
Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are caused by swollen veins. When they are formed in the lower rectum, they are called internal haemorrhoids and when they form around the anus, they are called external haemorrhoids. Sometimes internal haemorrhoids become large and push out through the anus forming a prolapsed haemorrhoids. Pain, itching and bleeding are the common symptoms of haemorrhoids.
Haemorrhoids are so common that nearly everyone has some opinion about it. There are numerous myths floating around about piles and this may confuse you.
Here we debunk some of the most common myths about haemorrhoids.
Myth1
Old people only get piles.
Fact
Though older people have a higher risk of getting haemorrhoids, young people and even children can get haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are caused due to excessive straining on the toilet due to constipation, diarrhoea, sitting too long on the toilet, pregnancy and labour. Stress too can lead to a flareup of piles. Any person having the above conditions can develop haemorrhoids irrespective of how old they are.
Myth 2
Haemorrhoids are permanent.
Fact
Haemorrhoids can get better in a week by changing your lifestyle. If symptoms do not improve in a week, you should consult a doctor. There are many treatments available for piles. You can cure existing haemorrhoids with suitable treatment and then prevent further flareups by making changes in your lifestyle.
Myth 3
Spicy foods can cause piles.
Fact
Spicy foods will not cause piles, but they can worsen the symptoms of piles as they irritate the intestine and the anal canal.
Myth 4
Piles can be caused by sitting on too hot or too cold surfaces.
Fact
Sitting anywhere on anything for long periods can cause piles, not the temperature of your seat.
Myth 5
You should not exercise when you have haemorrhoids.
Fact
You should always be active because exercise is good for preventing and healing haemorrhoids. Light exercise such as walking, yoga, swimming etc are good if you have haemorrhoids, but you should strictly avoid lifting weights, as it will worsen the condition.
What is true about haemorrhoids is that it can get better with a fibre-rich diet and adequate water intake. Staying active and avoiding sitting in a place for long periods decrease the risk of developing piles.
If you do have Haemorrhoids, it is nothing to be embarrassed about. It is just a medical condition. If your symptoms don’t get better in a week, you should consult a doctor before they become severe. Talk to our experienced doctor to get clarity. With the right treatment, you can get back to your normal life very quickly.