Don’t Fall for These Piles Myths – Know the Facts

 Piles, medically known as hemorrhoids, is a condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Yet, despite being so common, it is often surrounded by misinformation and stigma. This discomfort around openly discussing piles leads many people to delay treatment or believe in myths that worsen their condition over time. Knowing the facts and breaking free from these misconceptions is important to ensure timely diagnosis and care.

If you experience symptoms like pain during bowel movements, bleeding, itching, or lumps around the anus, it’s essential to consult a qualified gastroenterologist. Early diagnosis makes treatment easier and helps avoid unnecessary complications.

Let’s break down some of the common myths about piles and understand the truth behind them.

Myth 1: Only Older People Suffer from Piles

Many people believe that hemorrhoids only affect elderly individuals. While it’s true that advancing age increases the risk of developing piles, it doesn’t mean that younger people are safe from it.

In reality, piles can develop at any age. Poor eating habits, lack of physical activity, chronic constipation, straining during bowel movements, and even genetic factors can lead to piles in younger adults and children. With sedentary lifestyles becoming increasingly common, cases of piles in the younger population are on the rise.

No matter your age, if you’re experiencing symptoms of hemorrhoids, it’s essential to get them evaluated by a specialist to prevent worsening of the condition.

Myth 2: Eating Spicy Food Causes Piles

This is one of the most common misconceptions regarding piles. Many people blame spicy food for causing hemorrhoids and avoid their favorite meals thinking it will worsen their condition.

In truth, spicy food alone does not cause piles. The real culprit is a low-fiber diet that leads to hard stools and constipation, making bowel movements painful and causing straining. Straining during defecation increases pressure in the veins of the rectal area, leading to the formation of piles over time.

Spicy foods may irritate an already sensitive digestive system, especially if you already have hemorrhoids, but they don’t cause the condition in the first place. Including fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lentils, and whole grains, along with drinking enough water daily, is much more important for digestive health and preventing piles.

Myth 3: Sitting on Cold Surfaces Causes Hemorrhoids

It is often said that sitting on cold floors or surfaces leads to piles, but this belief is not based on medical facts.

The temperature of the surface you sit on has nothing to do with hemorrhoid development. The real risk comes from sitting in the same position for extended periods. Prolonged sitting, whether on a soft or hard surface, restricts blood flow in the anal area and increases pressure on the veins, eventually leading to swollen veins or piles.

Regular movement, short walks, and stretching can help prevent this problem. Those who work long hours at desks or drive for extended periods should take frequent breaks to stand or move around.

Myth 4: Surgery Is the Only Treatment for Piles

Many people delay seeking medical advice because they fear they will need surgery for piles. However, this fear is often unnecessary because most cases of piles can be treated without any surgical intervention.

Only severe or complicated cases of hemorrhoids require surgical treatment. Mild and moderate cases can usually be managed with lifestyle changes, medications, and non-surgical procedures. Dietary changes, drinking more water, regular physical activity, and proper toilet habits often bring significant relief.

Even in severe cases, modern surgical techniques are minimally invasive, offering quicker recovery with less discomfort. Consulting a qualified gastroenterologist will help determine the right treatment plan based on your condition.

Myth 5: Hemorrhoids Are Contagious

Some people hesitate to even talk about piles due to the belief that the condition is contagious. Fortunately, this is entirely false.

Hemorrhoids are swollen veins caused by factors such as straining, chronic constipation, pregnancy, obesity, or prolonged sitting. They are purely related to internal physical conditions and are not spread from person to person. Touching, sharing personal items, or any form of physical contact cannot transmit hemorrhoids.

The stigma surrounding piles often prevents people from seeking help, worsening their condition. It’s important to debunk this myth and spread the word that piles are a treatable condition, not something to hide or feel embarrassed about.

Taking Control: Managing Piles with the Right Approach

Ignoring symptoms or believing in these myths can lead to unnecessary suffering. Early intervention with the right treatment approach can significantly improve the condition. Managing piles involves a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle improvements, medications, and in some cases, minor medical procedures.

Increasing fiber intake is one of the most important lifestyle changes recommended for preventing and managing hemorrhoids. Fiber softens the stool and makes it easier to pass, reducing the need for straining. Drinking enough water, staying active, avoiding prolonged sitting, and developing healthy toilet habits are also critical in keeping piles at bay.

Timely consultation with a specialist can help diagnose the severity of your condition and guide you through effective treatment options tailored to your specific needs.

Where to Seek Help for Piles Treatment?

If you are experiencing symptoms of piles, don’t ignore them. Timely treatment ensures faster relief and prevents complications. Consulting an experienced gastroenterologist ensures that you receive accurate information, proper diagnosis, and the best available treatment options.

Vamsi Gastro and Liver Care, the best clinic in Bhimavaram, offers expert care for hemorrhoids and other gastrointestinal conditions. With a team of skilled specialists, advanced diagnostic tools, and personalized treatment plans, the hospital ensures you receive the best care possible.

Book Your Appointment

Don’t let myths delay your recovery. If you or your loved ones are facing discomfort or symptoms of piles, reach out for professional help today.

👉 Book your appointment with the best gastro doctor in Bhimavaram, Dr. Dantuluri Venkateswara Raju, MD, DM, and take the first step towards better digestive health.