Unbeknownst to the general people, a lot of Singaporeans suffer from piles. At least one out of three people have the condition though the symptoms may not be obvious.
So, to help Singaporeans gain a better understanding of what piles is and where to find the right piles treatment, we'll be discussing the condition today!
What is Piles?
Haemorrhoids, commonly known as piles, are collections of inflamed tissues found in the anal canal. They often come in a range of sizes and may be internal or external.
Internal piles are normally found between two to four centimetres above the opening of the patient's anus. On the other hand, external piles are often found outside the edge of the patient's anus.
Among the two kinds of haemorrhoids, internal piles are the most common condition.
What Causes Piles?
Commonly caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum, piles happen when the blood vessels around the anus and within the rectum stretch.
This may result in swelling or bulging causing piles. The increased pressure may be caused by other illnesses like chronic constipation or chronic diarrhoea.
In other cases, pregnancy and regular heavy weight lifting could contribute to the formation of piles. Additionally, genetics and age could also increase the risks of haemorrhoids.
What Are Its Symptoms?
Patients that have felt a hard and painful lump around their anus could be suffering from piles. Other experiences a patient could feel if they have haemorrhoids are itchiness around the anus, bleeding after a bowel movement and pain during the movement.
In most cases, piles are not serious. They sometimes even heal on their own. But if left untreated, it can develop into a more severe condition.
Patients that are experiencing excessive anal bleeding, infection, and faecal incontinence should consult their doctors immediately.
What Are Classes of Piles?
Because of the wide range of sizes and conditions that haemorrhoids come in, they are classified into four grades.
The first grade is small inflammations that aren't visible and are usually found inside the lining of the anus. Second-grade piles are larger than Grade I piles but are still found inside the anus. Third-grade piles, on the other hand, appear outside the anus. It may be felt hanging from the rectum but can be easily inserted. Lastly, fourth-grade piles are large and would need piles treatment.
External piles that develop blood clots require immediate piles treatment.
How Can It Be Diagnosed?
Doctors can generally diagnose haemorrhoids through physical examinations. Any patient that has suspected piles will be assessed physically.
As for the case of internal piles, doctors may suggest performing a digital rectal examination or DRE using a proctoscope. Another possible way of detecting piles is by taking a small tissue sample for assessment from the rectum.
A colonoscopy procedure is also possible if a patient shows other symptoms that may signal another digestive system disease. The examination can also be performed if a doctor deems a patient showing signs of colorectal cancer.
Can It Be Treated?
Thanks to modern science, there are now a plethora of ways to treat haemorrhoids. Depending on the severity of the condition, piles will heal on their own. Patients can ask for treatments to reduce discomfort and itching.
There are also OTC medications that can be used to make piles manageable. And in severe cases, surgery is the best piles treatment.
Research has revealed that one out of 10 haemorrhoids patients may need surgery for their condition.
Can It Be Prevented?
Physicians will recommend lifestyle changes to prevent piles.
Some doctors will say that a change of diet is needed to avoid straining during bowel movements. To ensure that stools are kept soft, patients should incorporate more fibre into their diet as well as fruits and vegetables.
Eating bran-based breakfast cereals and increased water consumption can also help. Physicians will also advise that patients lessen their caffeine intake for proper prevention.
Another factor that can help prevent piles is maintaining proper body weight. Patients should exercise regularly with routines that are not strenuous.
Key Takeaways
Piles can be daunting for those not familiar with the condition. But as we've mentioned earlier, haemorrhoids can heal on their own if detected earlier.
They don't usually pose any serious threat to our health. But those who want the reassurance of an expert should visit their physician.
There are several piles treatment available in Singapore's market. Anyone who suspects they may be suffering from a severe condition of piles can visit a colorectal clinic in Singapore.
Clinics like Dr QM Leong have a team of experienced doctors and physicians by their side. They can help patients assess their condition and guide them to the right treatment.
Piles treatment can range from non-invasive to invasive procedures like surgery depending on the severity of the situation. But generally speaking, piles can be treated when detected early.
To learn more about how a colorectal clinic in Singapore can help you with piles treatment, visit Dr QM Leong's website.
