Talk about a pain in the butt: a huge percentage of South Africans encounter piles symptoms (also sometimes called jedijedi and officially known as haemorrhoids). But how to treat piles? And can you use a natural remedy? Here, everything you need to know about the pesky little suckers.
What Causes Piles?
Haemorrhoids (known in South Africa as piles) are swollen veins around the anus, categorised by itchiness and pain. Haemorrhoids can sit inside the rectum, where you may notice small amounts of bright red blood on toilet paper. They can also occur on the anus, protruding and causing pain and itchiness.
Haemorrhoids form when there’s increased pressure on the anus, which causes the veins in the area to swell and ultimately bulge. Increased pressure can cause piles when you’re spending a long time sitting on the toilet. Unfortunately, the prevalence of piles has sharply increased in recent years because more people spend their throne time doomscrolling.
‘Rrhoids can also form from constipation, which creates that extra toilet time. This causes strain on the surrounding vessels and veins and inflames them, says gastrointestinal specialist Dr Gina Sam. People who sit all day can also be plagued by haemorrhoids for the same reason: being on your bum (even in a seat) can also stress the veins down there. Pregnant women tend to be particularly affected by the problem, notes Dr Sam. This could stem from the congestion, blood flow and increased pressure from that baby bump, she says.
READ MORE: 15 Easy Ways To Sit Less And Move More – Even If You Have A Desk Job
Key Symptoms You’ve Got Piles
While booty issues aren’t exactly easy to see, if you have external piles – lumps that are in or around your anus – you might be able to spot them. Otherwise, you might be able to feel the enlarged bumps when you wipe, says Dr Sam.
Other symptoms, sometimes called jedijedi, are categorised by pain, swelling, itching and irritation in the area.
How To Treat Piles
Your best bet is to get to the root of the problem and treat not just the symptoms but the primary cause, says Dr Sam. If you’re constipated, for example, that means it’s time to take a hard look at your diet. “You want to be eating at least 25 to 30g of fibre a day and drinking eight to 10 glasses of water,” says Dr Sam.
So stock up on foods like apples, spinach, whole wheat bread, lentils, beans and nuts. Then, when you’re on the toilet, limit your time (read: no cellphones allowed!) to curb any potential straining. (You might not even realise you’re doing it.)
Chained to a desk? Make sure to take breaks every 15 minutes or so, even if it’s just to grab a drink of water and walk around. Not only can constant sitting cause the haemorrhoids themselves, it can also irritate the problem further, says Dr Sam. You could also try a standing desk. Other contributing factors for piles include heavy lifting, pregnancy, anal intercourse or obesity.
READ MORE: These Surprising Foods Will Work Wonders For Constipation, According To A New Study
Are There Natural Remedies For Piles?
Thankfully, natural remedies can be as simple as eating more fibre, drinking more water or using a cold compress on the area. This could be an ice pack wrapped in cloth. Other natural treatments for piles include using soothing aloe vera, stool softeners and sitz baths. Relief also comes in the form of OTC treatments, like AnuSol, an ointment, or suppositories.
READ MORE: 5 DIY Flavoured Waters For Every Situation
But remember, while these can help soothe your symptoms and decrease inflammation, they aren’t cure-alls. If the problem is interfering with your day-to-day or things are getting worse down there, see your doc, says Dr Sam. A pro can decrease the circulation of the haemorrhoid surgically to shrink its size or perform injection therapy if you’re seeing a lot of bleeding or discomfort, she says. And, change your toilet habits: bring a book or consider it much-needed time to let your mind wander unassisted.
This story was originally written by Cassie Shortsleeve and has been updated.
