Piles (Haemorrhoids)

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and lower rectum. They are very common and are often linked to constipation, straining and prolonged sitting. Although they can be uncomfortable, most piles can be treated effectively, and many do not need surgery.

Recognising the Symptoms

• Bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl or on the stool, usually without pain
• Itching, irritation or discomfort around the anus
• A lump or swelling that comes out during or after passing stool
• Mucus discharge, or a feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely
• Sudden severe pain with a firm, tender lump near the anus

Diagnosis

Piles are diagnosed by clinical examination, including a digital rectal examination and proctoscopy. Because rectal bleeding can also be caused by other conditions, including polyps and colorectal cancer, a colonoscopy or sigmoidoscopy is advised for older patients, those with a family history, a change in bowel habit, or bleeding that is not clearly from piles.

Treatment Options

Early-stage piles often settle with dietary fibre, plenty of fluids, avoiding straining and medicines to ease symptoms. Office procedures such as rubber-band ligation or sclerotherapy treat piles that persist, while surgery — haemorrhoidectomy, stapled haemorrhoidopexy or Doppler-guided artery ligation — is reserved for large, prolapsing or recurring piles that do not respond to other measures.

Why Choose Dr. Abhishek Mitra

• MS in General Surgery and DNB in GI Surgery (Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi), with a postdoctoral (HBNI) fellowship from Tata Memorial Hospital, Mumbai
• Experience in managing a wide range of gastrointestinal ailments, from routine conditions to complex cancers
• Individualised treatment plan based on the grade of your piles and your overall health
• Evidence-based and ethical clinical practice, with a clear explanation of every treatment option

Conclusion

Early evaluation and the right treatment make a significant difference in outcomes for Piles. If you or a family member are dealing with these symptoms, a detailed evaluation can help determine the most appropriate course of care for your situation.