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Understanding Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment
Haemorrhoids, commonly referred to as piles, are a prevalent condition among Singaporeans. While some cases of piles may resolve on their own after a few days, others can persist, causing significant discomfort and requiring medical intervention.
The best solution to (haemorrhoids) piles treatment in Singapore is surgery, but there are other ways to treat this problem, such as using topical medication and other conservative treatments. These methods can be used for mild cases or to treat small bleeding piles, while surgery will be needed for more severe cases.
What Are Haemorrhoids (Piles)?
Haemorrhoids are also known as piles. They are swollen clusters of blood vessels found inside or around the rectum and anus. Haemorrhoids fall into two categories: internal haemorrhoids which are inside the anal canal, and external haemorrhoids which are outside around the anus.
Internal haemorrhoids usually go unnoticed until they cause bleeding during a bowel motion, or until they become prolapsed.
External haemorrhoids, on the other hand, tend to be more uncomfortable due to the irritation and erosion of overlying skin around the area. In severe cases, they may require one to seek piles treatment from a reputable colorectal doctor or haemorrhoids (piles) specialist in Singapore. Discover how a colonoscopy in Singapore can help identify underlying causes of symptoms like haemorrhoids (piles), providing crucial insights for effective treatment.
Common Symptoms Of Hemorrhoids Or Piles
- Rectal bleeding: Seeing blood in the toilet bowl after passing motion.
- Pain or discomfort: Piles can cause pain or discomfort, especially during bowel movements or when seated for extended periods.
- Itching or irritation: Persistent itching around the anus is another symptom of haemorrhoids, often caused by mucus leakage or irritation from stool.
- Swelling or lump near the anus: External haemorrhoids may appear as swollen lumps or masses near the anus.
- Protrusion or prolapse: In severe cases, internal haemorrhoids may protrude outside the anus (prolapse) during bowel movements or while sitting.
Recognising these symptoms and consulting a (haemorrhoids) piles specialist can help in diagnosing haemorrhoids early and determining the most appropriate treatment.
Causes Of Haemorrhoids (Hemorrhoids)
Haemorrhoids (piles) are caused by increased pressure in the blood vessels in and around your anus. This pressure can cause the blood vessels in your back passage to become swollen and inflamed.
The (haemorrhoids) piles cases that we have seen in our clinic were mostly caused by too much straining on the toilet, due to prolonged constipation.Additionally, sitting for extended periods on the toilet, particularly while using electronic devices such as a handphone, can cause the blood vessels around the anus to become congested and enlarged, which is likely the most common cause of haemorrhoids.
OTHER FACTORS THAT MIGHT INCREASE YOUR RISK OF DEVELOPING HAEMORRHOIDS INCLUDE:
- Age – as you get older, your body’s supporting tissues get weaker, increasing your risk of haemorrhoids.
- Being pregnant – which can place increased pressure on your pelvic blood vessels, causing them to enlarge.
- Having a family history of haemorrhoids.
Haemorrhoid (Piles) Treatment In Singapore
Haemorrhoid (Piles) treatment in Singapore depends on how severe your condition is. For mild cases of piles, we would recommend dietary adjustments, increasing intake of fibre and water to ease passing of stools. Patients may also find relief with a warm sitz bath or cold compress to soothe the swelling.
In cases where these measures are not sufficient, prescription medications may be necessary. Your (haemorrhoids) piles doctor might prescribe topical treatments for severe symptoms or recommend stool softeners to make bowel movements less painful and reduce straining.
For more persistent or severe haemorrhoids, minimally invasive haemorrhoids (piles) surgery procedures may be required. These include:
- Rubber band ligation: A tight band is placed around the base of the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to fall off.
In the most severe cases, haemorrhoids (piles) surgery might be necessary, such as:
- Haemorrhoidectomy: Surgical removal of severe or prolapsed haemorrhoids (piles).
Cost Of Haemorrhoids (Piles) Treatment From A Specialist Clinic
When considering the cost of piles treatment options or haemorrhoids in Singapore, understanding the financial implications is crucial. The cost of treating piles can vary depending on treatment type, condition severity and the medical facility chosen.
Conservative treatments: In Singapore, conservative piles treatments typically range between S$10 to S$100, making them the most affordable option. These treatments are suitable for mild cases of haemorrhoids.
