Hemorrhoids vs. Skin Tags: Understanding the Differences

Piles, more commonly known as hemorrhoids and skin tags are similar in that they are both lumps that occur on the surface of the skin. However, the differences between the two conditions are striking.

Definitions

• Skin tags are small pieces of skin that hang off of the skin's surface and they are usually found on the chest, near the armpits or on the face. Piles occur when veins near the rectum are inflamed.

Causes

• Skin tags are typically caused when skin rubs up against other skin or skin is rubbed by clothing. The causes of piles include pregnancy, constipation and obesity.

Symptoms

• Skin tags are not painful and the typical symptom is the presence of a raised or hanging piece of skin that is brown or flesh colored. The symptoms of piles occur in the area of the anus and include itching, burning and pain.

Treatment

• Typically, skin tags do not need treatment unless they become an annoyance, at which time a physician can remove them by burning, cutting or freezing them off. The most common treatment for minor piles includes over the counter ointments but sometimes more serious piles require surgical removal.

Prevention

• Maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent both skin tags and piles. Piles can also be prevented through minimizing constipation, exercising consistently, and avoiding anal sex.