The symptoms of piles or hemorrhoids are multiple and vary from person to person. For most people hemorrhoids does not just creep up on them. The warning signs may be there but some piles symptoms are subtle and therefore easily dismissed or ignored. 

Let's take a look at some of the simple signs that indicate you might have a piles problem. 

Itching - There may be an uncomfortable itch at your bottom entry that is hard to ignore but difficult to discuss with anyone. Who wants to tell someone they have an itch in this area. As a result the sufferer does little about the problem because it is embarrassing and after all maybe the itch will go away.

At this point the problem seems minor but if you are experiencing itching in this area and have dismissed other causes, begin a hemorrhoid treatment program before the symptoms become worse. 

Seepage   - At times when hemorrhoids flare up there could be small amounts of bowel or mucus that seeps through your bottom. This can occur with hemorrhoids since the rectum tissues may not properly close or retract after a bowel movement. 

Bleeding Piles - Sometimes when you go to the toilet you may see bright red blood on the toilet tissue when you wipe or possibly a few drops of red blood in the toilet. If you have ruled out other causes of bleeding then more than likely the hemorrhoid is bleeding. There are ways to treat this but don't take ibuprofen or aspirin as they can encourage further bleeding. 

Swelling or Inflammation   - This is a common sign of piles. You can tell when the hemorrhoids have swollen because it will be more difficult to use the bathroom and have a bowel movement. You may have more straining than usual.

If you find blue or purple patches of hard skin the hemorrhoid has become inflamed. This is a symptom of external hemorrhoids. The skin may be tender to the touch and painful due to the high number of nerves in the area. Again, seek treatment before symptoms get worse.      

Burning and Pain  - If you are experiencing burning and pain take immediate measures to find relief. There are natural remedies that may help ease the pain caused by continuous swelling of the hemorrhoid. It is important to address this symptom immediately before the hemorrhoid becomes prolapsed or thrombosed. If the pain is severe or unbearable medical attention may be required. 

To ease burning and pain soak in a warm sitz bath with epsom salt.  Once the soak is complete use an ice pack on the area to help reduce the pain. 

Prolapsed Tissue   - Lumpy masses of skin tissue protruding from the rectum is a sign of a prolapsed hemorrhoid. They generally occur due to internal hemorrhoids and tend to appear after a bowel movement. There may be heavy bleeding, mucus and alot of pain associated with a prolapsed hemorrhoid.

If you have any of these symptoms check with your doctor to rule out other causes in order to be sure you are dealing with a piles problem. How to get rid of piles will be easier to recognize after ruling out other ailments.