Year: 2025

What Are External Hemorrhoids?

External hemorrhoids are a common and painful condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by swollen veins beneath the skin around the anus, they can cause severe discomfort, irritation, and even bleeding. While home remedies and lifestyle changes can offer temporary relief, many individuals seek advanced, lasting solutions — and that’s where Laserqure, a trusted name in laser anorectal surgery, stands out.

External hemorrhoids can cause significant pain, swelling, and inflammation, especially when a blood clot forms in these veins. Clotted hemorrhoids, also known as thrombosed hemorrhoids, often result in intense pain and discomfort. In such cases, surgical procedures may be needed to remove the clot and relieve symptoms.

Today’s focus is on answering the question: “How do you get rid of external hemorrhoids?”

According to Research, haemorrhoidal disease ranks first among conditions affecting the rectum and large intestine. The global prevalence is estimated to be between 2.9% and 27.9%, with over 4% of individuals showing noticeable symptoms.

In today’s world, a large number of people suffer from hemorrhoids —primarily due to poor dietary habits and unhealthy lifestyles. Unfortunately, most over-the-counter medications offer only temporary relief and are not always sufficient to resolve the condition.

Symptoms of external hemorrhoids:

External hemorrhoids occur under the skin around the anus and can cause a variety of uncomfortable and visible symptoms. Recognizing these signs early can lead to effective management and faster relief.

Pain or Discomfort:

Pain is one of the most typical signs of external hemorrhoids, particularly when sitting or having bowel movements. This discomfort may range from mild to severe, depending on the size and condition of the hemorrhoid.

Itching or Irritation:

Persistent itching or irritation around the anal area is often reported. This occurs due to inflammation and moisture in the affected region.

Swelling or Lump:

A tiny bump or swelling close to the anus could be an indication of external hemorrhoids. In some cases, the lump may become hard and tender, especially if a blood clot (thrombosed hemorrhoid) forms.

Bleeding:

Following a bowel movement, bright red blood may be observed on the stool’s surface, in the toilet bowl, or on the toilet paper. This is usually painless but can be alarming.

Discharge:

Some individuals may experience a mucus-like discharge or slight leakage from the anus, which can cause further irritation or staining of undergarments.

Although external hemorrhoids can be painful and distressing, they are treatable. Early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and proper medical care can help manage symptoms effectively and prevent complications. For the right therapy, it’s critical to see a healthcare professional if symptoms intensify or continue.

Home Remedies for Piles/hemorrhoids 

With a few lifestyle adjustments and easy fixes, hemorrhoids, also known as external piles, can often be treated at home despite their pain and discomfort. Here are some effective home-based solutions that may help relieve symptoms and prevent flare-ups:

Increase Fiber Intake:

Maintaining regular bowel movements and avoiding constipation, which is a major hemorrhoid trigger, require a high-fiber diet. Increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains softens stools, facilitating passage and lessening the strain associated with defecation.

Stay Hydrated:

Drink at least 8–10 glasses of water daily. Adequate hydration helps keep the digestive system functioning smoothly and ensures that stools remain soft, minimizing the risk of constipation and reducing pressure on rectal veins.

Warm Baths with Epsom Salt:

Soaking in a sitz bath—warm water mixed with Epsom salt—can provide significant relief from the discomfort of external piles. This helps reduce inflammation, soothes itching, and relaxes the anal muscles, promoting healing and comfort.

Avoid Toilet Paper:

The delicate skin surrounding the anus may become irritated by dry toilet paper. Instead, opt for fragrance-free moist wipes or gently rinse with water after bowel movements. This lessens the chance of aggravating pre-existing hemorrhoids as well as friction and inflammation.

Apply Cold Compress:

Using ice packs or cold compresses on the affected area helps reduce swelling and provides immediate relief from pain, itching, or burning sensations. Wrap the ice in a soft cloth and apply it for 10–15 minutes, several times a day.

