I have had piles for a long time. During bowel movements there is pain and burning, and sometimes a little bleeding. Constipation is frequent and I have to sit and work for long hours. Applying ointment gives some relief, but the problem comes back. What is the right remedy in Ayurveda without surgery? What changes should I make in diet and daily routine?
Hello
Have a Healthy Day !!
Welcome to the world of health from Ayurveda conducted by Dr. Nikul Patel.
Direct answer: The main cause of piles is usually long-standing constipation and straining during bowel movements. A fibre-rich diet, enough water, keeping the stool soft and Ayurvedic treatment give good relief to many people. If there is bleeding, a doctor’s examination is needed once.
Understanding the problem
Piles form when the veins of the anal passage swell. Straining, sitting long on the toilet, a sedentary life, excess weight and pregnancy increase the risk. Bleeding is not always from piles; it can also be a fissure or another problem.
The Ayurvedic view
In Ayurveda piles are called Arsha. Charaka Samhita considers Agnimandya (weak digestion) its root. Increased Vata causes constipation and pain, increased Pitta causes burning and bleeding, and increased Kapha causes swelling and stickiness. In treatment, improving Agni and Vata Anulomana (proper downward movement of Vata) are the main approach. Ayurveda also describes special treatments such as Ksharasutra and Ksharakarma.
Practical steps
- Do not strain during bowel movements; do not sit more than 5 minutes, and not with a mobile.
- Sit in lukewarm water (sitz bath), 10 minutes once or twice a day.
- If you sit for long hours, stand up and walk every hour.
- Daily walking, weight control.
Diet
- 8-10 glasses of water daily; buttermilk (in the daytime), vegetables, fruits, isabgol, whole grains.
- Ghee in moderation (keeps the stool soft).
- Less spicy, fried food, refined flour, excess tea and coffee, alcohol; no heavy food late at night.
Medicine and Panchakarma
In Ayurveda, herbs such as Triphala, Haritaki, Abhayarishta, Kankayan Vati and Nagkesar (when bleeding) are considered useful in Arsha. The right medicine, dose and duration will be decided by the Vaidya after examining your condition. In large or protruding piles, Ksharasutra-Ksharakarma can be considered under expert supervision.
When to see a doctor immediately?
- Heavy bleeding, dizziness, weakness
- Black stool, weight loss, long-lasting change in bowel habits
- A pile that comes out and does not go back, severe pain
- Bleeding for the first time after the age of 40
Related Questions
What is Ksharasutra?
A special Ayurvedic treatment using a medicated thread, done only by an expert.
What is the difference between piles and a fissure?
Piles are swollen veins; a fissure is a tear in the anal passage, with severe pain.
Which foods should be avoided in piles?
Spicy, fried food, refined flour and too little water; increase fibre and water.
In short: The main cause of piles (Arsha) is long-standing constipation and straining. A fibre-rich diet, enough water, sitz baths, Ayurvedic care such as Triphala and, when needed, Ksharasutra can give much relief without surgery.
You can seek advice for an in-person examination.
Dr. Nikul Patel (B.A.M.S.)
307, 3rd Floor, Shalin Complex, Above Farki Lassi, Krishnabaug Char Rasta, Maninagar, Ahmedabad – 380008
Timings: 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM | Saturday–Sunday: Closed
📍 Clinic Location — Google Maps