Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort, pain, and sometimes bleeding. They are a common health problem affecting millions worldwide, particularly adults over the age of 30. Despite being widespread, many people feel hesitant to talk about piles, which delays diagnosis and treatment.
Understanding the types of piles is crucial for proper management. Each type has unique symptoms, severity, and treatment approaches. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the different types of piles, their symptoms, causes, and treatment options.
Piles are varicose-like veins in the rectal area that become swollen due to increased pressure. They can develop inside the rectum (internal piles) or under the skin around the anus (external piles). Depending on their position and severity, piles are classified into different grades and types.
1. Internal Piles: Internal piles are located inside the rectum and are usually not visible. They are often painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
➡ Symptoms: Bright red blood in stool, mucus discharge, and a feeling of incomplete evacuation.
Grading of Internal Piles:
Grade I: Small swellings inside the rectum; usually painless, may cause bleeding.
Grade II: Prolapse (comes out of the anus) during straining but returns spontaneously.
Grade III: Prolapse during straining and needs to be pushed back manually.
Grade IV: Permanently prolapsed and cannot be pushed back inside; often painful and prone to complications.
2. External Piles: External piles form under the skin around the anus. They are visible, more painful, and often associated with irritation or swelling.
➡ Symptoms: Common symptoms include pain and discomfort while sitting or walking, swelling around the anus, blood stains after wiping, and itching or irritation in the area.
3. Thrombosed Piles: Sometimes, a blood clot forms inside an external haemorrhoid. This condition is called thrombosed piles, which can be extremely painful.
➡ Symptoms: The condition is characterised by severe pain and tenderness around the anus, often accompanied by a hard lump. The affected area may also appear dark blue in colour due to the presence of a blood clot.
4. Prolapsed Piles: Prolapsed piles occur when internal haemorrhoids enlarge and protrude outside the anus. They can range from mild prolapse (Grade II) to severe, permanent prolapse (Grade IV).
➡ Symptoms: The condition presents as a bulge or lump protruding from the anus, often accompanied by pain, itching, and irritation. Bleeding during bowel movements is also a common symptom.
For a comprehensive overview of hemorrhoid types and treatments, visit MedlinePlus
• Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
• Straining during bowel movements
• Sitting for long periods on the toilet
• Low-fibre diet
• Obesity
• Pregnancy (due to increased abdominal pressure)
• Ageing (weakened rectal tissues)
• Bleeding during or after bowel movements
• Swelling or a lump around the anus
• Pain, itching, and irritation
• Mucus discharge
• Difficulty sitting comfortably
• High-fibre diet (whole grains, fruits, vegetables)
• Adequate water intake
• Regular exercise
• Avoid prolonged sitting on the toilet
• Warm sitz baths
• Topical ointments and suppositories
• Oral medications for pain and inflammation
• Rubber band ligation
• Infrared coagulation
• Sclerotherapy
• Hemorrhoidectomy (surgical removal)
• Stapled haemorrhoidopexy
• Severe anaemia due to chronic blood loss
• Strangulated haemorrhoids
• Anal fissures and infections
• Persistent pain and discomfort
Piles are a common yet often ignored condition. By understanding the different types of piles, internal, external, thrombosed, and prolapsed, you can identify symptoms early and seek appropriate treatment. While mild piles may resolve with dietary changes and home remedies, advanced cases may require medical or surgical intervention.
Early diagnosis and proactive management can prevent complications and significantly improve your quality of life. If you notice bleeding, persistent pain, or swelling around the anus, consult a specialist to determine the best treatment for your condition.
At Solaris Hospital in Thane, our expert team offers advanced diagnostic tools and a range of effective treatments for all types of piles, from non-invasive therapies to minimally invasive surgical options. Your comfort, safety, and long-term health are our top priorities.
Service Road, Ghodbunder Rd, next to AP Shah Institute of Technology, Kasarvadavali, Thane West, Maharashtra 400615