Avoid Spicy Food:

Spicy foods can irritate the digestive system and worsen symptoms like itching, burning, and discomfort. During flare-ups, it’s best to stick to a bland, high-fiber diet that supports healthy digestion and softens stools.

Use Over-the-Counter Ointments:

Topical treatments like creams or ointments containing hydrocortisone, lidocaine, or natural ingredients like witch hazel can help relieve pain, itching, and inflammation. These products provide immediate, localized relief and are commonly accessible.

Don’t Hold or Strain:

When the desire strikes, don’t put it off because doing so can result in hard stools. Also, never strain during defecation, as this puts extra pressure on the anal veins and can worsen existing hemorrhoids or cause new ones to develop.

Incorporating these remedies into your daily routine can greatly reduce discomfort and promote healing from external piles. Regularly applying cold compresses, avoiding spicy foods, using soothing ointments, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can lead to noticeable relief. By consistently following these practices, individuals with external piles can experience improved symptoms and lower the risk of future flare-ups, ensuring better long-term anal and digestive health

Surgical Procedures/Treatments

Although moderate hemorrhoids can be adequately managed with lifestyle modifications, home remedies, and pharmaceuticals, in certain circumstances, medical intervention may be necessary. When symptoms persist or worsen, doctors may recommend surgical or minimally invasive procedures for lasting relief.

Conventional Surgery:

Traditional haemorrhoid surgery, known as haemorrhoidectomy, involves the surgical removal of swollen and inflamed tissue. This method is highly effective, especially for severe or recurring hemorrhoids. However, it typically requires a hospital stay and involves a longer recovery period, with patients experiencing post-operative pain and discomfort for several weeks.

Laser Treatment:

Laser hemorrhoid surgery is becoming a more popular option than traditional techniques. Using focused laser beams, surgeons can remove or shrink the haemorrhoidal tissue with high precision. This technique causes minimal damage to surrounding tissues, resulting in less pain, reduced bleeding, and quicker recovery. Laser treatment is usually done on a daycare basis, meaning patients can return home the same day. Its safety, efficiency, and shorter healing time have made it increasingly popular among both patients and healthcare professionals.

Post-Surgery Care:

Regardless of the treatment method, proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure successful healing and prevent recurrence. Patients are advised to follow a high-fiber diet, stay hydrated, maintain proper anal hygiene, and avoid straining during bowel movements. Regular follow-ups and adherence to medical advice further enhance recovery and long-term results

What is Hemorrhoidectomy?

A surgical operation called a hemorrhoidectomy is done expressly to eliminate hemorrhoids. Typically, it is recommended in the following circumstances:

• Symptomatic Grade III or IV hemorrhoids 
• Combined internal and external hemorrhoids 
• Strangulated internal hemorrhoids 
• Some cases of thrombosed external hemorrhoids 
• When minimally invasive techniques are ineffective or intolerable

During the procedure, small incisions are made around the anus to excise the hemorrhoids . Depending on the patient’s condition, the procedure may be done under regional anesthesia (numbing the surgical area while the patient remains awake) or general anesthesia (the patient is asleep). Hemorrhoidectomy is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, enabling patients to go home the same day.

Recovery After Haemorrhoid Surgery

Recovery typically lasts 1 to 2 weeks, but it can extend to 4 to 6 weeks, depending on the patient’s overall health, comorbidities, type of procedure performed, and the surgeon’s expertise.

Postoperative Care Tips:

Post-Surgery Recovery Tips:

After undergoing external haemorrhoid surgery, it’s crucial to follow proper post-operative care to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery. Begin by taking adequate rest at home for at least five days to allow your body to heal. Use sitz baths twice a day to ease the surgical site and lower inflammation, particularly after bowel movements.

Avoid any intense physical activities or heavy lifting for up to six weeks to prevent strain on the rectal area. Stick to a bland, fiber-rich diet and strictly avoid oily and spicy foods, which can irritate the bowels. Good hygiene is essential—keep the area clean and dry to avoid infection. Most importantly, prevent constipation by staying hydrated and taking stool softeners if recommended.

