, and anorectal surgeon.

Facts and figures around Piles

  • Approximately 40,723,288 people in India are reported to have hemorrhoids.
  • Annually, 1 million new cases of piles are reported in India
  • Most people with piles in India are between the age groups of 45-65 years.
  • Anyone can develop hemorrhoids regardless of age, sex [gender], race, body stature, immune system, and overall health condition.
  • It is estimated that 50-85% of people around the world are suffering from hemorrhoids.
  • A study found that the incidence of constipation and piles is much more common in Arab countries.

Why Choose Pristyn Care for Piles Treatment?

  • Pristyn Care is a certified Centre of Excellence for anorectal treatments including diseases like piles, anal fissure, and anal fistula.
  • Pristyn Care houses some of the top anorectal surgeons of the country who have years of experience in delivering surgical treatment for colorectal diseases with a high success rate.
  • Pristyn Care is associated with some of the top hospitals across India that are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities required to perform advanced anorectal surgeries.
  • Proctologists/ General Surgeons working with Pristyn Care do a thorough consultation in the case of every patient to understand the health condition and then determine the treatment method that will work best.
  • To ease out the commuting process for our patients, we also provide free cab facilities to bring you from home to the hospital and help you return back home after the surgery.
  • A free-of-cost follow-up is provided to the patients within the first seven days after the surgery.
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