Piles, a common name for haemorrhoids, is the swelling of veins situated around the inner part of the anus. These veins may swell when they are irritated by the passing of stools. Piles tend to bleed easily when inflamed or infected. While passing stools, one may notice a gush of blood, from a few drops to a large amount. Bleeding and pain are often the only signs of piles. Most of the time, the bleeding is painless.
Haemorrhoids can be internal or external. When infected, they often become painful and itchy, causing difficulty in sitting and interfering with the patient’s day-to-day activities.
Even though piles are treatable, patients often neglect the treatment until the disease turns quite serious. If identified at an early stage, piles can be treated successfully with medicines and lifestyle changes.
Quick facts about Piles
75% of the population gets haemorrhoids at some point in their life.
50% of adults experience the symptoms of haemorrhoids by the age of 50.
30% of those suffering from piles pass blood in the stool.
40% of patients with piles who have no symptoms are unaware of their condition.