Piles, also called haemorrhoids, are one of the most common health problems seen in adults. Many people feel embarrassed to talk about piles, but it is a very treatable condition. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you manage it early and avoid complications.
As a Family Physician in Thrissur, Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil often meets patients who silently suffer from piles for months. With the right guidance, proper diagnosis, and early care, most people recover well without any major procedures.
In this blog, we explain what piles are, why they occur, and how they can be treated effectively.
What Are Piles?
Piles are swollen blood vessels in the lower part of the rectum or anus. They can be inside the anal canal (internal piles) or outside the opening (external piles). These swollen veins cause discomfort, itching, pain, or bleeding during bowel movements.
Piles can affect anyone. But lifestyle changes, stress, and eating habits have made them more common today. A timely visit to a General Physician Thrissur can help diagnose piles at an early stage.
Types of Piles:
Piles are usually classified into two main types:
- Internal Piles: These are located inside the rectum. They usually do not cause pain but may cause bleeding. In some cases, they may come out during passing stools.
- External Piles: These are under the skin around the anus. They can cause pain, swelling, itching, and irritation. Sometimes, they may develop clots, leading to severe discomfort.
What Causes Piles?
Piles develop when pressure increases on the rectal veins. Some common causes include:
- Chronic constipation
- Straining during bowel movements
- Sitting for long hours
- Low-fibre diet
- Chronic cough
- Obesity
- Pregnancy
- Family history
People with long-term health issues like diabetes or other chronic conditions may be more prone to piles. This is why proper Chronic Disease Management in Thrissur is important to reduce the risk of complications.
Common Symptoms of Piles:
The symptoms depend on the type and severity of piles. Some common signs are:
- Bright red bleeding during passing stools
- Pain or discomfort around the anus
- Swelling or a tender lump near the anal opening
- Itching or irritation
- Mucus discharge
- Feeling of incomplete bowel emptying
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to meet a doctor. Ignoring piles can worsen the condition.
How Are Piles Diagnosed?
A clinical examination is usually enough for diagnosis. For internal piles, the doctor may perform a digital rectal exam or use a small instrument to check the rectum.
At Elixir Clinic, West Fort, Thrissur, Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil provides a comfortable and private environment for examination and consultation. Early diagnosis helps avoid complications and reduces the need for invasive procedures.
Treatment Options for Piles:
Piles treatment depends on the stage and severity of the condition. Many patients recover with simple lifestyle changes and medicines. Advanced cases may need medical procedures.
Here are the main treatment options:
1. Lifestyle and Diet Changes:
This is the first and most important step. Simple changes can reduce symptoms and prevent piles from recurring.
- Eat more fibre-rich foods
- Drink 2–3 litres of water daily
- Avoid straining while passing stools
- Do not sit on the toilet for long
- Exercise daily
- Maintain a healthy weight
These changes also support overall digestive health and help in managing chronic conditions.
2. Medications:
Your doctor may prescribe:
- Pain-relief creams
- Anti-inflammatory medicines
- Stool softeners
- Ointments to reduce swelling
Medicines help control symptoms. But lifestyle changes are needed for long-term relief.
3. Minimally Invasive Procedures:
If symptoms do not improve with medicines, your doctor may suggest simple procedures like:
- Rubber band ligation
- Sclerotherapy
- Infrared coagulation
These methods are safe, quick, and usually done on an outpatient basis. There is minimal pain and fast recovery.
4. Surgical Treatment:
Surgery is recommended when piles are large, severely painful, or keep recurring. Options include:
- Hemorrhoidectomy
- Stapled hemorrhoidopexy
A good General Physician Thrissur will guide you on when surgery is needed and refer you to the right specialist if required.
Can Piles Be Prevented?
Yes, piles can often be prevented with healthy habits. Some preventive steps include:
- Eating a balanced, high-fibre diet
- Drinking enough water
- Avoiding long sitting hours
- Exercising regularly
- Not delaying bowel movements
- Managing chronic diseases
Prevention is easier than treatment. As a Family Physician in Thrissur, Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil focuses on preventive care to help patients avoid recurrent piles.
Why Choose Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil for Piles Management in Thrissur?
Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil is a trusted and experienced Family Physician in Thrissur known for her patient-centred and compassionate care. She has over 5 years of clinical experience, including more than 3 years in Family Medicine, and has treated many patients with digestive problems and lifestyle-related diseases. Her strong medical background, including an MBBS and a Post Graduate Diploma in Family Medicine from CMC Vellore, helps her provide accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
At Elixir Clinic, West Fort, Thrissur, Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil offers complete and personalised care for piles. She focuses not just on treating symptoms but also on understanding the root cause of the problem. This helps patients get long-term relief.
She provides:
- Detailed and comfortable consultation: She listens patiently, understands your symptoms, and explains the condition in simple words.
- Personalised treatment plans: Treatment is customised based on your stage of piles, lifestyle, and medical history.
- Diet and lifestyle guidance: She shares easy and practical tips to improve digestion and avoid constipation, which is the main cause of piles.
- Preventive care to avoid recurrence: She helps patients maintain healthy habits so that piles do not come back.
- Support for related health issues: She manages conditions like constipation, obesity, diabetes, and other chronic diseases that may worsen piles.
Her gentle approach and clear communication make patients feel comfortable discussing sensitive issues like piles. This is why many people consider her one of the best doctors in Thrissur for family and general health concerns.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should seek medical help if you have:
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- Severe pain
- A swelling that does not go away
- Symptoms that keep recurring
Do not ignore piles. Early treatment gives faster relief and prevents complications.
Conclusion:
Piles are common but treatable. Understanding the symptoms, causes, and treatment options can help you take timely action. Simple lifestyle changes, medicines, and minimally invasive treatments can provide long-term relief.
If you are looking for expert care, Dr. Vinaya Thekkethil – Family Physician in Thrissur offers personalised treatment for piles and other digestive issues. With experience in Chronic Disease Management in Thrissur, she helps patients achieve complete and long-term recovery.
For consultation or booking an appointment, you can visit Elixir Clinic, West Fort, Thrissur, or call 90371 19090.
