Key points
- Swollen blood vessels at the back passage
- Constipation is the main cause
- Fibre, water, no straining
- Any rectal bleeding: get it checked once
What it is
Piles are swollen blood vessels in and around the back passage (anus). Everyone has these cushions of blood vessels; they become piles when they swell and stretch.
They are very common, especially with long-standing constipation, during pregnancy and after childbirth.
Common signs
- Bright red blood after passing stools
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- A soft lump that may come out and go back
- Discomfort or pain while sitting
- Mucus discharge
Common causes
- Constipation and straining
- Sitting on the toilet for a long time
- Pregnancy
- Long hours of sitting or heavy lifting
- A low-fibre diet and too little water
Everyday care that helps
- Treat constipation: more fibre and water
- Don't strain, and don't sit on the toilet for long
- Warm sitz baths for ten to fifteen minutes can soothe
- Keep the area clean and dry; use soft, plain toilet paper or water
- Stay active; avoid long periods of sitting
When to see a doctor promptly
- Heavy bleeding, or dark or black stools
- Severe pain, or a hard, very painful lump
- Bleeding with weight loss, tiredness or change in bowel habits
- Any rectal bleeding after age 40 that has not been checked
How we approach it at Gursagar
We take a careful history of bowel habits, bleeding, diet and lifestyle, and advise examination where needed so that other causes of bleeding are not missed.
Dr. Shah prescribes classical homoeopathic medicine chosen for you individually, with diet and routine advice. Where surgical assessment is needed, we advise it.
Common questions
Are piles dangerous?
Usually not, but bleeding should always be checked once to rule out other causes.
Are spicy foods to blame?
Constipation and straining matter more; very spicy food can increase irritation for some.
Can I consult online?
Yes for ongoing care, after an initial examination where advised.
Practising classical homoeopathy since 1999 · Gursagar Homoeopathic Hospital, Rajpura & Chandigarh · Full profile →
Would you like Dr. Shah to look at your case?
Consult in person at Rajpura or Chandigarh, or online from anywhere in India and abroad.
This article is for general health education and is not a substitute for a medical consultation. Every person is assessed individually, and results differ from person to person. Please do not stop or change any medicine prescribed to you without speaking to your doctor. Dr. Randeep Singh Shah, D.H.M.S., AFHom (UK) · Reg. No. 2423-A.