Radha Murthy Radha Murthy Asked 9 months ago

Why are hemorrhoids called piles?

My mother-in-law was talking about 'piles' the other day, and I realized I always hear that term used interchangeably with 'hemorrhoids.' Are they actually the same thing, or is there a reason why we call them 'piles' here in India, or both?

6

6 answers

Ananya Menon Ananya Menon Joined May 2026 5 months ago
Most liked

Oh, I've heard both terms but never knew they were the same. Is it because they look like small piles or lumps? It's kind of confusing that there are two names for one thing. Thanks for asking this!

Geeta Sharma Geeta Sharma Joined Jun 2026 4 months ago

Ah, they're the same thing. Hemorrhoids is the clinical name, and piles is the colloquial term. It's important to know the right name when you're talking to a doctor or looking up treatments, otherwise you might get confused about tests or procedures. So many things cost money these days, don't want any confusion.

Rajesh Singh Rajesh Singh Joined Jul 2026 4 months ago

Both words refer to the same condition. 'Hemorrhoids' is the medical term, and 'piles' is the more common, informal term used by people. Think of it like 'headache' vs 'sir dard'. Koi fark nahi, same problem hai.

Powered by

Consult a gastroenterologist

Priya Reddy Priya Reddy Joined Jan 2026 9 months ago

They are actually the same thing, just different names! 'Hemorrhoids' is the medical term for swollen veins in the rectum or anus, and 'piles' is the common term used for it, probably because they appear as lumps or 'piles' of tissue. I had them myself, and a high-fiber diet with plenty of water really helps.

Sanjay Kapoor Sanjay Kapoor Joined Apr 2026 6 months ago

They are the same condition. Hemorrhoids is the medical term, while piles is the more common, everyday word for it. It's a condition that can be aggravated by lifestyle, like straining from constipation, which also relates to my BP management. Good fiber intake and regular checkups are key for overall health.

Related reads

All articles
Deepa Singh Deepa Singh Joined May 2026 5 months ago

It's just two different words for the same condition. Hemorrhoids is the clinical name. Similar to how my thyroid condition needs regular monitoring, any health issue needs proper medical attention. Don't self-diagnose based on names; see a doctor if you have symptoms.

Evidence-based health, reviewed by clinicians. Free, weekly.