Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower anus and rectum. They can develop when the veins in the anal canal become swollen due to various reasons, such as straining when going to the toilet, anal canal weakening with age, persistent cough, lifting heavy objects, and pregnancy. Piles can be internal or external, and their symptoms can vary between individuals. Some people may not experience any symptoms, while others may experience bleeding when passing stool, a lump in or around the anus, itching, pain, discomfort, and mucus in the underwear or on toilet paper after wiping the bottom. These symptoms can also be caused by other problems, such as inflammatory bowel disease, anal cancer, bowel cancer, and an anal fissure, so it is important to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. Treatment for piles may include lifestyle changes, such as drinking lots of fluids and eating plenty of fiber, taking warm baths, using creams to ease pain and swelling, and taking medication to help with constipation and soften stool. In severe cases, surgery may be required.