Types of Piles Explained (Internal vs External)

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Types of Piles Explained (Internal vs External)

Understanding the types of piles is the first step toward getting the right diagnosis, faster relief, and long-term comfort. Many people in Bangalore ignore early signs like itching, pain, or bleeding because they feel embarrassed—or assume it will go away on its own. But piles (also called hemorrhoids) are extremely common, and with the right care, they are very treatable.

At Chirag Global Hospitals, we help patients across Bangalore identify the exact cause of their discomfort and offer advanced, safe, and personalized treatment options. Known as the Best Colo – Rectal Hospital of India, our expert colorectal team focuses on patient privacy, comfort, and long-lasting results.

If you’re experiencing piles symptoms like pain, bleeding, swelling, or discomfort while passing stool, book a consultation at Chirag Global Hospitals in Bangalore today. Early treatment helps avoid complications and gives faster relief.

Types of Piles: A Simple Overview

There are different types of piles, and the treatment depends on the type, grade, severity, and symptoms. The two main categories include:

  1. Internal piles (inside the rectum)
  2. External piles (outside the anus)

Understanding internal vs external piles helps patients know what symptoms to watch for and when to consult a specialist in Bangalore.

Internal vs External Piles: Key Differences

Here’s a quick comparison to make things easier:

FeatureInternal PilesExternal Piles
LocationInside rectumOutside anus
PainUsually painlessOften painful
BleedingCommonLess common
LumpMay prolapse outsideVisible lump/swelling
ItchingSometimesCommon
Best treatment approachMedicines, banding, laserMedicines, laser, excision

Both types of piles can occur together, and some patients experience mixed symptoms. That’s why proper diagnosis at a specialized colorectal hospital is essential.

What Are Internal Piles?

Internal piles develop inside the rectum and are usually not visible. Many patients don’t even realize they have them until they notice bleeding.

Common Internal Piles Symptoms

Internal piles often cause:

  • Bright red blood on toilet paper or in the toilet bowl
  • Mild discomfort or pressure
  • A feeling of incomplete emptying
  • Mucus discharge in some cases

In early stages, internal piles may not cause pain because there are fewer pain-sensitive nerves inside the rectum.

Grades of Internal Piles (Most Important for Treatment)

Internal piles are usually classified into 4 grades:

Grade 1

  • Small swelling inside rectum
  • No prolapse (doesn’t come out)
  • Mild bleeding may occur

Grade 2

  • Prolapse occurs during bowel movement
  • Goes back inside on its own

Grade 3

  • Prolapse occurs and needs manual pushing back

Grade 4

  • Permanently prolapsed and cannot be pushed back
  • Can be painful and complicated

At Chirag Global Hospitals in Bangalore, specialists assess the grade carefully to recommend the most effective piles treatment.

What Are External Piles?

External piles occur outside the anus and are often more uncomfortable due to the presence of pain-sensitive nerves.

Common External Piles Symptoms

External piles may cause:

  • Pain while sitting or walking
  • Itching and irritation
  • Swelling or a visible lump near the anus
  • Burning sensation
  • Difficulty during bowel movements

External piles can become more painful if a blood clot forms inside them (called thrombosed piles).

Thrombosed External Piles (When Pain Becomes Severe)

A thrombosed external pile happens when blood pools and forms a clot inside the swollen vein. This can lead to:

  • Sudden intense pain
  • A hard bluish lump
  • Swelling and tenderness
  • Difficulty sitting comfortably

This condition often requires urgent evaluation—especially if pain is severe. If you notice sudden swelling with intense pain, consult a colorectal specialist immediately.

Why Do Piles Happen? (Common Causes in Bangalore Lifestyle)

Many Bangalore residents experience piles due to lifestyle and daily routine challenges such as:

  • Constipation from low-fiber diet
  • Long hours of sitting (IT jobs, office work)
  • Low water intake
  • Spicy food and irregular eating patterns
  • Straining during bowel movements
  • Heavy lifting or gym strain
  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Obesity and lack of physical activity

Both internal vs external piles can develop due to repeated pressure on rectal veins.

