Piles (also known as hemorrhoids) are a common but often uncomfortable condition that affects many individuals in Singapore. While mild cases can be managed with lifestyle changes and home remedies, severe or persistent piles may require medical intervention. If you are experiencing chronic pain, bleeding, or discomfort, consulting a piles doctor in Singapore can help you find the right treatment, including surgical options if necessary.
What Are Piles?
Piles are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus. They can develop internally (inside the rectum) or externally (under the skin around the anus). While not life-threatening, they can cause significant discomfort, itching, and bleeding.
Types Of Piles
- Internal piles – Located inside the rectum, they are usually painless but can cause bleeding during bowel movements. In severe cases, they may prolapse (bulge out of the anus).
- External piles – Found under the skin around the anus, they can cause itching, swelling, and pain, especially when sitting or passing stools.
- Thrombosed piles – These occur when a blood clot forms in an external hemorrhoid, leading to severe pain and swelling.
Why Do Piles Occur?
Several factors contribute to the development of piles, including:
Chronic Constipation And Straining
Straining during bowel movements puts excessive pressure on the veins in the rectum and anus, leading to swelling and irritation. A diet low in fibre and inadequate water intake can make stools harder to pass, increasing the risk of piles.
Sedentary Lifestyle
Long hours of sitting, common among office workers in Singapore, can slow blood circulation in the pelvic area, contributing to piles formation.
Pregnancy And Childbirth
Pregnant women are more likely to develop piles due to increased pressure on the rectal veins and hormonal changes. The strain of childbirth can also worsen the condition.
Obesity
Excess weight exerts additional pressure on the lower rectum, making piles more likely to develop. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise can help reduce this risk.
Ageing
As people age, the tissues supporting the veins in the rectum and anus weaken, increasing the likelihood of piles. This is why piles are more common in individuals over 50.
When Should You See A Piles Doctor In Singapore?
Many cases of piles improve with lifestyle changes and over-the-counter treatments. However, if you experience any of the following symptoms, it is advisable to consult a piles doctor in Singapore:
- Persistent bleeding during bowel movements
- Severe pain or discomfort in the anal area
- Prolapsed piles that do not retract on their own
- A lump or swelling near the anus
- Signs of infection, such as fever or excessive swelling
Delaying medical attention can lead to complications such as anaemia (due to chronic blood loss) or severe thrombosis, which may require emergency treatment.
It should also be noted that piles share a common symptom as colorectal cancer, i.e. rectal bleeding. If you experience this, you should see a specialist who would investigate and diagnose your condition to rule out cancer e.g. with a colonoscopy.
Learn More: Colonoscopy For Colorectal Cancer Screening >>
Treatment Options For Piles
Non-Surgical Treatments
For mild to moderate hemorrhoids, non-surgical treatments may be recommended, including:
- Dietary And Lifestyle Changes – Increasing fibre intake, drinking more water, and avoiding prolonged sitting can help relieve symptoms and prevent piles from worsening.
- Medications – Topical creams, suppositories, or oral medications can reduce inflammation and provide symptom relief.
When Is Surgery Needed?
Surgical intervention is necessary for severe, persistent, or complicated piles. Common surgical procedures include:
Rubber Band Ligation
A small rubber band is placed around the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off.
Hemorrhoidectomy
A hemorrhoidectomy is the most effective treatment for large, prolapsed, or thrombosed hemorrhoids. This procedure involves the complete removal of hemorrhoidal tissue and provides long-term relief. It is usually recommended when other treatments fail.
Stapled Hemorrhoidopexy (PPH)
Also known as stapling, this procedure is used for prolapsed hemorrhoids. It involves repositioning the hemorrhoidal tissue and cutting off its blood supply, allowing it to shrink over time. Stapled hemorrhoidopexy generally causes less pain and has a quicker recovery time than traditional hemorrhoidectomy.
Transanal Hemorrhoidal Dearterialisation
This procedure uses an ultrasound to locate the arteries supplying blood to the hemorrhoids. The surgeon ties off these arteries to reduce blood flow to the hemorrhoids, causing them to shrink.
Choosing The Right Piles Doctor In Singapore
If you are struggling with persistent piles, seeking treatment from an experienced colorectal surgeon or hemorrhoids specialist in Singapore is essential. When choosing a specialist, consider:
- Experience In Treating Complex Piles Cases
- Hospital Affiliation And Surgical Facilities
- Patient Reviews And Success Rates
Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent complications and significantly improve quality of life.
Learn More: How To Find The Best Colorectal Surgeon In Singapore >>
Don’t Let Piles Affect Your Life
piles can be uncomfortable and disruptive, but effective treatment is available in Singapore. If home remedies are not working or your symptoms are worsening, consulting a piles doctor in Singapore is the best step towards relief.
Schedule A Consultation Today
If you are experiencing persistent pain, bleeding, or discomfort, don’t wait. Consult a leading colorectal surgeon in Singapore for expert diagnosis and treatment. Contact a specialist today and take the first step towards better health.
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.