Non-surgical treatments: Rubber band ligation is often used for second-degree haemorrhoids. The cost for such piles treatments usually ranges from S$400 to S$500.
Surgical treatments: Severe cases of haemorrhoids (piles) often require surgery. These complex surgeries are more expensive than minimally invasive procedures. The cost for haemorrhoids (piles) surgery can range from S$2,000 to S$4,000 or more, depending on the extent of the procedure and the piles specialist you choose.
Our detailed breakdown of the cost of colonoscopy in Singapore helps you understand the financial aspects of this crucial diagnostic tool used in hemorrhoid treatment.
Severity: Types Of Haemorrhoids (Piles)
Haemorrhoids (Piles) can be classified, depending on their size and severity. They can be:
- First-degree – small swellings that develop on the inside lining of the anus and aren’t visible from outside the anus
- Second-degree – larger swellings that may come out of your anus when you go to the toilet, before disappearing inside again on its own. (prolapsing but spontaneously reducing)
- Third-degree – one or more small soft lumps that hang down from the anus and can be pushed back inside using a finger. (prolapsing and reducible)
- Fourth-degree – larger lumps that hang down from the anus and can’t be pushed back inside (irreducible)
In general, first-degree haemorrhoids (piles) are treated with medication and lifestyle changes (increase fibre), and second-degree haemorrhoids are suitable for removal with rubber band ligation. Third and fourth-degree haemorrhoids usually require surgery to remove. (see below)
Haemorrhoids (Piles) Surgery (Third And Fourth-Degree Hemorrhoids)
Although most haemorrhoids (piles) can be treated using the methods described above, approximately 1 in every 10 people will eventually require surgery. There are various surgical treatments available,but they generally involve either removing the haemorrhoids or reducing their blood supply, causing them to shrink.
Hemorrhoidectomy
A hemorrhoidectomy is a surgery to remove haemorrhoids (piles). It is typically performed under general anaesthesia,soyou will be unconscious and pain-free during the operation. Recovery usually requires two weeks off work.
After the operation, you will likely experience significant pain, but painkillers will be provided to manage it. Some pain may persist for up to two weeks, which can also be managed with medication. If pain continues beyond this period, seek medical advice.
The likelihood of haemorrhoids (piles)returning after a haemorrhoidectomy is about 1 in 20, which is lower than with non-surgical treatments. To reduce the risk of recurrence, it is recommended to adopt or maintain a high-fibre diet after surgery.
Stapler Hemorrhoidopexy
Stapler hemorrhoidopexy, is an alternative to a conventional hemorrhoidectomy, sometimes used to treat prolapsed haemorrhoids (piles). It is performed under general anaesthetic. This surgery is less common now due to a higher risk of serious complications.
During the operation, part of the anorectum (the last section of the large intestine) is stapled. This reduces the likelihood of haemorrhoids prolapsing and decreases their blood supply, causing them to gradually shrink. It is important to note that the haemorrhoids are not removed,and a permanent staple line will remain in the anorectum.
Stapling generally has a shorter recovery time compared to traditional hemorrhoidectomy, allowing you to return to work within about a week. It also tends to be less painful.
However, stapling has a higher recurrence rate for prolapsed haemorrhoids compared to haemorrhoidectomy. There have been rare but serious complications following the stapling procedure, such as the development of a fistula to the vagina in women ( a small channel forming between the anal canal and the vagina) or rectal perforation (a hole developing in the rectum).
General Risks Of Hemorrhoids (Piles) Surgery
Although the risk of complications is small, they can occasionally occur after hemorrhoid surgery. These can include:
- Bleeding or passing blood clots, which may happen a week or so after the operation
- Infection, which may lead to a build-up of pus (known as an abscess) – you may be given a short course of antibiotics after surgery to reduce this risk
- Urinary retention (difficulty emptying your bladder)
- Faecal incontinence (the involuntarily passing of stools)
- Stenosis (narrowing of the anal canal)
How We Can Help With Haemorrhoids (Piles) Surgery
Dr QM Leong is an experienced haemorrhoids (piles) doctor with relevant medical specialities in fields such as colorectal cancer and piles treatment in Singapore. He will accurately diagnose your condition for any signs of haemorrhoids before determining the right treatment for you.
