Difference Between Piles and Fissure – Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Many people confuse piles and fissure because both cause pain and bleeding in the anal area. However, they are two completely different conditions and require different treatments. Understanding the difference helps in getting the right treatment at the right time.

At Goyal Piles & Laser Centre, doctors first diagnose properly and then suggest the safest and most suitable treatment option.

What Are Piles?

Piles (also called haemorrhoids) are swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus. They may be internal or external.

Common symptoms of piles:

• Painless bleeding during stool (bright red)

• Swelling or lump near the anus

• Itching or irritation

• Mucus discharge

• Discomfort while sitting

Pain usually occurs only when piles become large, thrombosed or infected.

What Is an Anal Fissure?

An anal fissure is a small tear in the lining of the anus.

Common symptoms of fissure:

• Sharp, cutting pain during and after stool

• Burning sensation for hours

• Fresh bleeding on tissue or stool

• Fear of going to the toilet due to pain

Unlike piles, fissure pain is usually very severe.

Key Differences Between Piles and Fissures

A doctor’s examination is important to confirm the condition.

Causes of Piles

• Chronic constipation

• Straining during bowel movements

• Pregnancy

• Obesity

• Sitting for long hours

• Low-fiber diet

Causes of Anal Fissure

• Passing hard stool

• Chronic diarrhea

• Straining repeatedly

• Childbirth

• Anal infection

Sometimes fissure becomes chronic and requires advanced treatment.

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose piles and fissure through:

• Physical examination

• Proctoscopy (if required)

• Medical history discussion

Self-diagnosis or home remedies without guidance may worsen the problem.

Treatment Options

For Piles

• Diet changes and fiber

• Medicines and ointments

• Minimally invasive options like:

• Laser treatment

• Band ligation (in selected cases)

Laser procedures help reduce pain and recovery time.

For Fissure

• Stool softeners

• Warm sitz baths

• Ointments prescribed by doctor

• Laser treatment for chronic fissure

The right treatment depends on the stage of disease.

Prevention Tips for Both

• Drink enough water

• Eat fiber-rich food

• Avoid straining in the toilet

• Exercise regularly

• Do not ignore constipation

• Seek timely medical help

Small lifestyle changes can prevent recurrence.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should visit a specialist if you notice:

• Repeated bleeding

• Persistent pain

• Swelling or discharge

• Difficulty passing stool

• Symptoms not improving

Early treatment avoids complications and surgery.

Conclusion

Piles and fissure may look similar, but they are different conditions requiring different treatments. Correct diagnosis and timely management ensure better relief and faster recovery.

If you have pain or bleeding, do not feel embarrassed — expert care can help.

Contact Us

For accurate diagnosis and advanced treatment for piles, fissures, and other anorectal problems, visit us:

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 best treatment option for you.