Preparation Before Surgery:

If you’re scheduled for surgery, keep these precautions in mind. Inform your physician about all of your medications, including vitamins, supplements, and blood thinners. You will be required to fast—no food or drink—after midnight before your surgery day.

For best surgical outcomes, it’s advised to stop smoking and alcohol at least a month prior to the procedure. Lastly, arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery, as you may be unable to do so yourself.

Although enemas or rectal suppositories are not routinely prescribed, you are encouraged to have a natural bowel movement before arriving at the hospital.

By understanding the nature of hemorrhoids, External Piles, recognizing symptoms early, and knowing the range of treatment options available—from home remedies to surgical procedures—patients can take proactive steps toward relief and recovery. External hemorrhoids may be painful and uncomfortable, but with proper medical care and lifestyle adjustments, they can be effectively treated and prevented.

Final Thoughts:

External hemorrhoids can significantly impact your daily life, causing pain, embarrassment, and disruption. While home remedies may help temporarily, modern medical advances such as laser piles surgery offer a long-term, effective solution.

Laserqure in Hyderabad stands as a beacon of excellence in the treatment of piles and anorectal disorders, offering precise, painless, and patient-friendly laser solutions. Don’t let external hemorrhoids control your life — reach out to Laserqure today and take the first step toward pain-free relief.

Book your consultation today at Laserqure and experience advanced care for external hemorrhoids. Your comfort is our priority.

A common medical condition that impacts millions of people worldwide is hemorrhoids. These enlarged veins located around the anus can lead to significant discomfort, pain, and even occasional bleeding. Unfortunately, they often make routine activities such as sitting or using the bathroom much more difficult than they should be. While many people are able to manage the symptoms through lifestyle changes or over-the-counter remedies, there are instances where surgery becomes necessary. If you’re preparing for hemorrhoid surgery, it’s natural to be curious about what the procedure entails and what the recovery period might involve. Though it’s not a pleasant subject to discuss, we’ll walk you through the different surgical options and provide an overview of what you can expect before, during, and after the operation.

What Are Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids, is otherwise known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are a prevalent disorder that affects people of all ages and look like varicose veins. Hemorrhoids are simply classified into two types:

Internal Hemorrhoids occur inside the rectum. They doesn’t cause ache but may cause bleeding during bowel movements. Since they are located deeper in the rectal canal, they often go unnoticed until symptoms like blood in the stool appear.

External hemorrhoids start beneath the skin around the anus. These can cause significant discomfort, itching, swelling, and pain—especially if a blood clot forms (a condition known as thrombosed hemorrhoids). Obesity, low-fiber diets, prolonged sitting, straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation, and pregnancy are common causes of hemorrhoids.. These factors increase pressure on the rectal veins, leading to inflammation and swelling.

Fortunately, mild hemorrhoids can often be managed through lifestyle modifications such as eating a fiber-rich diet, drinking plenty of water, avoiding prolonged sitting, and practicing good toilet habits. When these methods are not effective, or if the hemorrhoids are large and painful, medical procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or laser surgery may be necessary for relief.

Surgical Options

So, what are the available surgical treatments? There are multiple Piles Surgery procedures designed to address hemorrhoids, and the most suitable one depends on the severity of your condition and your general health. Here’s a look at one of the most common options:

Hemorrhoidectomy: Surgical Treatment for Severe Hemorrhoids

Hemorrhoidectomy is one of the most common and effective surgical procedures for treating severe or recurring hemorrhoids. It is usually recommended when other less intrusive therapies have failed or when there are big, painful, or prolapsed hemorrhoids.

What to Expect:

The procedure is typically performed under general or spinal anesthesia, ensuring the patient remains comfortable and pain-free during the operation.

Procedure:

During the surgery, the surgeon removes the swollen hemorrhoidal tissue. Depending on the technique used, the surgical site may be left open to heal naturally or closed with stitches.

