Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can develop inside the rectum (internal hemorrhoids) or under the skin around the anus (external hemorrhoids).
Types of Piles
Internal Hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum and usually cannot be seen or felt. They are typically painless but may cause bleeding during bowel movements. If they protrude through the anal opening and become enlarged, they may cause discomfort or pain.
External Hemorrhoids
These hemorrhoids develop under the skin around the anus. They can be felt as lumps or bulges and may cause pain, itching, or irritation, especially during bowel movements. External hemorrhoids can also bleed if irritated.
Thrombosed Hemorrhoids
When blood pools in an external hemorrhoid and forms a clot, it becomes a thrombosed hemorrhoid. These can be extremely painful and may appear as a hard lump near the anus. Thrombosed hemorrhoids often resolve on their own but may require medical treatment, such as drainage, if the pain is severe.
