What are Piles (Haemorrhoids)?
Piles or hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus and lower rectum. It is painful and bleeding bulges. They can happen both to men and women but women have more additional risk factors such as hormonal changes, pregnancy, and lifestyle factors. Knowing the signs and symptoms of piles in women will help women to detect them early and aid in treatment.
Classification of Piles:
Internal piles: Internal bleeding of the anus which is located inside the rectum. This normally does not cause pain but can result in overinduration.
External piles: Development of blisters on the skin bordering the anus, which can cause pain and itchiness.
Why Women Are More Prone To Piles ?
Pregnant women have a heightened chance for developed for piles due to:
- Increased weight on pelvic veins from the enlarged uterus.
- Strain out while giving birth can trigger or worsen dark rings under eyes.
- Hormonal Fluctuations during periods or menopause may influence how easily feces can pass out of the body.
- Chronic forms of constipation along with an unbalanced diet common among women.
- Altering Sitting posture.
Common Symptoms of Piles in Women
- Rectal Bleeding
Bleeding inside anus adds pressure and bright red blood can be seen on the stool, and in the toilet’s water.
- Discomfort or Painful Defecation:
Discomfort during passing stools may be light, moderate, or strong stabbing pain.
Commonly experienced with external piles or thrombosed hemorrhoids (blood clot formation).
- Increased Itching in the Anal Area
Due to inflammatory discharge, there can be persistent anal itch which can also make moving difficult.
- Bump and Swelling
Bump & Swelling around the anus indicate external hemorrhoids. This can cause tenderness while passing stools.
- Mucus Discharge
Mucus may be clear or yellow and can be seen on clothes or toilet paper. This can also cause irritation.
- An empty-retaining pressure in Anal Canal
Still feeling empty in the anus cavity after defecation is common and refers to internal piles.
- Anal heaviness
Routine use of the toilet can cause pressure or heaviness around the anal area, these symptoms may worsen when ignoring for a prolonged time.
- Prolapse of Hemorrhoid
Advanced stages may lead to internal hemorrhoid bulging out (Prolapse) during stool evocation. These may need assistance, through self-retraction or manual squeezing.
How Are Piles Diagnosed in Women?
The diagnosis of piles may involve taking medical history, physical examination, and in some cases, using diagnostic tests.
| Method | Purpose |
| Medical History | Understand symptoms and triggers like Pain or itching, bleeding during bowel movements, bowel habits like constipation, straining. |
| Physical Exam | Detecting external or internal piles where external piles are visible around the anus and internal piles can be detected with a DRE (Digital Rectal Exam) |
| Digital Rectal Exam(DRE) | DRE is a gloved finger gently inserted into the rectum to feel for internal swelling or lumps. |
| Anoscopy/Proctoscopy | A small lighted tube is used to inspect internal piles more closely. It helps in checking the size, severity or any other issue. |
| Further Test | In case of heavy bleeding or ageing, some other tests are done to avoid any serious condition. |
These investigations allow for the differentiation of piles from other anal pathologies like anal fissures, infections, or even tumors.
How to Differentiate Piles from Other Conditions?
Piles symptoms can sometimes associate with other conditions like anal fissures, infections, or even some colorectal concerns. However, some differences include:
| Symptom | Piles | Anal Fissure | Colorectal Concern |
| Pain during stool | Yes | Intense, sharp pain | Possible |
| Bleeding | Bright red | Small amounts | May vary |
| Lump/swelling | Yes | Rare | Rare |
| Itching | Common | Rare | Uncommon |
In case these symptoms are experienced and do not go away or become more severe, it’s suggestive to see a doctor regarding a possible diagnosis.
When To Seek a Doctor’s Advice?
- Bleeding is frequent or heavy
- Intense persistent pain
- Soft tissue goes hard and stays like that
- Changes in excretion habits
- No relief from symptoms on self-medicating
However, if one’s condition is unbearable, you might need to check with a piles specialist like Dr. Kapil Agarwal for effective and best piles treatment in Delhi. If you are experiencing mild to severe symptoms of piles longer than two weeks, consider getting the best piles and hemorrhoid treatment at Habilite Clinics, Delhi.
What Are the Other Treatment Options for Piles in Women?
There is no one method to treat all cases. It ranges from a change in lifestyle to undergo surgery to remedy the problem.
- Medicine Solutions
Topical Creams and Ointments: Witch hazel or hydrocortisone with ointments that will aid in itching and reduce inflammation.
Suppositories: Assists in soothing the internal discomfort associated with piles.
- Non-Surgical Medical Treatments
Rubber Band Ligation: A procedure in which a rubber band is placed around the underlying section of an internal pile to restrict blood circulation.
Sclerotherapy: The technique of injecting a chemical solution into the pile for the purpose of shrinking it.
Infrared Coagulation (IRC): Internal piles are reduced by using the heat emitted from infrared light.
- Surgical Options
Hemorrhoidectomy: The complete surgical excision of piles is done in the most severe instances.
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: The procedure involves stapling the piles to restrict blood flow to them.
Laser treatment: A type of surgery that results in faster recovery time and less pain, as it is less invasive than traditional methods.
- Preventive Medical Care
Regular check-ups, in addition to early medical intervention, can prevent piles from worsening.
Natural Remedies for Persistent Piles in Women
These may include some home-based and natural therapies to alleviate symptoms and enhance healing.
- Warm Sitz Baths: Soaking of the anal region in warm water between 2 to 3 times a day to alleviate pain and swelling.
- Cold Compresses: The application of ice packs for the reduction of inflammation.
- Aloe Vera: The use of pure Aloe Vera gel can soothe irritation when applied to the affected area.
- Witch Hazel: Works as a natural astringent to help diminish swelling.
- Coconut Oil: Used to assist in keeping the skin supple and reducing itching.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (Diluted): Caution is necessary when using this for diminished inflammation.
- High-fiber diet: Prevents the occurrence of constipation and straining.
- Hydration: Assists in maintaining proper stool consistency and prevent constipation.
- Herbal Supplements: Help maintain veins’ well-being: Butcher’s broom, horse chestnut, and calendula.
- Exercise: Aids in the proper functioning of the digestive system and relieves strain on the rectal veins.
Note: Natural treatments are most effective for mild symptoms and should always be used in consultation with a doctor.
How to Prevent Piles in Women
Unlike other conditions, piles can easily be controlled by practicing proper preventive measures at an early stage.
Diet And Hydration
- Incorporate fiber rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains into diet.
- Drink at least 8 glasses of water daily.
Lifestyle
- Avoid Constipation
- Don’t hold back when feeling the urge to go.
- Regular exercises aid in proper digestion.
- Refrain from straining yourself during bowel movements.
- Limit time spent sitting on the toilet.
- Curb weight to lessen strain on the veins.
Hygiene
- Opt for moist tissues instead of dry toilet paper.
- Use non-irritating soap without fragrance.
Extra for Pregnant Women
- Avoid excessive weight gain during pregnancy.
- Include more fiber into meals.
- Kegel exercises boost the blood flow to the uterus and pelvic area.
- Less pressure is placed on the pelvic veins when lying down, especially the left side.
Conclusion
Due to hormonal and physical reasons, piles in women is quite common but not openly talked about. Early symptoms like bleeding, itching, or wales should be recognized in order to seek timely required medical attention. A proper diet, recommended lifestyle changes, and professional medical advice helps in effective rehabilitation, ultimately attaining comfort as well as a good manageable life.
For tailored attention to help you with and adopt a healthier lifestyle, schedule an appointment with Dr. Kapil Agrawal and his team of experts at Habilite Clinics.