Post-Surgery Experience:

Recovery from a hemorrhoidectomy can involve discomfort. Patients may experience pain, swelling, or minor bleeding during the initial healing period. Doctors often prescribe painkillers, stool softeners, and sometimes antibiotics to prevent infection.

Recovery Guidelines:

Recuperation often takes two to four weeks. Patients should refrain from heavy lifting and other physically demanding activities during this time. A high-fiber diet and plenty of water are essential to keep bowel movements soft and prevent straining. Sitz baths (warm water baths for the buttocks), topical ointments, and over-the-counter pain relief can help reduce pain and promote healing. With proper care, most people experience lasting relief after surgery.

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (PPH – Procedure for Prolapsed Hemorrhoids)

This is an alternative to traditional surgery for piles surgery that is less invasive. It uses a stapling device to remove excess tissue and reposition the hemorrhoids back to their normal location. It’s typically used for treating prolapsed internal hemorrhoids.

Preparation:

Stapled hemorrhoidopexy is performed under general anesthesia, ensuring the procedure is painless and comfortable for the patient, similar to a traditional hemorrhoidectomy.

Procedure:

Instead of cutting out the hemorrhoids, the surgeon uses a circular stapling device to remove a ring of excess tissue from the rectal lining. This effectively pulls the hemorrhoids back into their normal position and cuts off their blood supply, causing them to shrink. As this method avoids direct cutting of hemorrhoidal tissue, it generally leads to less postoperative pain.

Post-Surgery:

Although discomfort is typically less than with conventional surgery, some pain, swelling, or minor bleeding may still be experienced during the healing phase.

Recovery:

Most patients recover more quickly, returning to their regular activities in as little as one to two weeks. While the risk of complications like bleeding, infection, or recurrence is lower than traditional hemorrhoidectomy, they can still occur. Adhering to post-operative care instructions and following a high-fiber diet can help ensure smooth healing and reduce the risk of recurrence.

This is a non-surgical approach that is especially effective for treating mild to moderate cases of internal hemorrhoids. The procedure involves using infrared light to coagulate the blood vessels feeding the hemorrhoid, causing the tissue to shrink and eventually fall off.

Procedure:

Infrared Coagulation (IRC) is a non-surgical procedure used to treat small internal hemorrhoids. A specialized infrared device delivers heat to the hemorrhoidal tissue, causing the blood vessels to shrink and cutting off the blood supply. This leads to the hemorrhoid shrinking and eventually falling off.

Post-Procedure:

Since IRC is minimally invasive, it doesn’t typically require anesthesia. After the operation, most patients are able to immediately resume their normal activities.

Effectiveness:

IRC is most effective for small to medium-sized internal hemorrhoids. For best results, multiple sessions may be needed to fully resolve symptoms.

Recovery:

Recovery from IRC is usually quick and involves minimal discomfort. Patients may experience mild pain or a feeling of fullness in the rectal area. To aid healing, doctors recommend warm sitz baths, a high-fiber diet, adequate hydration, and stool softeners to avoid constipation. Following these aftercare instructions helps ensure better results and reduces the risk of recurrence.

Rubber Band Ligation:

A widely used treatment for internal hemorrhoids, this Piles Surgery involves placing a small rubber band at the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. Deprived of blood, the hemorrhoid eventually shrinks and detaches.

What to Expect:

Procedure:

Rubber band ligation is a common non-surgical treatment for internal hemorrhoids. A tiny rubber band is securely wrapped around the hemorrhoid’s base by the physician using a specialized tool during the treatment. Because its blood supply is cut off, the hemorrhoid shrinks and eventually falls off in a matter of days.

Post-Procedure:

The procedure is quick and typically performed in a doctor’s office without the need for anesthesia. Some patients may experience mild discomfort, slight bleeding, or a feeling of fullness in the rectal area after the procedure.

