What Are Piles? A Brief, Patient-Friendly Explanation
Piles, also called haemorrhoids or hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can cause symptoms such as pain, itching, swelling and bleeding during bowel movements. Mild piles can often be managed at home, while more severe piles may require medical treatment.
In this blog, Dr. Varun Kumar J, General and Laparoscopic Surgeon and Laser Proctology Specialist, shares ten best home remedies for piles and his expertise in helping patients manage mild piles safely at home.
1. Eat a High-Fibre Diet
A high-fibre diet is one of the most effective ways to manage piles naturally. Fibre softens stool and helps it pass easily, reducing pressure on swollen veins.
Good fibre sources include oats, vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, flax seeds and chia seeds. Eating fibre consistently prevents constipation and protects the anal area from irritation.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Water keeps the stool soft and prevents hard, painful bowel movements. Dehydration makes constipation worse and increases strain on rectal veins.
Aim for 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to support smooth digestion.
3. Warm Sitz Bath
A warm sitz bath offers quick relief from pain, itching and swelling. Sitting in warm water for 10 to 15 minutes relaxes the anal muscles, reduces inflammation and soothes irritation.
Doing this two or three times a day is especially helpful during flare-ups.
4. Cold Compress or Ice Pack
A cold compress helps shrink swollen veins and temporarily numbs the area, offering quick pain relief. Wrap an ice pack in a clean cloth and apply it for 10 to 15 minutes to reduce swelling and discomfort.
5. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera has natural anti-inflammatory and cooling effects. Applying pure aloe vera gel to the affected area can reduce burning, itching and swelling.
Use natural, fragrance-free aloe vera gel for best results.
6. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil moisturizes irritated skin and reduces swelling. It also provides lubrication during bowel movements, easing discomfort.
For mild piles, applying coconut oil can relieve itching and soreness.
7. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is a natural astringent that helps shrink swollen tissues. It also reduces itching, irritation and minor bleeding.
Apply witch hazel with a cotton pad or use hemorrhoid pads containing witch hazel extract.
8. Avoid Straining During Bowel Movements
Straining increases pressure on rectal veins and worsens piles.
Helpful habits include
- Going to the toilet as soon as you feel the urge
- Avoiding long sitting on the toilet
- Not forcing bowel movements
These habits support healing and prevent irritation
9. Stay Physically Active
Regular physical activity improves digestion and prevents constipation. Sitting for long periods slows bowel movement and increases piles risk.
Walking, yoga and simple stretching for 20 to 30 minutes daily help maintain regular bowel habits and reduce flare-ups.
10. Use Stool Softeners if Needed
If you frequently experience hard stools, occasional use of stool softeners can help. They make bowel movements easier and reduce pain and bleeding.
However, they should not be used daily without medical guidance.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Home remedies help mild piles, but you should seek medical attention if you have
- Continuous bleeding
- Severe pain
- Piles that prolapse outside
- Symptoms lasting longer than a week
- Recurrent piles
Early medical attention prevents complications and ensures proper treatment.
Conclusion
These home remedies are recommended by Dr. Varun Kumar J to help patients find safe, simple and effective relief from mild piles at home. The suggestions shared here reflect the practical home-care guidance he gives individuals looking for natural ways to manage symptoms and prevent piles from worsening.
Simple adjustments in diet, hydration, physical activity and daily habits can make a meaningful difference. If symptoms persist, become severe or fail to improve with home care, seeking timely medical attention is the safest path to long-term recovery.
Reference Links
- What are hemorrhoids?
- Hemorrhoids: Definition and Facts