Updated on 23 Dec 2025
Hemorrhoids, also known as piles, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They are a very common condition that affects millions of people at some point in their lives. While sometimes hemorrhoids go away on their own, other times, lifestyle changes or medical procedures may be needed to relieve symptoms.
This blog explores the various options for hemorrhoid treatment, including symptoms and diagnosis methods.
What are hemorrhoids?
Also known as piles, hemorrhoids are swollen and inflamed veins located in the lower rectum or anus. They generally occur when there is increased pressure in these blood vessels. This pressure causes a stretch and a bulge. It can be internal, developing inside the rectum, or external, under the skin around the anus.
Types of hemorrhoids:
- Internal: These are swollen veins inside your rectum. They can cause bleeding, but it is generally not painful.
- External: These are visible, swollen veins under the skin around your anus. They can be itchy and painful while pooping.
- Prolapsed: Internal hemorrhoids may protrude outside the anus, leading to bleeding or pain.
- Thrombosed: These are painful purple or blue blood clots that form in external hemorrhoids (outside around your anus).
What are the symptoms of hemorrhoids?
The symptoms of hemorrhoids can vary depending on the type (internal or external). Some key signs include:
- Itching or irritation around the anus.
- Discomfort or pain, especially while sitting.
- Swelling or lumps around the anal opening.
- Bleeding during bowel movement. This is generally painless and seen as bright red blood.
- In rare cases, there may be mucus discharge.
How are hemorrhoids diagnosed?
Your doctor may use a combination of symptom evaluation and physical exams to diagnose hemorrhoids. Some common ways include:
- Medical history review: The doctor inquires about symptoms, lifestyle, diet, and bowel habits.
- Physical examination: They may inspect the anal area for visible swelling, lumps or irritation.
- Digital rectal exam (DRE): To evaluate the internal hemorrhoids, lumps or other abnormalities, a lubricated gloved finger is gently inserted.
- Anoscopy: To view the inside of the anal canal, a small and lighted tube is used. It is done for better detection of internal hemorrhoids.
- Proctoscopy or sigmoidoscopy: If necessary, your doctor will conduct a detailed examination to rule out other conditions, such as polyps or colonic diseases.
- Colonoscopy (if needed): This is recommended if there is rectal bleeding or risk of colorectal cancer.
What is the treatment for hemorrhoids?
Various hemorrhoid treatment options are available, including:
Home Treatment
Eat a balanced diet
It is important to eat a well-balanced diet to keep your stomach and digestive system healthy. This can be done by simply avoiding fatty, junk, and spicy food, which will give you a healthier digestive system and keep your problems at bay.
Maintain good personal hygiene
It is always important to maintain good hygiene. Wash the anal region properly every time you go to pee or bowel movement to avoid any sort of skin infection, which can deteriorate the skin condition and could make peri-anal irritation worse.
Oral medication
Some minor symptoms of hemorrhoids, such as discomfort or irritation, can be alleviated by taking the prescribed medicines. If you don't get relief with these treatments, it is advisable to contact your healthcare provider.
Other Treatments
The other treatments for internal hemorrhoids include:
Injection
It is a procedure where a chemical is injected into the hemorrhoid, which numbs the pain and stops any bleeding. This injection will help to decrease the size of hemorrhoids for about 4 to 6 weeks.
Rubber band ligation
This is a procedure where a very tight elastic band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. It causes the hemorrhoid to fall off and pass out of the body within 7 to 10 days of treatment.
Coagulation
This coagulation technique uses laser or infrared light or heat to harden and shrink the small, bleeding internal hemorrhoids.
Surgical Procedures
This procedure is done when the other treatment options haven't worked, or the person has large hemorrhoids. So, the healthcare provider might recommend one of the following surgical procedures:
Hemorrhoidectomy
In this procedure, the surgeon will remove an extra tissue hemorrhoid that causes bleeding by using a technique called hemorrhoidectomy.
Hemorrhoid stapling
This procedure, called stapled hemorrhoidopexy, is performed to block blood flow to internal hemorrhoidal tissue.
Conclusion
Hemorrhoids are common and manageable, especially when symptoms like bleeding, itching, or discomfort are recognised early. Seeking medical help is critical to prevent your condition from worsening. Even if the symptoms subside at home within a few days, preparing yourself for unexpected medical expenses by buying individual health insurance can be beneficial. It can help cover the costs of hospitalisation, medicines, tests and overall treatment.
For broader health protection, personalised guidance on health insurance plans is available through the form on this page.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a certified medical and/or nutrition professional for any questions. Relying on any information provided in this blog is solely at your own risk, and ICICI Lombard is not responsible for any effects or consequences resulting from the use of the information shared.