Piles (Haemorrhoids): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment
March 19, 2025

Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, occur when the anus veins and lower rectum become swollen and enlarged, leading to discomfort, pain, and rectal bleeding. While everyone has hemorrhoidal tissue naturally, problems arise only when these veins swell and cause symptoms. Similar to varicose veins, hemorrhoids can develop internally within the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or externally under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids). Fortunately, various treatment options exist, ranging from home remedies and lifestyle adjustments to medical interventions, helping many individuals find relief.
Types of Piles (Hemorrhoids)
There are three different types of hemorrhoids: Internal, External, and Thrombosed Piles.
Internal Piles
Internal hemorrhoids develop deep inside the rectum, making them invisible and difficult to detect. Since this area has very few pain-sensing nerves, they typically don’t cause pain. However, their presence can lead to other symptoms, such as bleeding or discomfort, especially if they become irritated or enlarged.
External Piles
External hemorrhoids develop in the anal area, often causing discomfort. When they protrude through the anus, they become visible and can be felt. In some cases, blood clots may form within the swollen mass, leading to severe pain, especially if the hemorrhoid slips downward.
Thrombosed Piles
When blood collects in an external hemorrhoid, it can form a clot known as a thrombus. It can cause intense pain, swelling, inflammation, and a firm, discolored lump near the anus.
Symptoms of Piles
In most cases, hemorrhoid symptoms are mild and resolve without treatment. However, individuals with hemorrhoids may experience symptoms such as:
- Painful lumps in and around the anus
- Itching and irritation in the anal area
- Discomfort during and after bowel movements
- Blood in the stool
In some instances, hemorrhoids can worsen and lead to serious complications, including:
- Excessive anal bleeding, which may cause anemia
- Infections
- Fecal incontinence
- Anal fistulas
- Strangulated hemorrhoids, where anal muscles restrict blood flow to the swollen tissue
Despite these potential complications, many people with hemorrhoids experience no noticeable symptoms.
Causes of Piles
Straining puts pressure on veins in the anus or rectum, causing hemorrhoids. Increased pressure on the abdomen or lower extremities is prone to inflammation and swelling of the anal and rectal veins. Hemorrhoids may develop due to:
- Pushing hard to have a bowel movement due to constipation.
- Pelvic pressure from weight gain, especially during pregnancy.
- Straining to lift heavy objects or weightlifting.
Treatment for Piles
Non-surgical medication
Several therapeutic options are available to make symptoms more manageable for an individual with piles.
Over-the-counter (OTC)
Over-the-counter and online medications, including painkillers, ointments, creams, and soothing pads, can help reduce redness and swelling around the anus. While these treatments do not cure hemorrhoids, they provide symptom relief. Avoid using them for more than seven consecutive days, as prolonged use may cause skin irritation and thinning. Additionally, do not combine multiple medications unless directed by a healthcare professional.
Corticosteroids
These can reduce inflammation and pain.
Laxatives
The doctor may prescribe laxatives if a person with piles suffers from constipation. These can help the person pass stools more efficiently and reduce pressure on the lower colon.
Minimally Invasive Procedures
For continuous bleeding or painful haemorrhoids, the doctor might recommend one of the minimally invasive procedures available. These treatments can be done in your doctor’s office or different outpatient settings and don’t usually require anaesthesia.
Rubber Band Ligation
The doctor places one or two tiny rubber bands around the internal haemorrhoid to cut off its circulation. The haemorrhoid shrinks and falls off within a week. Haemorrhoid banding can be uncomfortable and cause bleeding, which is rarely severe.
Injection (Sclerotherapy)
The specialist injects a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid tissue to shrink it. While the injection causes little or no pain, it might be less effective than rubber band ligation.
Coagulation (infrared, laser or bipolar)
Coagulation techniques use laser or infrared light or heat. They cause slight, bleeding internal hemorrhoids to harden and wither.
Warm Bath
Warm baths can help soothe irritation from hemorrhoids. A sitz bath, a small plastic tub that fits over a toilet seat, can immerse the affected area. Trying a warm or sitz bath for 20 minutes after each bowel movement and Adding Epsom salt to the tub can provide further relief.
Cold Compress
Applying ice packs or cold compresses to the anus can relieve swelling for 15 minutes at a time. For large, painful haemorrhoids, cold compresses can be highly effective. Make sure to wrap ice inside a cloth or paper towel. Never apply something frozen directly to your skin since this can harm or damage the skin.
Do Not Scratch
Scratching damages the skin and worsens the irritation and itching.
Apply Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is a natural moisturizer that may also help with hemorrhoid symptoms. In addition, applying coconut oil may reduce irritation and swelling, and it may also help reduce the urge to scratch.
Try Squat
Try a squat position. For example, put a short bench under your feet when you go to the bathroom. Raising your knees as you sit on the toilet changes the position of your inner workings and could make bowel movements easier.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the leading cause of piles?
Increased pressure in the veins around the anus and rectum primarily causes hemorrhoids, or piles. This pressure often results from straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhea, and prolonged sitting.
2. How do I know if I have piles?
Individuals with hemorrhoids may feel as if their bowels are still full after a bowel movement. Bright red blood may appear after passing stool. The area around the anus can become itchy, red, and sore, while bowel movements may cause pain.
3. How do I cure piles naturally?
To naturally manage and relieve hemorrhoids, eat a fiber-rich balanced diet, stay well-hydrated, maintain proper hygiene, and use warm sitz baths and over-the-counter treatments.
4. What foods cause piles?
To prevent or manage hemorrhoids, individuals should reduce or avoid low-fiber foods, excessive salt, processed and fried foods, spicy dishes, and constipation-triggering items like red meat, dairy, and refined grains.