Question 1

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF PILES?

Accepted Answer

Common symptoms of piles include pain and itching in the anal area, blood on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl after a bowel movement, a sensation of a lump near the anus, as well as mucus discharge from the anus.

Question 2

HOW ARE HAEMORRHOIDS AND PILES DIAGNOSED?

Accepted Answer

To diagnose haemorrhoids, a doctor will first conduct a physical examination. This typically involves a visual inspection of the anus and surrounding area. If internal haemorrhoids are suspected, they may perform a digital rectal exam, in which the doctor will gently insert a lubricated and gloved finger into the rectum to feel for the presence of haemorrhoids. In a few cases, an additional test called a sigmoidoscopy or colonoscopy might be recommended to rule out other serious causes of bleeding, such as colorectal polyps or cancer.

Question 3

WHAT ARE THE TYPES OF PILES?

Accepted Answer

Internal Piles: These piles develop within the rectum and usually does not cause any pain or discomfort. However, some may protrude from the anal canal upon straining. In mild cases, the piles can be manually pushed back in; in more serious cases, the protruding piles are unable to be pushed back into the anal canal.
External Piles: External piles develop around the anus, and is characterised by a lump near or around the anus. They may cause pain, itching and bleeding; and are not reducible. External piles are at risk of developing sudden and painful blood clots (thrombosis).
Thrombosed Piles: Thrombosed piles are piles that are filled with blood clots. They present with severe symptoms such as intense pain, burning, itching and swelling. They must be quickly treated to prevent the loss of blood supply and tissue damage.

Question 4

WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF HAEMORRHOID SURGERY?

Accepted Answer

Haemorrhoid surgery, like any medical procedure, comes with certain risks that one should be aware of. This includes temporary pain and bleeding, infection, anal stricture, recurrence of haemorrhoids, or faecal incontinence caused by damage to the anal sphincter muscles.
However, in experienced hands, the risk of complications are rare. Most people recover smoothly, especially when they follow proper postoperative care instructions.

Question 5

When is surgery needed for piles/haemorrhoids?

Accepted Answer

Piles surgery is considered when other haemorrhoid treatments have not provided adequate relief, or if the condition is severe. This includes piles that cause persistent and significant bleeding, severe pain, or when they are large, prolapsed, or thrombosed.

Question 6

Can sitting on hot surfaces cause piles?

Accepted Answer

This is a common myth. Haemorrhoids are caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum, which occur due to straining during bowel movements, chronic constipation or diarrhoea, obesity, pregnancy, or prolonged sitting.

Question 7

Can spicy foods contribute to the development of piles?

Accepted Answer

While spicy foods can irritate the lining of the gastrointestinal tract and sometimes cause a burning sensation during bowel movements, it does not directly cause piles nor increase the risk of developing them.

Question 8

Can piles recur even after receiving treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, piles can recur even after receiving piles treatment in Singapore. If you continue to strain during bowel movements, sit for long periods, are obese, and so on, the blood vessels in the rectum can become inflamed again (piles).

Question 9

Can stress worsen piles?

Accepted Answer

While stress itself doesn't directly cause or worsen piles, it can indirectly contribute to conditions that might exacerbate an existing case of haemorrhoids. For instance, high levels of stress can lead to an upset stomach in the form of diarrhoea or constipation.

Question 10

What happens if piles are left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Firstly, leaving piles untreated could cause symptoms to worsen, resulting in greater discomfort. This is particularly concerning if bleeding following a bowel movement is involved. Furthermore, some piles may become thrombosed or strangulated, which is very painful and requires immediate medical attention.

Question 11

Do haemorrhoids lead to cancer?

Accepted Answer

There is no evidence to suggest that hemorrhoids can lead to cancer. However, they can exhibit some similar symptoms, such as rectal bleeding. Therefore, if you experience symptoms like rectal bleeding, be sure to seek medical attention in order to get a proper diagnosis.

Tel	: +65 6518 4688
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Email	: info@thesurgeons.sg

Tel	: +65 6518 4868
Whatsapp	: +65 9641 4081
Fax	: +65 6443 6616
Email	: info@thesurgeons.sg

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