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Sri Venus Gastro & Liver HospitalSri VenusGastro & Liver
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Condition

Piles / Hemorrhoids

Painful or bleeding piles — proper evaluation, grading, and treatment.

Overview

Piles (haemorrhoids) are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They're very common, especially with constipation, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting, and cause bleeding, itching, or pain. Most cases respond to lifestyle changes and medication, but stubborn or severe piles may need a procedure. Rectal bleeding always needs evaluation to rule out other causes — even when piles seem the obvious answer.

Common symptoms

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the bowl after passing stool
  • Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
  • Itching or irritation around the anus
  • Swelling or a lump near the anus
  • Feeling of incomplete emptying
  • Mucous discharge from the anus

When to see a doctor

Any rectal bleeding deserves evaluation — even when it seems clearly from piles, other causes (fistula, fissure, IBD, polyps, cancer) must be ruled out. Severe pain, a hard lump that won't reduce, prolapsing piles, or bleeding that doesn't settle within a few days warrants prompt assessment.

How we help

We examine the area clinically, perform sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy when needed to confirm piles and rule out other causes, and grade severity. Most patients improve with dietary fibre, stool softeners, topical treatments, and bowel-habit changes. For grade 2–3 piles, we offer in-office procedures (rubber band ligation) and refer for minimally invasive surgical options when needed.

This is general information, not a substitute for medical advice. For guidance specific to your case, please consult Dr. Ch. Saikumar or another qualified specialist.

Patient questions

Piles / Hemorrhoids — common questions

Answers to the questions we hear most often about piles / hemorrhoids.

Will piles go away on their own?
Mild piles often improve with dietary fibre, fluids, and topical treatments. Larger or recurring piles usually don't resolve without a procedure — but procedures are typically quick, in-office, and effective.
When is surgery needed for piles?
For Grade 3–4 piles (prolapsing, severe), or piles that haven't responded to dietary changes and in-office procedures like rubber band ligation. Modern minimally-invasive techniques have made surgery less painful with faster recovery.
What's the difference between piles and an anal fistula?
Piles are swollen veins around the anus. A fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the bowel and the skin near the anus. They can cause similar symptoms (drainage, pain) but need very different treatment, which is why proper examination matters.
Are piles dangerous?
Piles themselves aren't dangerous, but rectal bleeding always deserves evaluation — fistula, fissure, IBD, polyps, and colon cancer can cause similar symptoms. Don't assume rectal bleeding is 'just piles' without examination.
Will sitting too much cause piles?
Prolonged sitting is one of several risk factors, alongside constipation, low-fibre diet, pregnancy, and family history. Standing up regularly and treating constipation help reduce flare-ups.
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