Is It Piles or Fissure? How to Identify the Difference Early
Many patients feel confused when they experience pain or bleeding during bowel movements. The most common question is whether the problem is piles (haemorrhoids) or an anal fissure. Although both conditions affect the anal area and may show similar symptoms, they are different problems and require different treatment approaches.
Understanding the difference early helps in getting the right treatment and avoiding complications.
What Are Piles?
Piles are swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus. They develop due to increased pressure in the lower rectum, commonly caused by constipation, straining, pregnancy or prolonged sitting.
Common Symptoms of Piles:
Bright red bleeding during motion
Swelling or lump near the anus
Itching or irritation
Mild to moderate discomfort
Mucus discharge
Pain in piles is usually mild unless the piles become thrombosed or infected.
What Is an Anal Fissure?
An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus. It often develops due to passing hard stool or repeated straining.
Common Symptoms of Fissure:
Sharp, cutting pain during bowel movements
Burning sensation that lasts for hours
Small amount of bleeding
Fear of passing stool due to pain
Pain in fissure is usually severe compared to piles.
Key Differences Between Piles and Fissure
Feature | Piles | Fissure |
Nature | Swollen veins | Tear in anal lining |
Pain | Mild (usually) | Severe sharp pain |
Bleeding | Often painless | Painful bleeding |
Lump | May be present | Usually absent |
Cause | Pressure & straining | Hard stool injury |
Proper medical examination confirms the diagnosis.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Self-diagnosis can be misleading. Treating fissure as piles or ignoring symptoms may worsen the condition. Early consultation allows:
Treatment Options
For Piles:
For Fissure:
Treatment depends on severity and duration.
When Should You See a Doctor?
Seek medical advice if:
Bleeding happens repeatedly
Pain is severe
Symptoms last more than a week
Home remedies do not help
Early treatment prevents the need for major procedures.
Conclusion
Piles and fissure may appear similar but are different conditions. Piles usually cause painless bleeding, while fissure causes severe pain during bowel movements. Proper diagnosis ensures effective and safe treatment.
If you notice bleeding or pain during motion, consulting a specialist is the safest step.
Contact Us
For consultation and advanced treatment of piles, fissure, fistula and related conditions:
Address:
D-12/182, First Floor, Sector-8, Rohini
Delhi-110085
Near Rohini East Metro Station (Sai Baba Chowk)
Opposite Metro Pillar No. 393
Email:
[email protected]
Call Us:
+91-9999333166
+91-9292929271
+91-9999302222
Book your consultation and discuss the most suitable treatment option for you.