Piles is another term for hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They contain blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibers. Piles are inflamed and swollen collections of tissue in the anal area. The size of piles can vary, and they are found inside or outside the anus. Hemorrhoids are graded on a scale from I to IV. At grades III or IV, surgery may be necessary.
In the majority of cases, piles resolve on their own without the need for any treatment. However, some treatments can help significantly reduce the discomfort and itching that many people experience with piles.
Piles occur due to chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, lifting heavy weights, pregnancy, or straining when passing a stool. At VSLC, doctor can usually diagnose piles on examination.