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Piles: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment & Difference Between Piles & Fissure

Many people do not realise they have piles until discomfort or bleeding appears during bowel movements. Studies indicate that nearly 50% of adults over the age of 50 experience piles at some point in their lives. Despite being common, many individuals delay seeking medical help due to hesitation or confusion about symptoms.

Early consultation with an experienced gastroenterologist in Indirapuram, along with timely lifestyle changes, can prevent piles from progressing and reduce complications. Read on to understand what piles are, their causes, symptoms, treatment options, and how they differ from anal fissures.

What Are Piles?

Piles, medically known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed blood vessels located in or around the anal canal. These veins normally help regulate bowel movements, but excess pressure causes them to enlarge and become symptomatic.

People often ask what piles are in the human body because the condition may develop silently.

  • Internal piles form inside the rectum and usually cause painless bleeding.
  • External piles develop under the skin around the anus and may cause pain, itching, or swelling.

What’s the Main Cause of Piles?

Pressure on the rectal veins remains the most common trigger. Several factors contribute to this pressure over time. Some of the main reasons for piles include: 

  • Chronic constipation or frequent straining during bowel movements
  • Sitting for long periods, especially on the toilet
  • Low-fiber diet and inadequate water intake
  • Pregnancy due to increased abdominal pressure
  • Obesity and lack of physical activity

Many people also wonder is piles hereditary. Family history can increase risk, but lifestyle factors usually play a larger role.

What Are the Common Symptoms?

Symptoms vary based on the type and severity of piles. Some people notice mild discomfort, whereas others experience daily pain.

  • Bright red bleeding during or after bowel movements
  • Pain or burning sensation around the anus
  • Itching or irritation in the anal area
  • Swelling or a lump near the anus
  • Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying

Pain during bowel movements often raises the question of fissure vs piles, as both conditions can cause similar discomfort.

What Are The Key Differences Between Piles and Fissures?

Confusion between piles and fissures is very common. Many patients ask if fissures and piles are the same. These conditions are different, although both affect the anal region. The key differences between anal fissures and piles are summarised in the following table: 

Piles

  • Caused by swollen blood vessels in the anal region

  • Pain is usually mild to moderate

  • Bleeding is common and often painless

  • Itching is common

  • May require medical treatment if symptoms persist

Anal Fissure

  • Caused by a tear in the anal lining

  • Pain is sharp and severe, especially during bowel movements

  • Small amount of bleeding, usually with pain

  • Itching is less common

  • Often heals with proper care and lifestyle changes

Some people also search what is fissure piles, which usually reflects confusion between these two conditions rather than a separate disease.

How Are Piles Treated?

Treatment depends on severity, symptoms, and response to initial care. Early-stage piles often improve without surgery by adopting certain lifestyle habits, such as: 

  • Dietary changes to increase fiber intake and soften stools
  • Adequate hydration to support smooth bowel movements
  • Topical creams to reduce pain, itching, and inflammation
  • Oral medications to relieve discomfort and swelling

Advanced cases may need minimally invasive procedures such as rubber band ligation or laser treatment. Surgery is reserved for severe or recurring piles. A Ghaziabad best hospital for piles offers access to advanced diagnostic tools and safe treatment options under specialist care.

Get Expert Care for Piles and Fissures at Yashoda Medicity! 

Persistent pain or bleeding should never be ignored. If you are planning to consult a Gastroenterologist in Indirapuram, expert evaluation makes a clear difference. For advanced digestive care, consult Yashoda Medicity. We offer accurate diagnosis, modern treatment options, and compassionate care to help you return to daily comfort with confidence. Schedule your appointment to get personalised advice based on your case! 

FAQs

  1. What are piles?
    Piles are swollen blood vessels in the anal canal or lower rectum caused by increased pressure. Internal piles form inside the rectum, while external piles occur under the skin around the anus.
  2. What is the difference between piles and fissure?
    Piles are enlarged blood vessels that cause dull discomfort, itching, and bleeding. Fissures are tears in the anal lining that cause sharp pain during bowel movements.
  3. What are common symptoms of piles?
    Bright red bleeding, pain, itching, swelling, mucus discharge, and a feeling of fullness in the rectum are common symptoms.
  4. How are piles treated?
    Treatment begins with diet changes, hydration, and medications. Procedures such as rubber band ligation or laser therapy may be required in advanced cases. Surgery is considered for severe or recurring piles.
  5. Can piles be prevented?
    Yes. A high-fibre diet, adequate hydration, regular exercise, avoiding prolonged sitting, and not straining during bowel movements help prevent piles.