Piles also known as haemorrhoids are the swelling of veins in the lower anus and rectum part of the human body. This swelling can cause inflammation of other tissues in the nearby area
leading to significant discomfort. Nearly three out of four adults suffer from piles. It is
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commonly seen between the age group of 45 to 65 years.
SYMPTOMS
In most cases, the symptoms of piles are not serious and wipe out on their own. A person can see the following indications to check whether they have piles or not –
❖ Aching bump in and around the anus
❖ itching and discomfort around the anus
❖ discomfort during and after passing stool
❖ bloody stools
It might develop into a more severe condition if not taken care of on time. These include:
❖ extreme anal bleeding, perhaps leading to anemiainfection
❖ fecal incontinence i.e. not being able to curb bowel movements
❖ anal fistula i.e. a compact hole that develops between the end of the bowel and the
❖ skin near the anus.
CAUSES
The cause of the piles is unknown. Piles can develop from increased coercion in the lower rectum due to:
❖ constipation
❖ irritable bowel movements
❖ sitting for a long duration of time on the toilet seat
❖ having chronic diarrhea
❖ being stout
❖ Pregnancy
❖ consuming a low-fiber diet
❖ regular heavy lifting
TREATMENT
Hemorrhoid surgery discards swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus and rectum. There are distinct surgical options for treating piles. Surgeries aim to limit the blood supply or remove the hemorrhoid.
Non-surgical Piles Treatment methods include usage of ointments, painkillers, high fiber diet, hydration of body, sitz -bath, ice pack might help to reduce swelling caused due to hemorrhoids.
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There are two types of hemorrhoids, determined on the basis of
their location. External hemorrhoids form below the skin of the anus, whereas internal hemorrhoids form inside the lining of the anus and lower rectum.
NON-SURGICAL METHODS
Some home remedies might help to cure piles without undergoing any surgery. These remedies might effectively shrink the painful internal piles.
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I. Sitz bath: It is a hot water bath that cleans the rectal area and helps to relieve discomfort in the gooch region. People with aching hemorrhoids can get calmness by sitting in moderately warm water several numbers of times a day. A sitz bath is most fruitful when taken right after passing stool.
Ii. Ice Pack: using ice packs for piles helps veins to strengthen and be resilient. It provides great solace from tingling, soreness, and swelling in the rectal area.
Iii. Coconut oil for piles: due to its natural ameliorating properties and health benefits coconut is an efficacious home remedy for piles. It has deep anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce smarting. It also has analgesic properties that lessen the discomfort caused by piles.
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SURGICAL METHODS
Patients who are upset due to large, swollen, and disembarked piles may have to be treated with resection. The incision for piles may be performed under local, spinal, or general anaesthesia.
i. Rubber band ligation: It is a procedure conducted by doctors to treat oozing or prolapsing internal haemorrhoids. A doctor put down a special rubber band around the root of hemorrhoid. The band amputates the blood supply. The banded part of hemorrhoid desiccates and falls off, most often within a week. It is cost effectual and frequently used treatment.
Ii. Sclerotherapy: A doctor injects a chemical solution into the area around hemorrhoid, which causes scar tissue to form. The most frequently used chemicals include zinc chloride, quinine, and polidocanol. The scar tissue stops the blood supply, often diminishing hemorrhoids.
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Iii. Infrared photocoagulation: A doctor uses an instrument that directs the infrared light as a heat source to quickly coagulate or clot vessels which stops the blood supply to the hemorrhoids. It eventually leads to the shrinkage of hemorrhoids and then their removal.
Iv. Electrocoagulation: It is a process similar to infrared photocoagulation. But instead of infrared light heat from an electric current is used. A doctor uses a device that dispatches an electric current into the internal hemorrhoid. The electric current causes scar tissue to form, which cuts off the blood supply, often shrinking hemorrhoids.
V. Hemorrhoidectomy: It is the most effective treatment for all types of hemorrhoids. It is preferred in patients who have piles for long periods with repeated bleeding, severe pain, and swelling. The surgeon conducts surgery by removing the expanded vessels using a surgical scalpel or laser. Once the blood vessels are removed, the resulting gap in the anal region is either left open or sutured using stitches.
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PREVENTION
To prevent piles following tips can be included in your daily routine:
I. Eat fiber: Also known as roughage is a plant-based food that can’t be broken down completely by the digestive system. It helps food to pass through your system easier. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, beans, and legumes in your diet. Focus on including 25-30 grams of dietary fiber a day.
Ii. Use fiber supplements: usage of supplements can help soothe excreta if you do not get enough fiber from food. Psyllium husk fiber supplement can be tried.
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Iii. Drink water: Drink plenty of water daily. 3-4 liters of water should be consumed by a person every day. It will help you evade stiff feces and constipation, so you strain less during bowel movements.
Iv. Exercise: physical activity, like walking and yoga at least half an hour every day, keeps your blood and your bowels moving.
V. Use the toilet as soon as you feel the impulse.
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Vi. Don’t exert pressure during a bowel movement.
CONCLUSION
Piles aren’t life-threatening and generally disappear on their own or with minimum out- patient surgical aid and piles treatment. It can be prevented with thorough lifestyle changes i.e. eating a diet of high fiber, drinking sufficient water every day, exercising, weight management, etc. It can be cured surgically as well.
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