Proctology
Proctology is the medical specialty concerned with the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the colon, rectum, and anus. Our proctologists provide effective, minimally invasive treatments for conditions affecting the anorectal region to restore patient well-being.
Piles (Hemorrhoids)
About Piles (Hemorrhoids)
Piles, medically known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus, similar to varicose veins. They develop when increased pressure stretches the blood vessels, causing them to bulge. Hemorrhoids can be internal (occur inside the rectum) or external (occur under the skin around the anus). Hemorrhoids are extremely common, affecting about 50% of adults by age 50.
Grades of Internal Hemorrhoids
Grade 1
Small, inside anal canal, may bleed.
Grade 2
Protrude during bowel movements but return inside on their own.
Grade 3
Protrude and need manual pushing back.
Grade 4
Permanently prolapsed, cannot be pushed back; may become strangulated.
External Hemorrhoids
May form thrombosed lumps (blood clots) that are painful.
Symptoms
- Bright red blood on toilet paper or in stool
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Pain or discomfort during bowel movements
- Lumps or swelling near the anus
- Leakage of feces or mucus
- Feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation
- Prolapsed tissue visible outside the anus
Risk Factors
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea
- Low-fiber diet
- Age over 50 (weakened tissues)
- Pregnancy and childbirth
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle or prolonged sitting
- Anal intercourse
- Liver disease or portal hypertension
- Family history of hemorrhoids
Modern Treatment Advantages
- Multiple treatment options tailored to severity
- Minimally invasive techniques available
- Laser and Doppler-guided procedures reduce pain and recovery time
- High success rates with modern approaches
- Quick return to normal activities
- Minimal scarring with advanced techniques
Prevention Tips
Eat a high-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains). Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily. Exercise regularly to prevent constipation. Avoid straining and prolonged sitting on the toilet. Go to the bathroom as soon as you feel the urge. Maintain a healthy weight. Practice good hygiene and avoid heavy lifting.
When to Consult a Doctor
Emergency: Severe pain or large amounts of rectal bleeding. Consultation: Bleeding lasting more than a week, dark/tarry stool, persistent symptoms not relieved by home care, severe pain not responding to over-the-counter treatments, or first-time bleeding after age 40. Most hemorrhoids respond to conservative treatment including fiber supplements, stool softeners, warm baths, and topical treatments. Persistent or severe cases may require procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or surgical removal.