Blog

Published on: 27^th February, 2025
Written by: Dr.Arsh

Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are a common yet often misunderstood condition. Misinformation surrounding piles leads many people to either panic unnecessarily or ignore symptoms until they worsen. It is important to set the record straight.

In this blog, we will debunk some of the biggest myths about piles and uncover the real facts behind this condition.

Myth 1: Only Older People Get Piles
Fact: While the risk of developing piles increases with age, piles can affect people of all ages, including teenagers and young adults. Poor dietary habits, prolonged sitting, and chronic constipation are major contributing factors (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

Who is at risk?

• People with low-fiber diets (Harvard Health, 2023)
• Individuals who sit for long hours, such as those in desk jobs, students, and drivers (Cleveland Clinic, 2021)
• Pregnant women due to increased abdominal pressure (American Pregnancy Association, 2023)
• Those who frequently lift heavy weights (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2022)

Myth 2: Spicy Food Causes Piles
Fact: Spicy food does not directly cause piles, but it can irritate an already existing condition. If someone already has hemorrhoids, consuming excessive spices may cause discomfort during bowel movements (World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2014). However, piles are primarily caused by straining, constipation, and prolonged sitting rather than specific foods.

A balanced diet that includes fiber-rich foods and proper hydration is essential to maintaining digestive health (Harvard Health, 2023).

Myth 3: Piles Will Go Away on Their Own
Fact: In some cases, mild hemorrhoids may subside with dietary changes and lifestyle improvements, but ignoring piles can worsen the condition over time. If left untreated, hemorrhoids can grow larger, bleed excessively, or require medical intervention (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

Steps to manage piles effectively:

• Increase fiber intake by consuming fruits, vegetables, and whole grains (Harvard Health, 2023)
• Stay hydrated to ensure smooth digestion (NIDDK, 2023)
• Exercise regularly to promote blood circulation (World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2014)
• Use topical treatments for relief

Myth 4: Sitting on Cold Surfaces Causes Piles
Fact: Cold surfaces have no direct link to the development of hemorrhoids. Prolonged sitting, regardless of surface temperature, can put pressure on the veins in the rectum, contributing to piles (Cleveland Clinic, 2021).

Those with desk jobs or sedentary lifestyles should take breaks every 30 to 45 minutes to stand up and move around. Using a cushion or soft seat may also help reduce discomfort.

Myth 5: Only Surgery Can Cure Piles
Fact: Surgery is only required for severe cases of hemorrhoids. Most cases of piles can be managed naturally through dietary changes, home remedies, and non-invasive treatments (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2022).

Non-Surgical Treatment Options Include:

• A high-fiber diet to soften stools (Harvard Health, 2023)
• Sitz baths (warm water soaks) for relief (Cleveland Clinic, 2021)
• Herbal and Ayurvedic treatments, such as Triphala and Aloe Vera (Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, 2011)
• Over-the-counter creams for symptom relief
• Lifestyle changes, including regular exercise and avoiding excessive straining during bowel movements

Surgery is usually considered when piles are very large, painful, or cause excessive bleeding (Mayo Clinic, 2022).

Myth 6: Piles Lead to Cancer
Fact: Hemorrhoids and cancer are not the same. While piles cause rectal bleeding, this does not indicate cancer (Johns Hopkins Medicine, 2022). However, if symptoms persist, such as ongoing bleeding, unexplained weight loss, or significant changes in bowel habits, a doctor should be consulted to rule out other conditions, including colorectal cancer.

Warning signs that require medical attention:

• Bleeding that does not stop or worsens
• Unexplained weight loss
• Severe pain or lumps that do not shrink
• Chronic constipation or diarrhea (NIDDK, 2023)

Myth 7: Only Unhealthy People Get Piles
Fact: Even individuals who follow a healthy lifestyle can develop piles. While obesity increases the risk, people who work out regularly, especially those who lift heavy weights, may also develop hemorrhoids due to excessive pressure on the rectal veins (World Journal of Gastroenterology, 2014).

Preventive measures for active individuals:

• Avoid excessive straining during workouts
• Stay properly hydrated to maintain bowel regularity
• Consume enough fiber to prevent constipation (Harvard Health, 2023)

Final Thoughts
Misinformation about piles often leads to unnecessary fear or delayed treatment. The key to preventing and managing piles lies in understanding the facts, making healthy lifestyle choices, and using effective treatments.

If symptoms persist, it is important to take proactive steps to manage piles naturally before they worsen. Seeking medical advice when needed can help prevent complications.

References

1. Mayo Clinic (2022) – Hemorrhoids: Symptoms and Causes
2. Cleveland Clinic (2021) – Hemorrhoids Overview
3. Harvard Health (2023) – Diet and Hemorrhoids
4. Johns Hopkins Medicine (2022) – Hemorrhoid Causes and Treatment
5. World Journal of Gastroenterology (2014) – Role of Obesity in Hemorrhoids
6. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK, 2023) – Hemorrhoids Overview
7. Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine (2011) – The Benefits of Triphala
8. American Pregnancy Association (2023) – Pregnancy and Hemorrhoids