why do you get piles - #24758
I am really worried about something that’s been bothering me for a while. I started feeling this intense pain when I, um, go to the bathroom. I was trying to ignore it, but the discomfort just got worse, and now it's super painful. Went to the doctor who mentioned I might have piles?! I was just shocked and honestly didn't know how to react. Like, how did I even get this?! I do have some constipation issues, and I mean, sometimes I don’t drink enough water, could that be a factor? Why do you get piles, anyway? Just thinking about how they look, it makes me kinda cringe. I do a lot of sitting at my job, might be affecting things, right? I mean, is there a link between that and why do you get piles? Also, what can I do to make this better, like are there any home remedies? I really don’t want to go through anything invasive, so I’m hoping for some pointers on what might help with piles before it gets worse. Any insights on the causes and how to deal with it? Thanks in advance for your help, really need it.
100% Anonymously
No sign-up needed.

Doctors' responses
Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are essentially swollen blood vessels in the rectal area, and they happen because of increased pressure in the lower rectum. There can be numerous factors contributing to why you might develop piles. Constipation is indeed one of the significant reasons as it can lead to straining during bowel movements, which increases that pressure. Not drinking enough water can exacerbate constipation by making stools harder to pass. Sitting for extended periods of time can also be a culprit because it can increase pressure on those blood vessels, leading to hemorrhoids. A low-fiber diet might also contribute, as it can cause irregular bowel movements. To address piles, incorporating more fiber into your diet is important. Foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help soften the stool, making it easier to pass. You should also aim to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Over-the-counter ointments or creams can provide temporary relief from itchiness and pain associated with piles. Also, soaking in a warm bath can be soothing and promote healing by reducing irritation. It’s important to avoid sitting for too long—try to stand up, stretch, or take short walks regularly if your job involves prolonged sitting. If self-care measures don’t alleviate your symptoms, it’s crucial to follow-up with your healthcare provider as they can recommend additional treatments which may include prescription medications or other interventions that are not necessarily invasive. In severe cases, medical procedures might be considered, but these are generally reserved for when other treatments fail. Remember, ignoring symptoms can lead to complications, so pursuing proper management is critical.
100% Anonymously
Get expert answers anytime, completely confidential. No sign-up needed.
About our doctors
Only qualified doctors who have confirmed the availability of medical education and other certificates of medical practice consult on our service. You can check the qualification confirmation in the doctor's profile.