Piles Treatment (Non Surgical) - Procedure, Cost And Side Effects

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, develop as the blood vessels of the anus and anal canal swell up. The size of piles depends on the extent of inflammation. The condition may occur either inside or outside the anus. Internal piles are located 2 cm to 4 cm inside the anus opening, while external piles occur just around the edge of the anus. Internal piles occur more commonly.

This condition is more common in males and generally affects men who are 25 years and above. In India, more men in cities are affected by this medical problem than in villages.

The symptoms of piles include

• Development of coagulated blood, resulting in a lump near the anus. It can cause severe pain.
• The appearance of blood during a bowel movement.
• Pain and itching near the anus.
• Soreness and redness near the anus.
• Piles generally occur because of excessive spicy food intake. Chronic constipation and diarrhea can also cause piles. Women generally suffer from piles during pregnancy. This problem can also be hereditary and with age the risk of developing this problem increases. The treatment for piles depends on the extent of the condition. Minor problems can be dealt with over the counter medication along with sufficient water intake and consumption of fibrous diet. But in case the condition is severe, surgery is generally required.

Non-surgical piles treatment includes the use of over the counter medicine as well as certain advanced out-patient procedures which effectively help deal with the problem. A proper diet plan and lots of fluid intakes also help deal with piles to a great extent.

Your doctor will start treatment by first suggesting certain lifestyle and dietary changes. Intake of fruits and vegetables is generally increased and body fluid levels need to be maintained. Regular exercises and controlling consumption of caffeine are two of the major principles of the treatment process.

If the piles persist even after incorporating the necessary lifestyle changes, medications may be prescribed. A number of ointments and creams are available to relieve discomfort and reduce swelling. The medicine is generally prescribed for a week. Painkillers and laxatives are also prescribed for relief. In the case of 2nd and 3rd-grade piles, one can opt for sclerotherapy. In this case, an injection is given to help reduce hemorrhoid inflammation. Infrared coagulation is another treatment option, which uses a device that emits infrared rays to burn the piles tissue. Radiofrequency coagulation works in the same manner and degree. A laser treatment, which involves removal or shrinking hemorrhoid through a laser machine, can also be opted for. Non-surgical piles treatment generally helps treat the condition effectively. But if it occurs even after such treatments are undergone, a surgery should be considered.

Any patient who is suffering from piles can opt for non-surgical treatment methods.

Non-surgical procedures (such as the dietary changes) for piles have very little risk involved. Procedures like sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, and laser treatment are associated with risks like bleeding, development of infection and allergic reaction to administered anesthesia. A few individuals also face problems while urinating, but it is temporary.

Non-surgical treatments like sclerotherapy, infrared coagulation, and laser treatment are generally outpatient treatments and an individual can leave the clinic on the very same day. Recovery may take a few days. Even after piles treatment, the diet and lifestyle changes should be adhered to. To prevent the condition from recurring, staying hydrated is very important. Fluid intake should be stepped up and diet should contain plenty of fiber rich foods. Exercise is also essential.

Non-surgical treatments like medicines generally offer relief from piles symptoms, and their effects are immediate. Other forms of non-surgical treatment involve a couple of days or more of recovery post the procedure.

Non-surgical treatment for piles may range from Rs 3000 – Rs 10,000 in India.

Non-surgical treatment for piles is quite effective, however, if the proper dietary and lifestyle changes are not adhered to, piles may recur.

A number of home remedies can be tried to deal with piles. They include-

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV)- Cotton soaked in ACV should be dabbed on the affected area to reduce inflammation and discomfort.
• Coconut oil- Also helps deal with piles symptoms. Constant use can result in the disappearance of hemorrhoids.
• Aloe Vera- Its application effectively helps relieve symptoms.