With more people spending long hours sitting at desks, doctors are witnessing a rise in cases of piles among working professionals. Hence, sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary habits, inadequate hydration, and lack of physical activity are contributing to this growing health concern.
Pune: Piles (hemorrhoids) are often considered a problem affecting older adults. Unfortunately, experts are now increasingly diagnosing this unpleasant condition among working professionals. Long hours of sitting, limited movement, unhealthy eating habits, and ignoring symptoms of discomfort while sitting, painless rectal bleeding, itching, and irritation down there can raise the chances of piles. Experts stress that simple lifestyle changes and timely medical attention can improve quality of life.
Piles is becoming common among individuals with 9-5 desk-based jobs.
Dr Kiran Kumar Jadhav, General Surgeon, Apollo Spectra Pune Said , “Many professionals spend eight to ten hours or more sitting at their desks every day. Prolonged sitting increases pressure on the veins around the rectal area, which can contribute to the development of piles. This risk becomes even greater when combined with low water intake, lack of fiber in the diet, constipation, and absence of exercise. There has been nearly a 60% increase in piles cases among the working population. Monthly, around 6 out of 10 office workers aged 30-45 report symptoms such as rectal discomfort, itching, pain, bleeding during bowel movements, swelling, or a feeling of incomplete bowel evacuation. If left untreated, piles can lead to persistent pain, recurrent bleeding, anemia, and difficulties in daily activities.”
Dr. Jadhav further added, “Piles can often be prevented through simple lifestyle modifications. It is necessary to have a fibre-rich diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and salads. Avoid junk, spicy, and canned foods. Drinking adequate water throughout the day helps prevent constipation and reduces strain during bowel movements. Taking short movement breaks every hour, avoiding prolonged sitting, exercising regularly, and responding promptly to the urge to defecate are equally important. Early consultation can help identify the severity of the condition and prevent complications like prolapsed haemorrhoids and constant rectal bleeding. Today, advanced minimally invasive procedures are available that allow effective treatment with faster recovery and minimal discomfort.”
Dr. Shahid Parvez, Consultant Laparoscopic and General Surgeon, AIMS Hospital, Dombivli Said , “Many working professionals ignore symptoms such as occasional bleeding or discomfort due to embarrassment or the misconception that piles are a minor issue. There has been around a 30% rise in piles cases among office goers due to prolonged sitting, lack of hydration and exercise, and poor eating habits. Approximately, in a month, 3 out of 10 working professionals aged between 30 and 45 visit me with hemorrhoids, but often postpone seeking medical help and struggle in silence. Awareness about the impact of prolonged sitting on rectal health is essential in today's workplace environment. Make sure to keep moving, eat a balanced diet inclusive of fibre, stay hydrated, manage constipation, and prevent piles.”