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Piles – Causes, Types, Home Remedies, and Prevention Tips

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the rectal or anal area. They can be uncomfortable, cause itching, and sometimes lead to bleeding during bowel movements. While piles are common, especially in adults, they can be managed effectively with lifestyle changes, simple home remedies, and preventive care.

In this article, we’ll discuss what piles are, their types, why they occur, home remedies for relief, and how to prevent them before they start.

1. What are Piles?

Piles are swollen and inflamed veins inside or around the anus and lower rectum. They develop when increased pressure in the lower rectal area stretches the veins, causing them to bulge.

They can be internal (inside the rectum) or external (under the skin around the anus).

Common symptoms include:

• Itching or irritation around the anus

• Pain during sitting or bowel movements

• Small amounts of bleeding during stool passage

• Swelling or lumps around the anus

2. Types of Piles

Piles can be classified into different types based on their location and severity:

• Internal Piles – Located inside the rectum; usually painless but may cause bleeding.

• External Piles – Form under the skin around the anus; can be painful and itchy.

• Thrombosed Piles – External piles with a blood clot; very painful and may require medical attention.

• Prolapsed Piles – Internal piles that have slipped outside the anus; can be seen or felt as lumps.

3. Why Piles Occur

Several factors can cause or worsen piles:

• Chronic Constipation – Straining during bowel movements increases rectal pressure.

• Low-Fiber Diet – Leads to hard stools and difficult bowel movements.

• Pregnancy – Extra pressure on the pelvic veins during pregnancy can cause piles.

• Prolonged Sitting – Especially on the toilet, can strain rectal veins.

• Obesity – Extra body weight increases pressure on the rectum.

• Heavy Lifting – Straining while lifting can trigger piles.

4. Basic Home Remedies for Piles

For mild piles, simple home remedies can provide relief and promote healing:

• Increase Fiber Intake – Eat fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to soften stools.

• Stay Hydrated – Drink 2–3 liters of water daily.

• Warm Sitz Bath – Sitting in warm water for 15–20 minutes can reduce swelling and discomfort.

• Cold Compress – Applying ice packs to the affected area can help reduce pain and inflammation.

• Aloe Vera Gel – Known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

(Note: For severe pain, heavy bleeding, or persistent symptoms, consult a doctor.)

5. How to Prevent Piles Before They Start

Preventing piles is easier than treating them. Follow these tips:

• Eat a High-Fiber Diet – Keeps stools soft and prevents constipation.

• Avoid Straining – Don’t delay bowel movements and avoid pushing too hard.

• Exercise Regularly – Helps digestion and reduces rectal pressure.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight – Reduces strain on pelvic veins.

• Limit Sitting Time – Take breaks if you sit for long periods.

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