Piles, medically known as hemorrhoids, are swollen and inflamed veins in the lower rectum and anus. With today’s sedentary lifestyle, irregular eating habits and stress, piles are becoming increasingly common.
They can be internal or external, often resulting from chronic constipation, straining, or prolonged sitting. While not usually serious, piles can affect daily life and require lifestyle changes, medication, or medical treatment for relief.
Causes of Piles:
• Some of the major factors that contribute to the development of piles include:
1. Chronic constipation and straining during stool. 2 . Prolonged sitting, especially on hard surfaces. 3 . Low-fiber diet. 4 . Obesity 5 . Genetic tendency
What are the Symptoms of Piles ?
The presentation of piles can vary depending on severity, but common symptoms are:
Bleeding during or after stool.
Painful or painless swelling near the anus.
Itching, irritation and discomfort in the anal region.
Mucous discharge from the anal region. Sensation of incomplete evacuation of stool .
Types of Piles
Internal piles: Found inside the rectum, usually painless but may cause bleeding. External piles: Found under the skin around the anus, often painful, bleeding and itchy, leading to discomfort while sitting. Thrombosed piles: A blood clot forms inside, causing severe pain and swelling.
Homeopathic Perspective on Piles
Homeopathic medicines work in hemorrhoids mainly by strengthening veins, reducing vascular leakage, controlling inflammation, and minimizing edema. Together, these actions relieve swelling, pain, and bleeding commonly seen in hemorrhoids. Homeopathy views piles not just as a local complaint, but as a reflection of internal imbalance. The approach is holistic—focusing on treating the root cause along with providing symptomatic relief. Commonly Indicated Homeopathic Remedies for Piles: 1. Aesculus hippocastanum – For piles with severe backache, dryness, and a sensation of sharp sticks in the rectum. 2. Hamamelis virginiana – Effective in bleeding piles where blood is dark and profuse. 3. Nux vomica – For piles associated with sedentary lifestyle, constipation, ineffectual urge, and excessive intake of stimulants like coffee or alcohol. 4. Sulphur – Burning, itching, and pain in the anus; often for chronic cases.
5. Collinsonia canadensis – For painful, obstinate constipation with piles during pregnancy. 6. Aloe socotrina – For protruding piles with mucous like discharge