FAQs related to Piles/Hemorrhoids/Mulvyadh

Considering how common piles is, each one of us has various queries in mind. Some of those may be cleared by a wise grandma in the house, some may be solved by the internet and some by dealing with piles themselves. And yet, there may be some doubts that still linger on. As you read on, we hope that most of your ideas about piles are clearer.

We also understand that no matter how innocuous the procedure or how adroit the surgeon, going through a surgery can be a daunting challenge even for the lionhearted. Therefore we have also answered a few treatment-related queries that you may still have, to give you a clearer picture of your journey towards a Piles-free you!


Will a change in diet improve symptoms of piles?

In case you have early piles, the answer is a definite YES. Since straining on the toilet is one of the commonest reasons why hemorrhoids develop, avoiding constipation and having to strain is vital to improve symptoms. Eating a healthy fiber-rich diet that contains plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, drinking plenty of water, keeping active and keeping stress levels under control all help the bowel to function efficiently.

Why does the skin around my anus get itchy when I have piles?

Itching is a common symptom of piles. The itching can be caused by mucus, skin tags or in case you do not maintain hygiene.

Mucus from your rectum can leak out, making it itch. If this happens, you may also find that you occasionally leak feces, which may increase the itching.If you have external piles, these may cause skin tags to develop. These can cause itching. Skin tags can also make it difficult for you to clean yourself properly after you have a bowel movement, causing further itching and discomfort.

Are skin tags the same as piles?

Skin tags are not the same as piles, but the two are commonly associated. Perianal skin tags are common and you may develop them if you get external piles. External piles are swellings that develop on the outside edge of your anus. Blood clots can sometimes form in external piles and this will stretch your skin over the area. As the pile heals it will gradually shrink and leave behind a small tag of extra skin.

You can also get skin tags without having piles.Skin tags can make it difficult to clean yourself after you have a bowel movement. This can cause soreness and itching. Hence, it is important to ensure hygiene in case you have these.

What do I feel during the hemorrhoidectomyprocedure?

It's like taking a small nap! All you will feel is a small needle prick during your preparation for the procedure. The entire surgery takes about 30 minutes.

What happens after the operation?

You will normally be able to start drinking water shortly after the procedure and can start eating as soon as you are hungry. You will be able to get out of bed a few hours after surgery.

You are likely to have some pain after the procedure that is easily controlled with painkillers. You can expect a small amount of bleeding and wearing a pad will protect your clothes from getting soiled.

When can I go home?

If your operation is planned as a day care procedure you can go home as soon as the effect of the anesthetic has worn off, you have passed urine and you are comfortable, eating and drinking. Since a general anesthetic is used, it is advisable that a responsible adult take you home and stay with you for 24 hours.

Before you are discharged you will be advised about post-operative care, painkillers and laxatives.

What are my visits to the toilet going to be like?

You will normally open your bowels within 2-3 days of your operation. This may be uncomfortable at first and there could be a sense of 'urgency' (need to rush to the toilet). You may notice mild blood loss after each bowel movement but this will gradually reduce over the next few days. Maintain hygiene, and gently wash and keep the operation site clean.

It is important to maintain a regular bowel movement that should be well formed but soft. You may need to take prescribed laxatives for 2-4 weeks. Eating a high fiber diet and increasing water/fluid intake will help.

When will I get back to my routine activities?

You can return to normal physical and sexual activities when you feel comfortable. Anal sex should be avoided. You can return to work usually by the 5th day after the surgery, although this also depends on the type of work you do.

When should I seek help?


  • •  If you develop a fever above 100 F
  • •  Increasing pain, swelling, redness or discharge
  • •  Severe bleeding
  • •  Constipation >3 days