PILES

Hemorrhoids or piles are swellings in the anus and lower rectum,  due to chronic       dilatation of the veins in that area associated with inflamed overlying mucosa. The anatomical term "hemorrhoids" technically refers to "'Cushions of tissue filled with blood vessels at the junction of the rectum and the anus. 

   Increased straining during bowel movements, by constipation or diarrhea, may lead to hemorrhoids. It is thus a common condition due to constipation caused by water retention in women experiencing premenstrual syndrome or menstruation.

 Haemorrhoids or Piles is seen in great population especially in urban areas. Improper food, less water, junk food, spending too much of time in toilet etc contribute all to development of piles. Thus avoiding all these should prevent formation of piles.One should try to be close to nature to avoid piles.

Treatment  of piles in most of the cases is conservative (non surgical ). But a check up by a surgeon is needed  in all the cases to rule out other causes of bleeding.

Main indications for surgery are,-1. constant bleeding leading to  drop in haemoglobin.  2. Prolapsed piles posing a risk to strangulation.

Local discomfort is a relative indication for surgical intervention Local discomfort is a relative indication for surgical intervention

 Lastly one should not get carried away by people who talk about Laser Surgery for piles.It is definitely not a treatment modality of choice mentioned in any of the standard textbooks of surgery.