External piles, also known as external hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower part of the anus and around the outside of the anal opening. They are covered by skin and can sometimes cause discomfort, pain, or itching. External piles may also bleed if they become irritated or inflamed.
Internal piles, also known as internal hemorrhoids, are located inside the rectum, the last part of the large intestine. They are typically painless and may go unnoticed, but they can cause bleeding during bowel movements. If internal piles become enlarged or prolapsed, they can sometimes protrude through the anus and become external piles.
It is important to note that external and internal piles can coexist in the same individual. Some people may have only external piles, while others may have only internal piles. The severity of symptoms and piles treatment options can vary depending on the type and location of the piles.
Symptoms: External Piles v/s Internal piles:
The symptoms associated with external and internal piles can vary depending on the severity and location of the piles. Here are some common symptoms of external piles and internal piles:
Symptoms of external piles:
- Pain or discomfort around the anus
- Swelling or lumps around the anus
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- Mucus discharge from the anus
- A feeling of a lump or bulge near the anus
Symptoms of internal piles:
- Bleeding during bowel movements, often seen as bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
- Discomfort or pain during bowel movements
- Itching or irritation around the anus
- Mucus discharge from the anus
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in the rectum
It’s important to note that not everyone with piles will experience symptoms. Some people may have small, painless piles and may not even know their presence. However, if you experience any of the symptoms above, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Causes: External Piles v/s Internal piles:
External and internal piles share many of the same causes, but there are some differences in how these causes can contribute to the development of each type of piles.
Causes of External Piles:
- Staining during bowel movements due to constipation can pressure the veins around the anus, developing external piles.
- Obesity or being overweight can pressure the veins around the anus and increase the risk of developing external piles.
- Pregnancy can also increase the risk of developing external piles due to increased pressure on the veins in the pelvic area.
- Sitting for long periods can reduce blood flow to the anal area, leading to the development of external piles.
- Genetics can also play a role in developing external piles, as some people may inherit weak veins or poor blood circulation.
Causes of Internal Piles:
- Staining during bowel movements due to constipation can also pressure the veins inside the rectum, developing internal piles.
- Aging can cause the tissues in the anal area to weaken, increasing the risk of developing internal piles.
- Chronic diarrhea or chronic constipation can also put pressure on the veins inside the rectum, leading to the development of internal piles.
- Pregnancy can increase the risk of developing internal piles due to hormonal changes and increased pressure on the veins in the pelvic area.
- Genetics may also play a role in developing internal piles, as some may inherit weak vein walls or poor blood circulation.
While the causes of external and internal piles overlap, the location of the piles can influence which causes are more likely to contribute to their development. Understanding the causes of each type of piles can help individuals take steps to reduce their risk of developing them.
Diagnosis: External Piles v/s Internal piles:
Diagnosing external and internal piles typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare provider. Here are some common methods used to diagnose external and internal piles:
Diagnosis of External Piles:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will visually inspect the area around the anus for any signs of external piles, such as swelling, lumps, or irritation.
- Digital Rectal Exam: In some cases, a healthcare provider may also perform a digital rectal exam to check for any internal piles contributing to the external piles.
Diagnosis of Internal Piles:
- Physical Examination: A healthcare provider will perform a visual inspection of the anus and rectum to check for any signs of internal piles, such as bleeding, inflammation, or protrusions.
- Digital Rectal Exam: A healthcare provider may also perform a digital rectal exam to check for any internal piles or other abnormalities in the rectum.
Colonoscopy: If internal piles are suspected, a healthcare provider may recommend a colonoscopy, which involves using a flexible, lighted tube with a camera to examine the entire colon and rectum for any signs of abnormalities, including piles.
It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect you have external or internal piles. While piles are common, other more serious conditions, such as anal or rectal cancer, can have similar symptoms. A healthcare provider can provide an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment based on your situation.
Piles Treatment: External Piles v/s Internal piles:
Piles treatment for external and internal piles varies based on the severity of the condition, the individual’s symptoms, and other factors. Here are some common treatment options for external and internal piles:
Treatment for External Piles:
- Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can help alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. Topical creams and ointments, such as hydrocortisone, witch hazel, or lidocaine, can relieve itching and pain.
- Home remedies: Applying a cold compress or soaking in a warm bath can help reduce swelling and provide relief. Keeping the area clean and dry can also help prevent infection.
- Lifestyle changes: Increasing fibre intake, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly can help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of developing external piles.
- Medical procedures: In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a medical procedure to remove external piles, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, piles laparoscopic surgery, or piles laser treatment.
Treatment for Internal Piles:
- Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers and topical creams can help alleviate discomfort and itching associated with internal piles.
- Home remedies: Soaking in a warm or sitz bath can help reduce inflammation and provide relief.
- Lifestyle changes: Eating a high-fibre diet, drinking plenty of water, and exercising regularly can help prevent constipation and reduce the risk of developing internal piles.
- Medical procedures: In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend a medical procedure to remove or shrink internal piles, such as rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, piles laparoscopic surgery, or piles laser treatment.
It’s important to consult a piles doctor provider before starting any treatment for external or internal piles. In some cases, piles may be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition, and a healthcare provider can help determine the best course of treatment based on the individual’s situation.
In conclusion, external and internal piles commonly affect the anus and rectum. While they share some symptoms, they differ in location, causes, and treatment options. It’s important to consult a healthcare provider if you suspect you have external or internal piles, as other more serious conditions can have similar symptoms. In many cases, treatment for external or internal piles involves a combination of over-the-counter medications, home remedies, lifestyle changes, and medical procedures. Individuals can manage this common condition and improve their overall quality of life by preventing piles and seeking prompt medical attention.
