Many people mistakenly believe that minor cases of piles can be left alone without causing problems. In reality, while some mild cases may resolve with simple home remedies, persistent or severe piles should not be ignored.
If you experience ongoing pain, bleeding during bowel movements, or discomfort that interferes with your daily life, it is best to seek professional advice. If you’re already thinking about surgery for your piles treatment in Singapore, please check this guide: https://alpinesurgical.sg/things-know-before-preparing-piles-surgery/.
Now, when it comes to piles treatment in Singapore, initially if you notice occasional discomfort, adjusting your diet and incorporating lifestyle changes may just be enough. However, if the condition worsens or symptoms like rectal bleeding persist, you should consult a doctor immediately.
A timely treatment will not only help relieve the pain. It can also be all you need to significantly minimize the risk of complications that could lead to more invasive procedures later on.
What is the Best Treatment for Piles?
One of the questions we get almost all the time is; what is the best treatment for piles? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to treating piles.
The best treatment depends largely on the severity of the condition and individual patient needs. Many people start with non-invasive methods and progress to more advanced treatments if necessary.
In Singapore, the treatment options for piles range from conservative measures to surgical interventions. Each treatment is designed to effectively manage the pain that comes with piles, reduce inflammation, and improve overall rectal health. Below are a roundup of the most effective treatment modalities for piles.
· Conservative Treatments
Conservative treatment is often the first step for managing mild to moderate piles. This method typically includes lifestyle changes like adopting a high-fiber diet to soften stools and prevent straining during bowel movements.
Regular exercise and proper hydration are also crucial in easing symptoms. What’s more, over-the-counter treatments like topical creams and sitz baths can help reduce discomfort and inflammation.
· Minimally Invasive Procedures
If your condition doesn’t respond to conservative measures, you may be recommended minimally invasive procedures. Techniques like rubber band ligation work by placing a small band around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply.
Sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution into the hemorrhoidal tissue, leading to shrinkage and eventual absorption by the body. Infrared coagulation uses heat to reduce the size of the piles without significant tissue damage.
· Surgical Treatments
When piles are severe or persistent, surgical treatment may be necessary. A hemorrhoidectomy, which involves the removal of the swollen tissue, is one of the most common surgical options for piles treatment in Singapore.
Alternatively, stapled haemorrhoidopexy is a procedure that repositions the hemorrhoidal tissue back to its natural position while cutting off its blood supply. Surgery may be recommended when other treatments have failed or when complications like thrombosis or significant bleeding occur.
Which Type of Doctor is Best for Piles?
Choosing the right specialist for piles treatment is crucial for successful outcomes. With various options available in Singapore, you will want to understand which type of doctor is best suited to address your condition. Here are some of the doctors you should see for piles treatment in Singapore;
- Gastroenterologist: A gastroenterologist specializes in the digestive system and its disorders. They have extensive training in diagnosing and managing conditions like piles, and other gastrointestinal issues. A gastroenterologist can provide a comprehensive assessment of your digestive health to ensure that any symptoms are not indicative of more serious underlying conditions.
- Colorectal Surgeon: A colorectal surgeon is a specialist who deals specifically with diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus. They are highly experienced in both non-surgical and surgical treatments for piles. If your condition is severe or if you have complications that require surgical intervention, a colorectal surgeon is your best option.
- General Surgeon with a Specialization in Proctology: Some general surgeons develop a specialization in proctology and focus on disorders of the anorectal area. This includes piles. These professionals combine broad surgical skills with specialized knowledge of the rectal region and are capable of managing a range of treatments, from conservative procedures to more invasive surgeries. A general surgeon with proctology expertise can offer personalized treatment options based on the severity and progression of your condition.
How Long Does It Take for Piles to Improve with Treatment?
The duration of recovery from piles treatment in Singapore varies considerably based on the treatment approach and the severity of the condition. Conservative treatments like dietary modifications and topical treatments, can show improvement within a few days to several weeks.
Many patients notice a reduction in discomfort and bleeding within this time frame if they adhere closely to their treatment plan. However, these methods require consistent effort and lifestyle adjustments to maintain long-term benefits.
For minimally invasive procedures, the initial recovery period may be shorter, typically within one to two weeks. These treatments tend to offer faster symptom relief compared to conservative measures due to their targeted approach.
However, it may take several weeks for the full benefits of procedures like rubber band ligation or sclerotherapy to become apparent. You will be advised to avoid strenuous activities and to follow post-procedure care instructions meticulously to encourage healing.
In cases where surgery is required, the recovery timeline may extend to several weeks. Surgical procedures, like a hemorrhoidectomy, for example often involves a longer healing process due to the removal of tissue and the complexity of the procedure.
Postoperative pain and a higher degree of discomfort are common. So, you may need to take time off from work or regular activities.
However, once the recovery phase is complete, the results tend to be more definitive. In fact, many patients enjoy the reduced likelihood of recurrence if proper care is maintained.
Follow-up appointments with your doctor will help track your progress and ensure that any complications are promptly addressed. Regardless of the treatment chosen, the most important thing is to religiously adhere to post-treatment advice and also maintain a healthy lifestyle.
It is a Wrap!
Piles treatment in Singapore requires proper medical attention and the expertise of the right specialist. The best treatment options vary from conservative methods to surgical procedures. Importantly, the type of doctor you see makes a significant difference in managing the condition.
Aim for a timely consultation to prevent complications and to encourage a lasting relief. If you are experiencing discomfort or persistent symptoms of piles, do not delay seeking professional help.
If you’re in Singapore, please contact our specialized proctology clinic today for a thorough assessment and personalized treatment plan. Call or visit us at;
Alpine Surgical Practice – Dr Aaron Poh | Colonoscopy | Gallstones Removal Singapore
3 Mount Elizabeth, #14-06 Medical Centre,
Singapore 228510
+65 6322 7323
