Piles (Haemorrhoids): Causes and Treatment

What is Pile?

Piles are characterized by tissue inflammation in the anal canal which can bring about pain, discomfort and stooling difficulties. The size of inflammation usually varies and may be found inside or outside the anus. It is usually called jedijedi in Yoruba. Haemorrhoids can be classified in grade I to IV depending on the size and location of the haemorrhoids.

What are the Risk Factors of developing Piles?

• Low fibre diet.

• Inadequate intake of water

• If you do a lot of heavy weight lifting, you're prone to having piles.

• Laxative abuse.

• Increase in age.

• Family history of Piles.

• Obesity, etc

What are the Causes of Pile?

Piles are generally caused by an increase in pressure in the lower part of the rectum which may be due to any of the following:

• Chronic constipation

• Chronic diarrhoea

• Pregnancy

• Straining the anus to pass stool

• Heavy weight lifting

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Piles?

• Pain in the anal region which may be associated with a difficulty to pass stool

• Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation after passing stool

• Itchy, red and sore anus

• Painful lump of coagulated blood around the anus.

• Bright red blood is seen after passing stool.

How are Piles treated?

Medications that don't cure but alleviate symptoms of pile are used. Examples include pain relievers in form of tablets, creams, suppositories, or a local anaesthetic, etc; Laxatives to help with constipation; Corticosteroids for inflammation, etc.

Lifestyle modifications such as dietary modifications to a high fibre diet and adequate hydration; Exercise and Weight loss programmes, etc.

Some people with piles may need surgery. Surgical options include haemorrhoidectomy (removal of haemorrhoids), sclerotherapy (involves shrinking of the haemorrhoids), etc.

How can it be Prevented?

• Adequate diet high in fibre such as enough fruits and vegetables

• Adequate fluid intake or hydration

• Avoid abusing laxatives, etc.

Adequate diet and other measures stated above should be put in place to avoid piles. Piles can become complicated, giving rise to anaemia, anal fistula, infections, blood clots, etc.

Till next time, stay healthy and safe.

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