Medically termed as haemorrhoids, piles occur as a result of inflammation with painful swollen veins in the lower portion of the rectum and anus. This is usually a result of excess pressure on the blood vessels of the abdominal or pelvic area.
Piles vary from almost unnoticeable first degree piles to painful fourth degree piles which might require surgery. Internal piles aren’t painful, but if left untreated can develop into chronic external piles with a lump protruding out of the anus.

We asked Dr. S.P.S. Bakshi about the causes of piles. He said that the prevalence of piles has a direct connection with our lifestyle. Lack of fibre in food, thanks to our love for junk food, increased use of alcohol and caffeine, and obesity can be predisposing factors for exciting the condition of piles. Other causes of piles may include genes, chronic constipation, diarrhoea, anal infection, pregnancy, old age etc.

Piles can mimic anal fistulae or anal fissure in its symptoms and it is always prudent.

To visit a doctor to get a proper diagnosis.

Left untreated, it may complicate and become a cause of iron deficiency anaemia, infection, ulceration or thrombosis of haemorrhoids.

There are a few simple ways to avoid or provide relief in case of piles. First and foremost, it is important to keep yourself hydrated. Drink lots of water, juices and other healthy fluids. Avoid spicy food items. What's good for the palate might trouble you in the morning. Avoid indiscriminate use of laxatives. Allow your body to function naturally.

In case you have contracted piles, try and discipline your lifestyle to keep the condition from worsening. Avoid oily and heavy food items like fried food, samosa, sweets (meethai), pastries, ham, pakora, puri, omelette, dry fruits, chocolates, parantha, vada (bhalla), kheer, halva etc.

Also avoid gas producing food like arbi, rajma, kadhi, bhindi etc. It is also prudent to avoid irregular meals and unnecessary snacks.

How does Homoeopathy help in Piles?

Homoeopathy follows the law of elimination in which it eliminates the root causes like improper digestion which leads to constipation and hence improper and painful bowel movements. It also tries to treat obesity, another root cause, while soothing irritation of anal and rectal veins and relieving the inflammation of gastrointestinal tract.

COMMONLY USED MEDICINES ARE :

• Aesculus Hippocastanum 30: Haemorrhoids, with sharp shooting pain up the back; blind and bleeding piles.
• Aloe Socotrina 30: Haemorrhoids protrude like grapes; very sore and tender; relief with application of cold water.
• AC# 7 Tablets for persistent constipation that may culminate into piles. Take 3 tablets at bed time.
• Pilgo Tablets: Relieve piles and eases engorged haemorrhoidal veins. Take 2 tablets, 3 times a day and when bleeding stops take 1 tablet twice daily.
• Biochemic Combination Tablet # 17for piles, take 4 tablets 4 times a day.
• Dr. Bakshi's # B 9 Haemorrhoidal Drops: Helps relieve haemorrhoids with anal itching and profuse bleeding. Take 10-15 drops, diluted with water 3 times a day.

All medicines are to be taken under the guidance of a Registered Homoeopathic Medical Practitioner.