Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, is an embarrassing subject to discuss with the doctor, but it shouldn’t be. Nowadays, piles have become an extremely common condition, and approximately 75% of people fall prey to the same.
It is characterised by swollen blood vessels in your rectum if put under high enough pressure. The common reasons for piles include constipation or hard stools, sitting on the toilet bowl for long intervals, and pregnancy. Regardless of the causes and treatments available for this condition, many myths revolve around it.
This article throws light on the common myths about piles and their facts!
Piles is a Permanent Health Condition
Many people believe piles to be a permanent condition; however, it is not. The haemorrhoids tend to get larger and more problematic over time. However, they are easy to treat. The first important thing here is to watch for the symptoms. If they worsen, contact your healthcare provider.
If symptoms or lifestyle changes fail to improve your condition, the doctor will provide you with suitable medication to treat it. Depending on the severity of your condition, they may choose from the many treatment options. In either case, delays may lead to complications. Thus, always be watchful of the symptoms.
Surgery is the Only Treatment for Piles
One of the most common myths revolving around piles treatment is that surgery is the only solution to treat it. Factually, surgery is not required in most cases as there are many treatments and home remedies to manage the condition. Surgery is the last resort for piles treatment and is recommended for those who want to remove piles, the rest depends upon the diagnosis.
The doctor begins the treatment by prescribing medications. If medication doesn’t solve your problem, they choose other approaches, such as ligation and energy treatment. If the condition doesn’t alter, surgery is performed. Surgical intervention for piles is recommended only when the haemorrhoids are internal.
Everyone is Equally At Risk of Getting Piles
While many people can develop this condition at any point in their lives, individuals of certain age groups bear more risk of developing it as it has to do with increased abdominal pressure. As per doctors, obesity, chronic constipation, and pregnancy are the most common causes of piles. The condition is also common in middle and old age groups.
When compared between genders, men are more exposed to developing this condition than females. Piles in kids or teenagers are rare and not unheard of. Certain lifestyle habits, such as straining during bowel movements, expose you to this condition.
You Shouldn’t’ Exercise During Piles Treatment
Piles is not a very serious condition, and the doctor will never suggest you exercise or engage in any other physical activity while you are on medication or other treatment. Regular exercise boosts your metabolism and reduces body fat, which helps reduce the chance of developing piles.
Exercise helps you maintain your fitness in the long run, and it is okay to sweat a little. The only condition here is that you must not lift heavy weights or work out in any way that puts pressure on the bottom muscles. The best advice is to talk to your fitness trainer about your condition and request them to design a workout plan suited to your requirements.
Your Diet Doesn’t Affect Pile Treatment
Another common myth is that many people believe that diet has nothing to do with piles or their treatment. Constipation is one of the biggest risk factors in developing this condition, and if you don’t pay attention to your diet, you are sure to develop both. Piles is a lifestyle disorder, and its treatment includes medication along with lifestyle changes.
Throughout your treatment, your doctor will suggest you consume particular food items and refrain from some. A high-fibre diet is highly recommended while eating junk or processed foods should be avoided. You will also be asked not to consume overly spicy food as it may inflame your system. Above all, the doctor will recommend you drink enough water to soften your bowel movements and prevent constipation. If you follow these dietary recommendations throughout your treatment, recovery will be quick and easy.
Cold Surfaces Lead to Piles
This case has not been studied extensively; however, no evidence suggests that cold surfaces may lead to piles.
On the contrary, the home remedy for piles includes using a cold compress. Per many people, it helps relieve some of the symptoms of this condition. You can use cold packs to reduce swelling and relieve discomfort. All you need is to place them on the anus for short intervals.
Takeaway
Piles is a common medical condition and is the frequent cause of rectal bleeding. Educate yourself about myths, facts, and symptoms to avoid unnecessary problems. Seek medical attention if you bleed frequently. The doctor will recommend a suitable treatment.
