Breaking Down Piles Treatment Options: From Traditional to Modern
Updated on: 4th Jun 2024
Piles, also referred to as hemorrhoids, are swollen blood vessels in the rectal and anal region that cause discomfort, pain, and often, a significant amount of distress. For those suffering from piles, finding relief can be a major concern. Fortunately, the advancements in medical science have given rise to a variety of treatment options, ranging from traditional home remedies to cutting-edge modern procedures. Rohtak Bawasir Hospital specializes in treating piles using both time-tested methods and innovative techniques, ensuring that patients receive personalized and effective care.
Understanding Piles: Types and Symptoms
Before diving into treatment options, it’s crucial to understand the nature of piles and the symptoms associated with them. There are two main types of hemorrhoids:
- Internal Hemorrhoids: These occur inside the rectum and are often painless, though they may cause bleeding during bowel movements.
- External Hemorrhoids: Located outside the anal opening, these can be painful, especially when thrombosed (filled with clotted blood), and can cause significant discomfort.
Symptoms of piles include:
- Itching or irritation around the anal area
- Pain or discomfort
- Swelling around the anus
- Bleeding during bowel movements
- A lump near the anus, which may be sensitive or painful
Traditional Treatment Options
Traditional approaches to piles treatment often involve natural remedies, lifestyle changes, and minimally invasive procedures aimed at managing symptoms rather than directly addressing the underlying condition. Let’s look at some of the most common traditional treatments.
1. Dietary Changes and Hydration
A high-fiber diet is one of the most effective ways to manage and prevent piles. Fiber softens the stool, making it easier to pass, which helps reduce straining during bowel movements—a major cause of hemorrhoids. Some of the best sources of fiber include:
- Whole grains (brown rice, oats)
- Vegetables (broccoli, carrots)
- Fruits (apples, pears)
- Legumes (beans, lentils)
In addition to fiber, staying well-hydrated is equally important. Drinking plenty of water ensures that the digestive system functions smoothly, further preventing constipation and strain during bowel movements.
2. Topical Treatments and Ointments
Many traditional treatments for piles involve over-the-counter creams, ointments, or suppositories. These products are designed to reduce swelling, relieve itching, and soothe the discomfort caused by hemorrhoids. Some of the active ingredients found in these products include:
- Hydrocortisone: A steroid that reduces inflammation and itching.
- Witch Hazel: Known for its astringent properties, witch hazel helps reduce pain and swelling.
Though these topical treatments offer temporary relief, they are not a cure for piles and may need to be used in conjunction with other treatment methods.
3. Sitz Baths
A sitz bath involves soaking the anal region in warm water for 15 to 20 minutes several times a day. This can help alleviate discomfort, reduce swelling, and promote healing, especially for external hemorrhoids. Sitz baths are particularly useful for relieving post-surgical pain or after procedures like rubber band ligation (more on this later).
4. Herbal Remedies
Herbal treatments have been used for centuries to treat piles, especially in traditional Ayurvedic medicine. Some popular herbal remedies include:
- Aloe Vera: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera can be applied topically to soothe external hemorrhoids.
- Horse Chestnut: Taken as a supplement, horse chestnut is believed to strengthen veins and reduce inflammation, making it beneficial for hemorrhoids.
- Psyllium Husk: A natural fiber supplement that helps in softening stools and preventing constipation.
While these remedies can provide relief, their efficacy may vary from person to person, and they are often used alongside more conventional treatment options.
Non-Surgical Minimally Invasive Options
Traditional treatments can often manage mild piles, but for more severe cases, non-surgical and minimally invasive options are highly effective. These methods are less invasive than surgery, offering quick relief with minimal downtime. Rohtak Bawasir Hospital offers a range of such treatments to meet the needs of individual patients.
1. Rubber Band Ligation
Rubber band ligation is one of the most popular non-surgical treatments for internal hemorrhoids. The procedure involves placing a small rubber band around the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting off its blood supply. As a result, the hemorrhoid shrinks and eventually falls off, usually within a week.
