Piles, also known as hemorrhoids, can have different appearances depending on their location and size.
Internal Piles
Often, you won't see anything even if you have piles when looking at the area around your back passage. This is because many piles are located inside the anus and rectum. These internal piles typically do not protrude from the bottom and are not visible externally.
Larger Internal Piles
Larger internal piles may descend out of the back passage. When this happens, they appear as a discoloured rubbery lump. This is what you would physically see if your pile protrudes.
| Pile Type | Appearance | Location | Visibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| Smaller Internal | Generally not visible. | Inside the anus and rectum | Not visible |
| Larger Internal | Discoloured, rubbery lump. | May hang down out of the back passage | Visible when protruding |
Practical Insights
- Not always visible: Remember, most piles are internal, so you may not see them.
- Protruding piles: If you do see a pile, it is likely a larger internal one that has descended.
- Discoloration: A visible pile will likely look discoloured compared to the surrounding skin.
- Texture: The texture of a visible pile will be rubbery.