Diagnosis: How Doctors Confirm the Types of Piles

At Chirag Global Hospitals, Bangalore, diagnosis is done with sensitivity and privacy. Your doctor may recommend:

  • Physical examination
  • Digital rectal exam
  • Proctoscopy/anoscopy
  • Colonoscopy (if bleeding is persistent or age-related risk factors exist)

This ensures accurate identification of the types of piles and rules out other causes.

Piles Treatment in Bangalore: Options Based on Severity

Choosing the right piles treatment in Bangalore depends on whether it is internal or external, the grade, and the patient’s comfort level.

1) Lifestyle and Home Care (Early Stages)

Doctors often recommend:

  • High-fiber diet (fruits, vegetables, whole grains)
  • Drinking 2.5–3 liters of water daily
  • Avoiding prolonged sitting on the toilet
  • Warm sitz baths
  • Avoiding spicy food triggers
  • Mild stool softeners if required

This works well for mild types of piles (Grade 1 and early Grade 2).

2) Medications

Depending on symptoms, doctors may prescribe:

  • Anti-inflammatory creams
  • Pain-relief ointments
  • Suppositories for internal piles
  • Laxatives/stool softeners
  • Antibiotics if infection is suspected

Medication helps reduce discomfort, but it may not permanently remove advanced piles.

3) Minimally Invasive Procedures (Fast Recovery)

For patients who need quicker relief, especially working professionals in Bangalore, options include:

Rubber Band Ligation (for Internal Piles)

  • Best for Grade 2 and selected Grade 3 internal piles
  • Cuts blood supply so the pile shrinks

Injection Sclerotherapy

  • Medicine injected to shrink piles
  • Useful in early internal piles

Laser Treatment for Piles

Laser is one of the most preferred options today because it is:

  • Minimally invasive
  • Less painful
  • Faster healing
  • Minimal bleeding
  • Short hospital stay

At Chirag Global Hospitals, we offer advanced laser piles treatment with a patient-friendly approach and expert colorectal surgeons.

4) Surgery (For Severe or Recurrent Cases)

For Grade 4 or complicated piles, surgery may be recommended:

  • Hemorrhoidectomy
  • Stapled hemorrhoidopexy (in selected cases)

Your specialist will explain the best option depending on your condition and comfort.

Prevention Tips: Reduce Recurrence of Piles

Even after successful treatment, prevention is important. Follow these tips:

  • Eat fiber-rich meals daily
  • Avoid skipping breakfast
  • Drink enough water (especially in Bangalore’s changing weather)
  • Walk 30 minutes daily
  • Don’t strain or sit too long in the toilet
  • Avoid holding stools for long
  • Manage stress (gut health is stress-sensitive)

These steps reduce pressure on rectal veins and help prevent future flare-ups of the types of piles.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Ignore Piles Symptoms in Bangalore

Piles can feel uncomfortable and embarrassing, but it’s a medical condition—nothing to be ashamed of. The sooner you understand the types of piles, the easier it becomes to treat them effectively and avoid complications.

Whether you’re dealing with bleeding, pain, itching, or a lump, expert help is available right here in Bangalore.

If you’re searching for trusted piles treatment in Bangalore, visit Chirag Global Hospitals and speak to an experienced colorectal specialist today. 

FAQs: Types of Piles (Internal vs External)

1) How do I know if I have internal vs external piles?

Internal piles usually cause painless bleeding, while external piles often cause pain, swelling, and itching. A specialist evaluation at Chirag Global Hospitals in Bangalore gives a clear diagnosis.

2) Are piles always painful?

No. Internal piles may not be painful at all, especially in early grades. External piles tend to be more painful due to sensitive skin around the anus.

3) Is laser piles treatment safe and comfortable?

Yes. Laser treatment is considered safe, minimally invasive, and often more comfortable than traditional surgery. It typically allows faster recovery and less bleeding.

4) How long does piles treatment take at Chirag Global Hospitals?

Many procedures are done as day-care treatments. Depending on severity, recovery can range from a few days to a couple of weeks. Your doctor will guide you clearly.

5) Will piles come back after treatment?

Piles can recur if constipation, straining, and lifestyle triggers continue. Chirag Global Hospitals provides follow-up support and prevention guidance to reduce recurrence.

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