“May all be happy, may all be healed, may all be at peace and may no one ever suffer."
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can be internal, meaning they are located inside the rectum, or external, meaning they are located under the skin around the anus.
Symptoms of piles can include pain, itching, swelling, and bleeding during bowel movements. They can be caused by straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods of time, or pregnancy.
Treatment for piles depends on the severity of the symptoms. In mild cases, over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories may provide relief from symptoms. Warm baths or sitz baths can also help to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
In more severe cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a minimally invasive procedure to remove the piles, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation. In rare cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the piles.
To prevent piles, it is important to avoid straining during bowel movements, maintain a healthy diet with plenty of fiber, and stay hydrated to prevent constipation. Regular exercise and avoiding sitting for long periods of time can also help to prevent piles.