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Internal piles are hemorrhoids that develop within the anal passageway, above the dentate line. Because the visceral nerves above the dentate line normally only sense pressure, not pain, internal piles are usually painless. However, they can cause some amount of discomfort and at times, slight bleeding too, if hard stools rub against them. These hemorrhoids could also protrude outside the anal passage, appearing like a tiny, grape-like mass, causing severe pain. Internal piles can be more painful than the external piles. One of the most common causes of piles is bowel disorders, which includes chronic Constipation leading to habitual straining as well as diarrhea. Other common causes could be anal infections, being overweight, following a low-fiber diet, mental stress, leading a sedentary lifestyle, strenuous work, pregnancy & heredity.

Symptoms

One of the most common symptoms that most people with piles go through is protrusion and bleeding (usually painless) during bowel movements. Blood may be seen either on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl, after passing stool. Other symptoms of piles include - itching, discomfort, skin irritation, pain and incomplete bowel movements.

Treatment

• Rubber band ligation:

  In this procedure, a small rubber band is placed at the base of the hemorrhoid, cutting of the supply of blood to it. This will cause the hemorrhoid to shrivel up & therefore fall off in a few days.

• Infrared Photocoagulation:

  In this procedure, an infrared light is directed to coagulate the veins of the hemorrhoid, causing them to shrink. As the blood does not flow through the coagulated veins, the hemorrhoid shrinks.

• Laser Coagulation:

  In this procedure, an electric current is applied to the hemorrhoid, which cuts off the supply of blood to it, due to a chemical reaction. This results in the shrinking of the inflamed tissue.

• Hemorrhoidectomy:

  In this procedure, the hemorrhoids are removed surgically.

• Injection Sclerotherapy:

  In this procedure, a chemical solution is injected into the mucus membrane, close to the hemorrhoid. This chemical solution closes the veins and shrinks the hemorrhoid, by causing an inflammation.

Internal piles could heal on their own, but can also return, unless steps are taken to prevent them. As piles are usually caused by exertion during bowel movements, you can prevent them, by altering your diet, to include - plenty of water (that is at least eight glasses) everyday as well as 25 to 30 grams of fiber. If you are overweight, you should try to exercise often, as losing weight could help prevent piles. The most important thing however, is practicing proper hygienic measures, by keeping the anal area dry and clean at all times.

Warning: The reader of this article should exercise all precautionary measures while following instructions on the home remedies from this article. Avoid using any of these products if you are allergic to it. The responsibility lies with the reader and not with the site or the writer.