Piles or Fissures: How to Know Which One You Have and How to Treat It?
Are you struggling with pain, itching, or bleeding during bowel movements? You might be wondering whether it’s piles (hemorrhoids) or anal fissures causing your discomfort. While both conditions affect the anal area, they are distinct and require different treatments. Wrong self-treatment can worsen the problem. Piles are swollen veins in the anal canal, often linked to constipation or prolonged sitting, whereas fissures are small tears in the anal lining caused by passing hard stools. Understanding the distinction is key to finding the right therapy. If you’re unsure about your symptoms, consult a trusted proctologist in Thrissur, Kerala, like Dr. Raviram S. at Thrissur Piles Clinic, who specializes in diagnosing and treating anorectal conditions with advanced laser technology. This blog will guide you through identifying your condition and exploring effective treatment options tailored to your needs.
What Are Piles and Fissures?
Piles (Hemorrhoids):
Piles are swollen veins in the anal canal caused by increased pressure. They can be inner (inside the rectum) or external (around the anal opening). Piles often develop due to chronic constipation, prolonged sitting, pregnancy, or obesity.
Symptoms of Piles:
- Painful bowel movements
- Blood in stool
- Swelling or lumps near the anus
- Itching or irritation around the anal area
- Mucus discharge
Anal Fissures:
A fissure is a small tear in the thin lining of the anus, typically caused by passing hard stools. It can lead to pain and discomfort during bowel movements.
Symptoms of Fissures:
- Sharp pain during or after bowel movements
- Blood on toilet paper or in stool
- A visible tear near the anus
- Burning or itching sensation
Causes of Piles and Fissures:
Common Causes:
- Chronic constipation
- Low-fibre diet
- Prolonged sitting (e.g., desk jobs)
- Straining during bowel movements
- Pregnancy (due to increased pelvic pressure)
Additional Causes for Fissures:
- Crohn’s disease
- Anal infections
- Trauma from childbirth
How to Tell the Difference?
- Pain Type: Piles usually cause dull aches or itching, while fissures trigger sharp, intense pain.
- Bleeding: Both cause bleeding, but fissures often leave blood streaks on stools.
- Physical Signs: Piles may create soft lumps; fissures show visible cracks.
If you’re unsure, consult a piles specialist in Thrissur, Kerala, like Dr. Raviram S. at Thrissur Piles Clinic, for a proper diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Piles and Fissures:
Medical History and Physical Examination:
A thorough medical history and physical assessment are essential. The healthcare provider may:
- Inspect the Anal Region: To identify external hemorrhoids or fissures.
- Perform a Digital Rectal Examination: To assess internal hemorrhoids.
Additional Diagnostic Procedures:
- Anoscopy: Allows visualization of internal hemorrhoids.
- Flexible Sigmoidoscopy or Colonoscopy: To rule out other causes of rectal bleeding.
Treatment Options:
For Piles:
- Lifestyle Changes:
- High-fibre diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid prolonged sitting
- Medications:
- Stool softeners
- Topical creams for pain relief
- Advanced Treatments:
- Laser Haemorrhoidoplasty (LHP): A minimally invasive laser procedure that shrinks hemorrhoids with minimal pain and downtime.
- Stapler Hemorrhoidopexy: Repositions prolapsed hemorrhoids using a stapler.
- Doppler-Guided Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (DGHAL): Cuts off blood supply to hemorrhoids.
At Thrissur Piles Clinic, laser treatments for piles ensure quick recovery with minimal discomfort.
For Fissures:
- Conservative Management:
- High-fibre diet and hydration
- Sitz baths to relax muscles
- Topical ointments to reduce pain and promote healing
- Surgical Options:
- Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS): A small incision is made in the anal sphincter muscle to reduce tension and allow healing.
- Laser Surgery: A precise, minimally invasive option with faster recovery.
Dr. Raviram S., an experienced fissure specialist in Thrissur, Kerala, recommends laser treatments for chronic fissures as they are highly effective and less invasive.
When to Visit a Doctor?
- If symptoms last longer than a week.
- Heavy bleeding or extreme pain.
- Recurring issues despite home care.
A skilled anal fissure doctor in Thrissur, Kerala, can diagnose your condition using gentle examinations and recommend the best treatment.
Why Choose Dr. Raviram S. and Thrissur Piles Clinic?
If you’re dealing with piles, fissures, or any rectal discomfort, finding the right doctor and clinic is crucial for effective treatment and peace of mind. Here’s why Dr. Raviram S. and Thrissur Piles Clinic stand out as the top choice for patients in Thrissur, Kerala:
- Expert Care: Raviram S., a leading proctologist in Thrissur, uses modern techniques for quick recovery. He’s a skilled Anal Fissure doctor in Thrissur specializing in modern techniques like Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS) for faster recovery.
- Affordable Treatments: Thrissur Piles Clinic provides cost-effective treatments without compromising quality. Customized plans for piles and fissures.
- High Success Rates: The clinic focuses on permanent solutions rather than temporary fixes, reducing the risk of recurrence.
- Patient-Friendly Approach: Focus on comfort and privacy.
Whether you need piles treatment in Thrissur, Kerala, or fissure care, this clinic ensures effective results with minimal discomfort.
Prevention Tips for Piles and Fissures:
- Eat a fibre-rich diet.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements.
- Exercise regularly to improve digestion.
- Limit prolonged sitting on hard surfaces.
Conclusion:
Don’t let rectal pain or bleeding disrupt your daily life. Whether it’s piles or fissures, early diagnosis and proper treatment can save you from complications. Dr. Raviram S., a leading experienced proctologist in Thrissur, Kerala, offers advanced, pain-free solutions at Thrissur Piles Clinic. With expertise in anal fissure treatment in Thrissur and piles management, he ensures quick relief and lasting results. For trusted care in Kerala, call 9961001199 now. Book your consultation today and take the first step towards a healthier, pain-free life!