Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common condition characterized by swollen blood vessels in and around the anus and rectum. While often uncomfortable, understanding What Is Cause Of Piles can help you take preventive measures and manage symptoms effectively.
Symptoms of Piles
Before diving into the causes, let’s identify the common symptoms of piles:
- Bright red blood after bowel movements
- Itching around the anus
- Feeling of incomplete evacuation after using the toilet
- Mucus discharge from the anus
- Lumps around the anus
- Pain and discomfort around the anus
Alt text: A medical illustration depicting small, pea-sized external hemorrhoids located around the anal opening.
Alt text: Diagram illustrating the appearance of pink and purple hemorrhoids, showing the variation in color due to inflammation and blood flow.
Alt text: A photograph depicting enlarged external hemorrhoids, resembling the size and shape of grapes, protruding from the anus.
What is Cause of Piles?
The exact cause of piles isn’t always clear, but they are essentially swollen blood vessels in the anal and rectal area. Several factors can contribute to their development:
1. Constipation and Straining
Chronic constipation is a significant contributor to piles. When you’re constipated, you strain during bowel movements, which increases pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus. This pressure can cause these veins to swell and become hemorrhoids.
2. Straining During Bowel Movements
Even without chronic constipation, excessive straining during bowel movements can lead to piles. This is particularly true if you spend a long time sitting on the toilet.
3. Heavy Lifting
Regularly lifting heavy objects can put extra pressure on the abdomen and rectum, increasing the risk of developing piles.
4. Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a common trigger for piles. The growing uterus puts pressure on the veins in the lower abdomen and rectum. Hormonal changes during pregnancy can also contribute to the swelling of blood vessels.
Alt text: A pregnant woman gently holding her lower back, illustrating the physical stress and pressure associated with pregnancy that can contribute to the development of hemorrhoids.
5. Other Contributing Factors
While less common, other factors can also play a role in the development of piles:
- Age: Piles are more common as you get older, possibly due to weakening of the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus.
- Chronic Diarrhea: Frequent diarrhea can also irritate the anal area and contribute to hemorrhoid development.
- Obesity: Excess weight can increase pressure on the rectum and anus.
- Prolonged Sitting: Sitting for extended periods, especially on the toilet, can increase pressure in the rectal area.
Treating and Preventing Piles
Understanding what is cause of piles is the first step, but you can also take steps to treat and prevent them:
Lifestyle Changes
- High-Fiber Diet: Eating plenty of fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains helps soften stools and reduces straining.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep stools soft and prevent constipation.
- Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity can help improve bowel regularity and overall health.
- Avoid Straining: Don’t strain during bowel movements. If you can’t go, don’t force it.
- Limit Sitting Time: Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet.
Medical Treatments
- Over-the-Counter Remedies: Pharmacies offer creams, ointments, and suppositories to relieve pain, itching, and swelling.
- Prescription Medications: Your doctor may prescribe stronger medications for pain or inflammation.
- Medical Procedures: If lifestyle changes and medications don’t provide relief, several minimally invasive procedures can treat piles, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or infrared coagulation.
- Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove large or persistent hemorrhoids.
When to See a Doctor
While most piles improve with home treatment, it’s essential to see a doctor if:
- Symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a week of home treatment.
- You experience persistent rectal bleeding.
- You notice a change in bowel habits.
- You have severe pain.
- You have a high fever or pus draining from the anus.
Conclusion
While the precise cause of piles can be multifactorial, understanding the contributing factors like constipation, straining, and pregnancy can empower you to take preventive measures. By adopting a healthy lifestyle and seeking appropriate medical care when needed, you can effectively manage and minimize the impact of piles on your quality of life.
