Piles in Kids

Piles is a medical condition where the veins of the anal region swell and inflame. This can be inside or outside the anal region and are known as internal or external piles respectively. When it is very discomforting for elders, it is definitely unbearable for children. Let us see how to deal with piles in kids. 

Case Study:

A parent came to the clinic with a 3-year old child complaining about rectal bleeding. He came and asked, “Does my child have piles?” The child was toilet training and had constipation. His mother noticed that he had some blood in the stool on the tissue while cleaning.

The doctor physically diagnosed the child and suggested home remedies to treat constipation. He said piles in children is a very common problem. He also explained to the parents about how to give a sitz bath if the child experiences pain. They had several doubts about their child going through this situation. Let us know what are the frequently asked questions by parents when their child suffers from piles.

What causes piles in children?

• Sitting on the toilet seat for more than 10 minutes may lead to blood stagnation in the pelvic area and collection of blood which may give rise to piles.
• If the child sits on the hard surface for a long period of time. 
• Children may strain while passing stool either due to constipation or digestion problems. The digestive disorder can be one of the reasons for piles in children.
• Make your child eat healthily. Not eating healthy and not drinking enough water can lead to constipation. 
• Although there is no scientific proof, piles can be hereditary. 
• Some kids throw tantrums and tend to cry a lot. Intense stress and crying make the blood rush to the pelvic region which further results in piles. 
• If the large intestine gets infected, it can aggravate the rectal area. This can lead to the formation of piles. 
• If there is any tumor in the colon, it can lead to piles in children. 

What are the Symptoms of Piles in Children?

If your child has piles, he or she may have the following symptoms: 

• A lump of mass around the anus
• Rectal bleeding, itching and pain or discomfort in the anal region
• Blood in stool
• There may be sticky mucus-like substance while defecation that results in itching in or around the anus
• Child fears about going to the washroom 

How to diagnose piles in kids?

Doctors usually do a physical examination of the anus or by conducting an internal anal exam. Since internal piles are soft and cannot be instantly diagnosed as piles, a doctor may use an anoscope or any other instrument that allows him to take a look inside the anus of the child. If the condition is severe, a doctor may examine the entire colon tract through colonoscopy.

How to Prevent Piles in Kids?

• Make him/her move, dance or exercise
• Give your child a high-fiber diet
• Make your child squat on the toilet seat in the Indian way to ease bowel movements
• Make sure your child drinks enough water
• Increase dairy products to normalize the digestive system
• Limit your child’s screen time, engage more in physical activity

Home remedies to treat piles in children

Here are some home remedies for piles that aim at relieving symptoms of piles in children:

• Sitz bath

Sitting in warm water a few times in a day can provide relief from pain to your child.

• Ice Pack

If there is any swelling in the anal region due to piles, ice pack can bring comfort.

• Hemorrhoids cream

You must consult a doctor to know the right ointment or piles cream for your child. 

• Stool softeners for kids

If constipation is a problem, then along with dietary changes you can also consult a doctor for laxatives or stool softeners for your child. If the natural fibers are not effective in treating piles, then fiber supplements may be a good option. Consult a doctor and do not decide this on your own.

Well, if the child is breastfed, constipation is unlikely in your child. It may happen because of formula milk. Also, children generally respond to these treatments. Consult a pediatrician or a general physician for alternate treatment options if further symptoms exist.  

Also Read: Coconut Oil for Hemorrhoids

Also Read: What are Best Food for Piles