Understanding the Symptoms of Piles (Hemorrhoids): A Complete Patient Guide

Many people silently suffer from piles, thinking it's just a passing issue. But if left unchecked, the symptoms of piles (also known as hemorrhoids) can worsen and affect your quality of life. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know — from early signs of piles to gender-specific symptoms, so you can seek timely care.

What Are Piles (Hemorrhoids)?

Piles are swollen, inflamed veins in the anus or lower rectum. Depending on their location, they are classified as:

• Internal Piles: inside the rectum, usually painless
• External Piles: under the skin around the anus, often painful

Though common in adults, many don’t recognize the first signs of piles until they become severe. So let’s break down what to look for.

Top Symptoms of Piles You Shouldn’t Ignore

1. Bleeding After Passing Stool
   • One of the most common symptoms of piles is painless bleeding during or after a bowel movement. You may notice bright red blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl.
2. Pain or Discomfort in the Anal Area
   • Pain while sitting, during bowel movements, or even without any pressure could indicate external piles or a thrombosed hemorrhoid.
3. Anal Itching or Irritation 
   • If you constantly feel the urge to scratch your anal area, it may be due to mucus discharge or skin irritation — both symptoms of piles. 
4. Swelling or Lump Around the Anus
   • External piles can present as a soft, painful lump near the anus, especially after straining or sitting for long periods.
5. Mucus Discharge
   • Mucus from the anus, especially with internal piles, can stain underwear and cause skin irritation or itching.
6. Incomplete Bowel Movement 
   • Do you feel like your bowels are not fully empty, even after passing stool? This feeling of incomplete evacuation is a subtle but important sign of internal hemorrhoids.

Internal vs. External Piles Symptoms 

Symptoms of Piles in Men and Women

While both genders experience similar signs, certain lifestyle factors or conditions can influence how piles present.

Symptoms of Piles in Men:

• Straining during gym workouts
• Chronic constipation due to diet
• Long sitting hours (e.g., desk jobs or driving)

Symptoms of Piles in Women:

• Symptoms of piles during pregnancy due to pressure from the uterus
• Post-delivery strain
• Hormonal changes affecting bowel habits

How Do I Know If I Have Piles?

If you’re experiencing:

• Bleeding while passing stool
• Itching or pain in the anal region
• A lump or swelling near the anus
• Trouble sitting comfortably

…it could be piles. Don’t wait until the pain worsens. Knowing how to identify piles symptoms early makes treatment simpler and faster.

Internal vs. External Piles Symptoms

Symptoms of Piles During Pregnancy

Pregnant women are more prone to piles due to increased pressure on pelvic veins. Symptoms of piles during pregnancy include:

• Swelling around the anus
• Pain during bowel movements
• Itching or irritation
• Bleeding after passing stool

If you’re pregnant and experiencing any of these signs, consult your gynecologist for safe treatment options.

How to Identify Piles Symptoms at Home

Noticing one or more of these issues?

• Do you see blood when you wipe?
• Is there a lump near the anus that feels sore?
• Do you feel anal itching or burning?

These are warning signs of piles. Early detection can help you manage symptoms better with home remedies or medical treatments.

When to See a Doctor for Piles

If your symptoms:

• Persist for more than a week
• Worsen over time
• Include heavy bleeding or unbearable pain

…it’s time to consult a doctor. At Paras Health, we offer advanced, painless treatment options for all stages of piles — including laser piles surgery, medication, and lifestyle guidance.

Other Common Questions

Are piles painful?

Internal piles are usually painless but bleed. External piles, especially thrombosed ones, can be painful and swollen.

How to detect piles symptoms at home?

Look for visible lumps near the anus, bleeding after stool, discomfort while sitting, or mucus discharge. A self-check can help, but medical diagnosis is better. 

When to worry about piles symptoms?

• Continuous bleeding
• Intense or sharp pain
• Large lumps or prolapse
  These require immediate consultation with a specialist.

Get Expert Help at Paras Health

At Paras Hospitals, we offer:

• Accurate diagnosis for all types of piles
• Advanced treatment including laser piles surgery
• Supportive care and dietary counseling to prevent recurrence

📍 Available in Gurgaon, Panchkula, Ranchi, Patna & more
📞 Call 8080808069 to book an appointment
🌐 Visit www.parashospitals.com