When to see a doctor
- Bright red blood after passing stool, seen in the toilet, on the stool, or when washing or wiping
- A soft lump in or around the back passage
- Itching, soreness or pain around the back passage
- Mucus (a slimy discharge) on underwear or toilet paper
- Feeling that the bowel has not fully emptied after passing stool
Get urgent help if
- Heavy or non-stop bleeding, large blood clots, or feeling dizzy or faint with bleeding
- Black, tar-like or very dark red stools
- Severe pain with a hard, swollen lump that cannot be pushed back
- Fever, shivering or pus leaking, along with pain in the back passage
- After banding or an operation: heavy bleeding (even up to two weeks later), fever, worsening pain, or being unable to pass urine
Call the hospital on +91 251 260 8502 (open 24 hours) or go to the nearest emergency department. For an ambulance, call 108. Do not wait for an OPD appointment.
How care usually works
- Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, bowel habits, diet and any medicines you take.
- They may gently examine the back passage, with your permission. A short viewing tube (proctoscope) may be used to look inside.
- If bleeding needs checking further, blood tests or a camera test of the bowel (colonoscopy) may be advised.
- Care often starts with more fibre and water, less straining, and creams or medicines your doctor may suggest.
- For some piles inside the back passage, your doctor may discuss banding. A tiny rubber band is placed at the pile’s base, so it shrinks and falls off. Larger or troublesome piles may need an operation. Your doctor will explain the risks and what recovery may involve.
Typical hospital stay
Banding and other OPD treatments for piles do not usually need a hospital stay. After an operation, many people go home the same day or the next day. After banding, a dull ache or a little bleeding for a few days is common. After an operation, pain is common for the first week or two. Full healing can take several weeks, so ask your doctor about time off work.
Doctors for this treatment
Frequently asked questions
When should I speak to a doctor?
See a doctor if you notice any bleeding from the back passage, or a new lump. Bleeding should always be checked, as other bowel conditions can cause it too. See a doctor too if pain lasts over a week or keeps coming back. The same applies if your bowel habits change for three weeks or more, or you lose weight without trying. If bleeding is heavy or you feel faint, go to the nearest hospital emergency department straight away.
What happens during the first consultation?
Please bring a list of your medicines and any past test reports. The doctor will talk with you about your symptoms first. Any examination is done only with your permission, and you may ask for a family member to be present. The doctor will then explain what may help and whether tests are needed.
How are piles treated?
Options range from diet changes and medicines to small OPD procedures such as banding or an operation. The choice depends on the type and size of the piles, your symptoms and your general health. Your doctor will explain the likely benefits, risks and recovery for each option.
Is there anything I can do at home?
Drinking enough water and eating fibre-rich foods, such as fruit, vegetables, dal and whole grains, may help keep stools soft. Try not to strain or sit on the toilet for long. Check with a doctor or pharmacist before using any cream or medicine, and do not ignore bleeding.
A note about this page
This page is general information, not medical advice. Please see a doctor about your own symptoms.