Recovery:

Most individuals can return to normal activities within one to two days. Minor bleeding or discomfort, however, could persist for a few days. Patients are usually advised to eat a high-fiber diet and drink plenty of water to ease bowel movements and aid recovery. Any discomfort can be managed with the use of over-the-counter painkillers and Sitz baths.

What Can You Generally Expect During Recovery?

Recovering from piles surgery requires proper care and attention to ensure healing and minimize discomfort. Here are key aspects to focus on during the recovery period:

Pain Management:

Pain or discomfort around the surgical site is common after piles surgery. This can usually be controlled with prescribed pain medications or over-the-counter options such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Taking medications as directed helps ease discomfort and supports smoother healing.

Dietary Adjustments:

A diet rich in fiber is essential for healing. Fiber softens stools, making them easier to pass and reducing strain on the surgical area. Include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and plenty of water in your daily routine. Your doctor may also recommend stool softeners to further ease bowel movements.

Follow-Up Visits:

Attending all follow-up appointments is important for monitoring your recovery. These visits allow your doctor to check the surgical site, address any concerns, and ensure there are no complications.

Physical Activity:

Rest is essential during the initial days post-surgery. Avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or any activity that puts pressure on the anal area. Gentle walking is usually encouraged to promote blood circulation and prevent stiffness.

Possible Complications:

While complications are rare, risks such as infection, bleeding, delayed healing, or recurrence of hemorrhoids can occur. Closely following post-operative instructions, maintaining hygiene, and contacting your doctor if you notice unusual symptoms can help prevent or manage complications early.

By following these guidelines and staying in close communication with your healthcare provider, you can recover more comfortably and reduce the chances of recurrence

In Conclusion

If conservative treatments haven’t provided relief, Piles Surgery could be the next best step. Though the idea of surgery may seem daunting, advancements in procedures like hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, and infrared coagulation have made the experience safer and more manageable. With proper care, most patients recover well and achieve lasting relief from their hemorrhoid symptoms.

Always consult a qualified healthcare provider like Laserqure to determine the most appropriate treatment for your individual condition. Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the procedure can help you feel more prepared and confident as you work toward better health and improved quality of life.

The medical word for piles is hemorrhoids, which are swollen, inflamed veins in the anus and lower rectum. This condition is commonly associated with discomforts such as itching, pain, swelling, and rectal bleeding. Although piles can affect people of any age, adults are particularly susceptible to them. While the majority of people will experience Piles at some point in their lifetime, many tend to ignore or leave the condition untreated—often due to embarrassment about seeking medical assistance or a failure to recognize the symptoms.

However, Untreated piles complications can result in serious health conditions that may significantly affect an individual’s comfort, daily functioning, and overall quality of life. Understanding the nature of piles, their symptoms, potential risks, and available treatments is crucial in managing the condition effectively and avoiding long-term consequences.

What Are Piles?

Piles are essentially enlarged veins in the lower rectum and anal canal that become inflamed due to pressure or irritation. They are divided into two categories:

Internal Piles: Found inside the rectum and often painless, though they can cause bleeding.

External Piles: Found beneath the skin around the anus, these can occasionally bleed and cause pain and itching.

From slight discomfort to excruciating agony and the requirement for surgery, piles can vary widely in severity. Contributing factors include chronic constipation, excessive straining during bowel movements, a low-fiber diet, prolonged sitting, obesity, pregnancy, and a sedentary lifestyle. In many cases, the symptoms are manageable in the early stages, but delay in diagnosis or treatment can worsen the condition over time.

Piles typically present with symptoms like swelling in the anal area, irritation, burning sensation, and bright red blood in the stool. These symptoms not only cause physical discomfort but can also lead to psychological distress and disruption in daily activities.

What Happens If Piles Are Left Untreated?

Ignoring or postponing treatment for piles can lead to several serious complications that impact both physical health and emotional well-being. The following are some dangers of leaving hemorrhoids untreated:

1. Chronic Pain and Discomfort

As piles progress, pain becomes persistent, and patients may find it increasingly difficult to sit, walk, or perform everyday tasks. Even minor activities may trigger discomfort.

