Piles
Piles
Piles are the result of swollen veins in the lower anus and rectum.They can cause tissue growths in and around the anus and can lead to significant discomfort. These growths can vary in size and location.
- Internal piles occur within the rectum and are usually not visible during an external examination.
- An external pile may grow to protrude outside of the anus. The medical term for this is prolapsed hemorrhoid.
Symptoms of Piles
An individual with piles may experience the following symptoms:
- Painful lumps in and around the anus
- Itching and discomfort around the anus
- Discomfort during and after passing stools
- Bloody stools
Piles can escalate into a more severe condition which include:
- Excessive anal bleeding, possibly leading to anemia
- Fecal incontinence
- Anal Fistula
- Strangulated hemorrhoid, in which anal muscles cut off blood supply to the hemorrhoid.
Risk Factors :
- Pregnancy: Up to 50% Trusted Source of people experience hemorrhoids during pregnancy. This is due to increased pressure on the pelvis, a person having a higher blood volume, and a higher incidence of constipation.
- Age: Piles are more common in older adults. Around half Trusted Source of people over the age of 50 develop piles.
- Weight: Research suggests that being overweight may increaseTrusted Source a person’s chance of developing piles.
- Diet: Eating a diet low in fiber may increase the likelihood