A Simple Guide to Piles (KooKo) for Ghanaians

Piles, also called hemorrhoids, are swollen veins found in or around the anus. In Ghana, people call this condition “kooko.” Piles can be painful or uncomfortable, but understanding their causes, symptoms, and treatments can help you manage them well [1][2].

Image: Piles can be painful or uncomfortable

1. What Are Piles?

Piles are swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus.

1. Internal piles: inside the anus, may bleed but cause little pain.
2. External piles: outside the anus, can cause pain, swelling, and itching [2][3].

❌ Myths like “piles in the head” or “piles on the face” are false. Piles occur only in the anal area.

Image: Constipation

Image: Long hours of sitting

Image: Pregnancy

2. What Causes Piles?

1. Constipation: Straining to pass stool puts pressure on anal veins [1].
2. Pregnancy and childbirth: Hormonal changes and pressure from the baby can lead to piles [3].
3. Sitting too long: Drivers, office workers, and others who sit for hours are at higher risk.
4. Poor diet: Low-fibre foods, too little water, and alcohol worsen constipation.
5. Family history and age: Risk increases if relatives have piles or as you get older.