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Piles (Hemorrhoids)
Swollen blood vessels in and around the anus that can cause bleeding, itching or a lump. Early piles often improve with diet and medicine, while advanced piles may need a procedure or surgery.
About this condition
Piles (haemorrhoids) are swollen blood vessels inside and around the anus. Swelling outside the anus is called external piles and swelling inside is called internal piles. Common causes include constipation, sitting for long periods, childbirth and a family history of the problem.
Treatment
Early piles almost always improve with dietary changes and medicine. Plenty of fibre-rich food, adequate water and keeping the bowels regular are essential. For moderate to advanced piles, procedures such as banding, resection, sclerotherapy or a laparoscopic method may be used.
Common symptoms
- Bleeding during or after a bowel movement
- Itching and burning around the anus
- A lump of flesh coming out of the anus
- Discomfort after sitting for a long time or after prolonged activity
When to see a doctor
- See a doctor without delay if you bleed after every bowel movement, or the blood is dark and clotted
- If the swelling goes back inside or cannot come out, emergency treatment is needed
- Abdominal pain, nausea or fever alongside piles may mean an infection
Bleeding from the anus can also be caused by colon cancer, so regular check-ups are important.
Related services
Would you like to see a doctor?
Send a request online and the chamber will call to confirm the time. You can also call the chamber directly for a serial.
