WORLD PILES DAY

Piles or hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins in the rectum and anus that cause discomfort and bleeding.

World Piles Day is observed on 20th November, every year to spread awareness about Hemorrhoids(piles). Hemorrhoids are very common in men and women. About half of the people have noticeable hemorrhoids by the age of 50.

Piles are described in both Old Testament and Buddhist scriptures. Some known mentioning of this affliction are the existence of doctors treating hemorrhoids in Egyptian palaces in 2500 BC, treatment records of both Edwin Smith Papyrus (1700 BC) and Ebers Papyrus (1500 BC), and treatment records in India, China, Greece, and Rome.

Hemorrhoids can develop from increased pressure in the lower rectum due to: Straining during, bowel movements, Sitting for long periods of time on the toilet, Having chronic diarrhea or constipation, Being obese, Being pregnant, Having anal intercourse, Eating a low-fiber diet, Regular heavy lifting

Signs and symptoms of hemorrhoids usually depend on the type of hemorrhoid. External hemorrhoids- Itching or irritation in your anal region, Pain or discomfort, Swelling around your anus, Bleeding. Internal hemorrhoids- Painless bleeding during bowel movements, pain and irritation. Thrombosed hemorrhoids- Severe pain, Swelling, Inflammation, A hard lump near your anus.

Complications of hemorrhoids are rare but include- Anemia, Strangulated hemorrhoid, Blood Clot.

To prevent hemorrhoids and reduce symptoms of hemorrhoids, follow these tips- Eat high-fiber foods, Drink plenty of fluids, Consider fiber supplements, Don't strain, Go as soon as you feel the urge, Exercise, Avoid long periods of sitting.

Treatment consists of diet modifications and laxatives. A high-fiber diet can be effective, along with stool softeners. In some cases, a medical procedure to remove the hemorrhoid may be needed to provide relief.