The anus and lower rectum are affected by a condition called piles or haemorrhoids which is quite common. For many who experience their uncomfortable symptoms, a significant concern arises:

“Can I still live a normal life with piles?” For the large majority of patients, the answer is a clear yes. Although piles can be painful and unpleasant, they do not often damage a person’s overall health and proper treatment lets most people enjoy their lives normally.

What Happens if You Have Piles for Years?

The extent to which piles affect a person’s daily life is largely dependent on their severity and the individual’s approach to management.

Around half of the people have mild internal haemorrhoids that may cause no real problems or just cause the occasional, light discomfort of seeing a bit of bright red blood on toilet paper. Many fail to see such events and they have no impact on normal life.

For moderate or external piles, symptoms can appear such as itching, unpleasant sensation, mild pain and more often bleeding. Some people feel a bit distracted by these and might decide to sit in places that don’t cause too much pain.

Though, they rarely stop people from joining in most normal activities.

Severe or Prolapsed Piles: In more advanced cases, internal piles might prolapse (protrude outside the anus) and require manual repositioning. External piles can become acutely painful if a blood clot forms within them (thrombosed hemorrhoids).

Can I Live Normal Life with Piles?

To live normally with piles, one needs to actively manage them, change their habits, and go to a doctor when required.

• Adding fibre to your diet is one of the most important things you can do. A diet rich in fiber (from fruits, vegetables, and whole grains) helps soften stools, making them easier to pass and significantly reducing the need to strain during bowel movements.
• Adequate fluid intake during the day aids fibre in softening your stools which helps prevent a common reason for piles: constipation.
• Give in to the urge to go to the bathroom when you first feel it, so your bowels remain healthy. Don’t put off using the restroom, as it can result in difficult-to-pass stools. Don’t stay seated on the toilet for too long and do not force yourself.
• Make Sure to Stop Sitting or Standing for Extended Periods: If you work or live by sitting or standing a lot, interrupt your period with breaks to stretch and take a walk. Also, if you’re on your feet all day, try to sit down every now and then.
• Always make sure the skin around your anus stays fresh and clean. Unscented toilet paper can be gentle or you could use a bidet to ensure you stay both clean and comfortable.
• You can use over-the-counter items like witch hazel- or hydrocortisone-based creams, ointments or suppositories to relieve itching, puffiness and pain caused by flare-ups.
• Sitz Baths for Comfort: Soaking the anal area in warm water (sitz bath) several times a day can provide significant relief from pain and discomfort.
• A common exercise can help the bowels work better and put less burden on veins in the rectum.

 Conclusion

While piles can undoubtedly present challenges and discomfort, they are rarely a condition that permanently hinders one’s ability to live a normal, active, and fulfilling life.

If someone wants to control their piles, they should know about the problem, adjust unhealthy lifestyle habits, and see a doctor when symptoms start to bother them.

Dr. Kailash Mishra
Director & Gastroenterologist Consultant
Prime Gastro Liver Clinic