Piles are swelling of the blood vessels around the anorectal region, which can be internal, external, or both.
They occur due to increased pressure in these localized blood vessels, which develop due to prolonged constipation or straining during defecation.
It is common in all age groups and affects both sexes. Diagnosis of piles requires clinical history as it has typical symptoms like itching, pain, discomfort, bowel movement disorder, and bleeding.
Laboratory tests are usually not required but patients are advised to undergo proctoscopy or sigmoidoscopy.
Daily habits that can cause piles
- Lifting heavy weights, consuming food items that contain low fiber, eating hot and spicy foods, obesity, sitting for long periods, and straining during bowel movements is what causes piles.
- Diet plays an important role in treating piles. The quantity of fibers, green vegetables, fruits, and water are consumed in low quantities.
- We also increase the intake of oily and deep-fried things. This imbalance in diet makes digestion less efficient. Low water intake is an additional factor that increases constipation.
- Coffee is another potential factor as intake of excessive coffee can slow down bowel movement and lead to an aggravation of existing piles.
- People who constantly suffer from constipation and chronic bowel movements are more prone to suffering from piles.
Dietary tips when suffering from piles
We should make balance in our diet, should have regular fibrous food like vegetables, whole grains, and fruits along with an intake of sufficient amount of water.
Food to consume during piles treatment
Eating legumes are the most comforting meal for a person suffering from piles. It is easily digestible and also relieves an upset stomach from irritations and inflammation caused by the condition of piles. Whole grains like brown rice, corn, oats and barley should also be an indispensable part of the diet to control piles. Unlike spicy foods, which trigger and aggravate the condition of a person who has piles, whole grains are beneficial for the smooth digestion process and overall stomach functioning. Dietary changes are crucial, and without cutting down on fatty foods which contain oily substances, one cannot recover from piles. Broccoli, sweet potatoes, turnips, and carrots can also be healthy substitutes for cravings and contain high levels of nutrition as well.
