Piles

Piles are swollen veins in the anus caused by constant pressure on blood vessels, especially in the lower abdomen and pelvic area. This pressure makes the veins bulge and form lumps.

Types of Piles

• Internal piles – Located deep inside, not visible or easy to feel. Usually painless with little discomfort.
• Middle piles – More painful, with swelling and bleeding.
• External piles – Found outside the anus, may bleed, cause pain, swelling, and risk of infection due to friction.

Causes of Piles

The most common cause is chronic constipation, which puts continuous pressure on anal veins. Passing hard stools can injure the veins, leading to swelling and bleeding. Other causes include:

• Eating spicy, oily, and low-fiber foods
• Lack of vegetables and fiber in diet
• Threadworms or other intestinal parasites
• Frequent diarrhea from infections or medicines
• Liver diseases slowing blood flow
• Alcohol consumption
• Long sitting hours and lack of exercise
• Pregnancy, due to increased pressure from the growing baby
• Poor hygiene or prolonged dampness around the anal area

Risk Factors

• Family history of piles
• Overweight or obesity
• Jobs requiring long sitting hours
• People who rarely walk or exercise
• Women in late pregnancy, especially with twins or larger babies

Symptoms

• Itching, burning, or discomfort in the anal area
• Pain while sitting, especially with external piles
• Bleeding during or after bowel movements
• Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
• Swelling or lumps near the anus

Prevention and Lifestyle Tips

• Eat high-fiber foods like leafy greens, radish, and whole grains
• Drink plenty of water to prevent constipation
• Avoid spicy and heavy-to-digest foods like red meat, eggs, and bakery items
• Exercise regularly to improve blood flow
• Maintain good hygiene after using the toilet
• Use soft seating, preferably woven chairs, in hot weather
• Avoid sitting in damp places for long periods
• Go to the toilet at fixed times daily
• Use mild oils like almond or olive oil to reduce irritation

Treatment

In early stages, piles can be treated with diet changes, hygiene, and medicines. Surgery is considered only if other treatments fail. Unani medicine also offers remedies to reduce swelling and bleeding.

Radish, radish leaves, spinach, and amaranth are beneficial foods that relieve constipation and help restore blood levels.

If piles are linked to liver problems, specific liver treatments may be needed before surgery.

Conclusion

Piles are common and often linked to poor diet, constipation, and sedentary lifestyle. Early treatment and healthy habits can prevent and manage the condition without surgery.