Advanced Colorectal & General Surgery is committed to providing a pleasant experience, treatment and patient care, so do not hesitate to call to find out about piles surgery in Singapore. Schedule an appointment with us to learn more about haemorrhoids and the cost of surgery.
Frequently Ask Questions
How long does it typically take to recover from a haemorrhoids (piles) treatment?
Recovery time will depend on the type of haemorrhoids treatment. Non-surgical treatments often have quicker recovery times, with patients going back to normal activities within a few days. Surgical procedures like haemorrhoidectomy may require up to two weeks for recovery.
What are the risks of haemorrhoids (piles) surgery?
Bleeding, infection, and damage to surrounding tissues are some risks associated with haemorrhoid surgery. The risks depend on the type of surgical treatment done and your overall health.
How do I prepare for haemorrhoids (piles) surgery?
Follow preoperative instructions such as dietary changes, medication adjustments, and bowel preparation as recommended by your surgeon. Avoid smoking and alcohol for at least a week before haemorrhoids surgery and stay well-hydrated. Prepare your home with necessary supplies like ice packs, prescribed medications, and over-the-counter pain relievers, and set up a comfortable resting area for recovery.
What should I expect during my first visit to a haemorrhoids (piles) specialist?
During your initial visit, the haemorrhoids (piles) specialist will take a detailed medical history, perform a physical examination, and recommend additional tests for an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.
How does a haemorrhoids (piles) specialist diagnose haemorrhoids in Singapore?
The haemorrhoids (piles) specialist will do a physical examination of the anus and rectum. In some cases, further diagnostic tests such as anoscopy or sigmoidoscopy may be performed to evaluate the extent of the haemorrhoids.
Can any doctor treat piles, or should I see a haemorrhoids (piles) specialist?
While general practitioners can provide initial assessment and management, seeing a haemorrhoids (piles) doctor ensures expertise in diagnosing and treating haemorrhoids, especially in complex cases.
What questions should I ask a haemorrhoids (piles) doctor during a consultation?
Ask the haemorrhoids (piles) doctor about treatment options, risks and benefits, expected outcomes, recovery time, and any concerns about the procedure.
What is the success rate of haemorrhoids (piles) removal procedures?
Success rates vary depending on the haemorrhoids (piles) removal method. In Singapore, surgical treatments like haemorrhoidectomy have high success rates for eliminating haemorrhoids, mainly when performed by experienced surgeons.
How can I choose the right clinic for haemorrhoids (piles) treatment?
Look for clinics with experienced haemorrhoids (piles) specialists, positive patient reviews, accreditation, and complete facilities for diagnosis and treatment in Singapore.
What privacy measures do haemorrhoids (piles) clinics have in place?
Haemorrhoids (Piles) clinics prioritise patient confidentiality with private consultation rooms and procedures to ensure discretion and comfort during examinations and treatments.
About Dr QM Leong
Colorectal & Hernia Surgeon in Singapore
Dr Leong is a general and colorectal surgeon in Singapore who graduated from the University of London in 2000. He obtained his membership to the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh in 2003 and started working in Tan Tock Seng Hospital in 2003. He started his Advanced Specialist Training in 2005 and passed his fellowship exams in 2008. Dr Leong was awarded the prestigious MOH HMDP scholarship to train under Prof Kim Seon Hahn in Korea University for Laparoscopic and Robotic colorectal surgery in 2010.
Dr Leong is amongst a handful of hernia and colorectal surgeons in Singapore who practice Single Incision Laparoscopic surgery. This is a technical and complex procedure that is minimally invasive, speeds up recovery, and confers excellent cosmetic results. Dr Leong also routinely trains basic and advanced specialist trainees in laparoscopic surgery, and regularly proctors consultant surgeons in complex colorectal cases.
Beyond laparoscopic surgery, Dr Leong also performs a repertoire of minimally invasive General Surgery procedures. He is also an experienced endoscopist with more than 10000 procedures, performing diagnostic and therapeutic scopes for elective and emergency surgical conditions. He performs direct access colonoscopies and oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopy for patients and will strive to perform the procedures on the same day if possible for patients’ convenience.
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Our surgery is on the panel of most of the major insurance companies and if you are covered by corporate insurance, you may be entitled to a cashless visit to our clinic.
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