Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the lower rectum or anus. They are one of the most common anorectal problems affecting both men and women, often causing discomfort, pain, bleeding, and itching. While piles are rarely life-threatening, untreated cases can lead to complications and significantly affect quality of life.
One of the most important aspects of understanding piles is recognising the different types of piles, as the symptoms and treatment vary depending on the type. This blog explains the types of piles.
Piles occur when the veins in the rectum and anus become enlarged due to increased pressure. Common causes include chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, sitting for long periods on the toilet, obesity, pregnancy, and a low-fibre diet. These swollen veins can be either internal or external, each type having its own set of symptoms and treatment methods.
There are four major types of piles that doctors usually classify:
• Internal piles: Bright red bleeding, prolapse.
• External piles: Pain, itching, irritation, swelling.
• Thrombosed piles: Severe pain, a bluish lump, bleeding.
• Prolapsed piles: Tissue bulging outside the anus, discomfort, and difficulty cleaning.
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/hemorrhoids/symptoms-causes/syc-20360268
• Anaemia due to chronic bleeding.
• Infections.
• Strangulated haemorrhoids (blood supply cut off).
• Chronic pain and hygiene issues.
Thrombosed piles are usually the most painful due to blood clots.
Mild internal piles may resolve with diet and lifestyle changes, but severe cases need treatment.
No. Piles are swollen veins, while fissures are small tears in the anal lining.
Yes, pregnancy increases abdominal pressure, often leading to piles.
Laser surgery is currently one of the safest and most effective treatments for severe piles.
Piles are common but often misunderstood. Understanding the types of piles, internal, external, thrombosed, and prolapsed, helps in recognising symptoms early and choosing the right treatment. While home remedies may help mild cases, advanced or painful piles require professional medical care.
At Solaris Hospital, Thane, expert doctors and advanced technology ensure safe, effective, and permanent solutions for all types of piles. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, don’t delay, consult our specialists today for timely relief and long-term health.
Service Road, Ghodbunder Rd, next to AP Shah Institute of Technology, Kasarvadavali, Thane West, Maharashtra 400615