- Advantages: Quick, minimally invasive, and highly effective for small to medium-sized hemorrhoids.
- Disadvantages: Some patients may experience mild discomfort or a feeling of pressure after the procedure, but this is temporary.
2. Sclerotherapy
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a chemical solution into the hemorrhoid to shrink it. The solution causes the blood vessels to collapse and eventually be reabsorbed by the body. This treatment is typically used for smaller internal hemorrhoids.
- Advantages: Minimally invasive and can be performed in an outpatient setting.
- Disadvantages: May require multiple sessions, depending on the severity of the hemorrhoids.
3. Infrared Coagulation (IRC)
IRC uses infrared light to generate heat, cutting off the blood flow to the hemorrhoid and causing it to shrink. This technique is especially effective for early-stage internal hemorrhoids and is quick and relatively painless.
- Advantages: Minimally invasive, no incisions required, and quick recovery.
- Disadvantages: May not be suitable for larger hemorrhoids or external hemorrhoids.
Modern Treatment Options
Advances in medical technology have revolutionized the treatment of piles, providing long-lasting relief with minimal risk and discomfort. These modern options are available at Rohtak Bawasir Hospital, and they represent the latest in hemorrhoid treatment innovation.
1. Laser Treatment for Piles
Laser treatment is one of the most advanced methods for treating piles. During the procedure, a focused laser beam is used to remove the hemorrhoids or reduce their size by cutting off the blood supply. Laser treatment is highly precise, targeting only the affected tissue while leaving surrounding healthy tissue intact.
- Advantages: Minimal pain, less bleeding, quick recovery, and reduced risk of infection.
- Disadvantages: Laser treatment may be more expensive than traditional methods, though its long-term benefits often justify the cost.
2. Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (PPH)
Stapled hemorrhoidopexy, also known as Procedure for Prolapse and Hemorrhoids (PPH), is a surgical technique that involves using a circular stapling device to reposition and remove hemorrhoidal tissue. Unlike traditional hemorrhoidectomy, PPH repositions the hemorrhoids and reduces their blood supply without removing them entirely.
- Advantages: Less post-operative pain, quicker recovery compared to traditional surgery, effective for prolapsed hemorrhoids.
- Disadvantages: Requires anesthesia, and while it offers faster recovery, it may not be suitable for all types of hemorrhoids.
3. Hemorrhoid Artery Ligation (HAL)
Hemorrhoid artery ligation, also known as Doppler-guided hemorrhoidal artery ligation, is a modern technique used to treat larger hemorrhoids. During the procedure, the surgeon uses a Doppler probe to locate the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoid and ties them off, causing the hemorrhoid to shrink.
- Advantages: Minimally invasive, fewer complications compared to traditional surgery, effective for larger hemorrhoids.
- Disadvantages: While recovery is faster than traditional surgery, some patients may still experience mild discomfort post-procedure.
4. Traditional Hemorrhoidectomy
Though less common today due to the availability of less invasive procedures, traditional hemorrhoidectomy remains a highly effective treatment for large or severely prolapsed hemorrhoids. In this procedure, the hemorrhoid is surgically removed, providing long-term relief.
- Advantages: Highly effective for chronic or severe hemorrhoids.
- Disadvantages: Longer recovery time, with post-surgical pain lasting several weeks.
Conclusion
The journey to piles relief is no longer daunting, thanks to the wide array of treatment options available today. From traditional methods like dietary changes and herbal remedies to advanced procedures like laser treatment and hemorrhoid artery ligation, patients can find effective solutions tailored to their specific needs.
At Rohtak Bawasir Hospital, we’re committed to providing expert care using both time-honored and modern techniques to help patients break free from the discomfort of piles. Whether you’re looking for conservative management or cutting-edge surgery, our team is here to guide you on your path to recovery.
Meet Our Specialists
Dr. Raj Kumar Garg (B.A.M.S.)
40+ Years of Experience
Dr. Rahul Garg (B.A.M.S.)
15+ Years of Experience
