Medicity Guwahati

What is piles

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common medical condition characterized by inflamed and swollen collections of tissue in the anal area. They can vary in size and severity and are classified into two primary types: internal piles and external piles.

Internal piles are normally located between 2 and 4 centimeters (cm) above the opening of the anus, and they are the more common type. External piles occur on the outside edge of the anus.

Piles is classified into four grades:

Grade I: Piles that bleed but don't prolapse (protrude out of the anus).

Grade II: Piles that prolapse during a bowel movement and retract spontaneously.

Grade III: Piles that prolapse during a bowel movement and require manual repositioning.

Grade IV: Piles that are always prolapsed and cannot be pushed back inside.

Common Symptoms of Piles (Hemorrhoids)

Lump or Swelling: Individuals with piles may notice a hard and possibly painful lump around the anus. This lump may contain coagulated blood, and when this occurs, it's referred to as thrombosed external hemorrhoids.

Feeling of Incomplete Bowel Movements: After passing stool, a person with piles may have the sensation that their bowels are not entirely empty.

Bright Red Blood: One of the hallmark symptoms of piles is the presence of bright red blood after a bowel movement. This blood may be noticed on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl. It's typically a result of bleeding from the swollen blood vessels associated with piles.

Itchiness, Redness, and Soreness: The area around the anus can become itchy, red, and sore due to the irritation caused by piles. This discomfort and irritation can be particularly bothersome.

Pain during Bowel Movements: Passing stool can be painful for individuals with piles, especially if the hemorrhoids are inflamed or prolapsed.

Causes

primarily caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum. This elevated pressure can lead to the stretching and swelling of the blood vessels located in and around the anus and rectum, ultimately resulting in the formation of piles.
These swollen and engorged blood vessels are what cause the characteristic symptoms and discomfort associated with piles, such as pain, itching, and bleeding.