2. Recurring Bleeding

Frequent rectal bleeding is one of the most typical signs of untreated piles. Prolonged blood loss can lead to anemia, causing fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin.

3. Development of Prolapse

Internal piles may protrude outside the anal opening and become prolapsed. In extreme situations, these may need to be surgically corrected because they cannot be forced back inside.

4. Increased Risk of Infection

The presence of open sores, bleeding, and irritation creates a favorable environment for bacterial infections. If left untreated, this can escalate into an abscess or other complications.

5. Thrombosis

In some instances, blood clots may form inside external hemorrhoids, leading to a condition called thrombosed piles, which are extremely painful and swollen and often need immediate medical intervention.

6. Fecal Incontinence

Chronic and severe piles can weaken the anal sphincter muscles, leading to loss of bowel control. This can cause both social embarrassment and psychological stress.

7. Strangulated Hemorrhoids

A prolapsed internal hemorrhoid may become strangled and cause gangrene, or tissue death, as well as excruciating agony if its blood supply is cut off. Due to this medical emergency, surgery is urgently required.

Untreated Piles Complications

If left unmanaged, Untreated Piles Complications can lead to multiple health complications, including:

Anemia: Caused by chronic blood loss, resulting in fatigue, dizziness, and fainting spells.

Ulceration: Ulcers in the anal canal can develop as a result of ongoing irritation and inflammation.

Rectal Prolapse: The rectal lining may fall out of place and protrude through the anus, requiring corrective surgery.

Gangrene: In rare and extreme cases, strangulated hemorrhoids can lead to tissue death, which can be life-threatening.

Fistula Formation: Chronic infections may result in the development of an abnormal tunnel between the rectum and surrounding tissues.

Severe Itching and Poor Hygiene: Constant irritation can interfere with cleanliness, leading to worsened inflammation and discomfort.

Piles Treatments

Timely treatment not only relieves symptoms but also helps in preventing complications and restoring normal bowel function. Treatment options are broadly classified into:

1. Home Remedies

Changes in lifestyle and at-home care can typically help manage early-stage piles. These include:

• Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains that are high in fiber
• Drinking a lot of beverages to help make stools softer
• Avoiding straining during bowel movements
• To reduce edema and relieve discomfort, use warm sitz baths.
• Using over-the-counter ointments and suppositories
• Consuming eggs and other constipation-preventing foods
• Practicing regular physical exercise for healthy digestion

2. Medical Treatments

If home care is ineffective or the condition worsens, several medical interventions are available:

Rubber Band Ligation: A rubber band is used to bind the hemorrhoid, halting the blood flow and causing it to fall out.
Sclerotherapy: An injection of a certain solution is used to lessen the hemorrhoid.

Infrared Coagulation: Laser or heat is used to coagulate and destroy the affected tissue.

Hemorrhoidectomy: The surgical excision of big or chronic hemorrhoids.

Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy: A stapling device is used to lift and cut off blood flow to prolapsed hemorrhoids.

When to Consult a Doctor?

While minor piles can be managed conservatively, medical attention is necessary if:

• There is persistent bleeding
• You experience severe pain or swelling
• Home therapy does not alleviate symptoms.
• There is loss of bowel control
• A visible lump cannot be pushed back
• You observe symptoms of infection, such discharge or fever.
• Seeking professional medical care at the right time can prevent further complications and ensure quicker recovery.

Conclusion

Piles are a common yet often neglected condition. While they may begin with mild discomfort, untreated piles can evolve into a severe health issue involving pain, bleeding, infection, and even surgery. Fortunately, with early diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and modern medical interventions, most patients can recover without major complications. If symptoms persist or worsen, don’t delay—consult Laserqure, your trusted specialist in advanced laser piles treatment, for expert care and long-term relief.