03/09/2026
π©Έ HEALTH EDUCATION: PILES (HEMORRHOIDS) π©Έ
Many people experience piles but feel embarrassed to talk about them. Understanding the condition can help you know when to seek medical attention.
πΉ WHAT ARE PILES?
Piles, also called hemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in and around the a**s or lower re**um. They can be internal or external.
π COMMON CAUSES & RISK FACTORS
Piles can develop when there is increased pressure around the veins of the a**s. Common factors include:
β’ Straining during bowel movements
β’ Chronic constipation
β’ Frequent or prolonged sitting on the toilet
β’ Low-fiber diet
β’ Pregnancy
β’ Being overweight
β’ Heavy lifting
β’ Persistent diarrhea
β οΈ COMMON SYMPTOMS
β’ Bright-red blood during or after passing stool
β’ Itching or irritation around the a**s
β’ Pain or discomfort, especially with external piles
β’ A lump or swelling around the a**s
β’ Mucus or irritation
β’ Feeling that you still need to pass stool after going
β POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
When piles become severe or keep recurring, they can sometimes cause:
π©Έ Repeated bleeding β persistent blood loss can occasionally contribute to anaemia.
π£ Thrombosed piles β a blood clot can form in an external hemorrhoid and cause sudden, severe pain and swelling.
π¦ Infection β uncommon, but severe pain, swelling and fever require medical attention.
π Reduced quality of life β ongoing pain, itching, bleeding and discomfort can interfere with work, sleep and daily activities.
π¨ IMPORTANT:
Re**al bleeding should not automatically be assumed to be piles. Other conditions can also cause bleeding.
Seek medical attention if you have heavy or persistent bleeding, severe pain, black stools, dizziness/fainting, fever, or changes in your bowel habits.
πΏ Don't suffer in silence because of embarrassment. Get the right assessment and care.
π¬ Have you or someone you know experienced piles before?
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