5 Signs To Look Out For: When to Seek Medical Help for Piles

Piles, also known as haemorrhoids, are swollen veins in the lower rectum and anus, which can cause significant discomfort. Although common and often manageable with home treatments, there are certain signs that indicate the need for medical intervention. This article explores five critical signs that suggest you should seek medical help for piles.

1. Persistent Pain and Discomfort

Piles can cause pain, itching, and discomfort around the anal area. If these symptoms persist despite home treatments like over-the-counter creams, sitz baths, and dietary changes, it’s time to consult a healthcare provider. Persistent pain can indicate a more severe condition or complications such as a thrombosed haemorrhoid, where a blood clot forms within the haemorrhoid.

2. Bleeding During Bowel Movements

While occasional bleeding with piles is not uncommon, consistent or heavy bleeding during bowel movements is a red flag. If you notice bright red blood on toilet paper, in the toilet bowl, or mixed with your stool, you should seek medical advice. Excessive bleeding can lead to anaemia and might also be a sign of more serious gastrointestinal conditions like colon cancer in Singapore. Gastroenterology clinics in Singapore can provide diagnostic services, such as a colonoscopy, to determine the underlying cause of bleeding.

3. Incomplete Bowel Movements

A sensation of incomplete bowel movements, or tenesmus, can be distressing and uncomfortable. This feeling may indicate that your piles are significantly enlarged or that there is an underlying condition affecting your bowel function. A specialist in gastroenterology in Singapore can help diagnose and treat the cause, ensuring you get relief and preventing further complications.

4. Prolapsed Haemorrhoids

Haemorrhoids that prolapse, or protrude outside the anal opening, require medical attention, especially if they cannot be pushed back inside. Prolapsed haemorrhoids can cause severe pain, irritation, and hygiene issues. They may also lead to complications such as strangulation, where the blood supply to the haemorrhoid is cut off, necessitating immediate medical intervention.

5. Changes in Bowel Habits and Stool Appearance

Sudden changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea, and noticeable changes in the colour, consistency, or shape of your stool can indicate underlying issues. While these symptoms can be associated with piles, they can also be signs of other gastrointestinal disorders, including colon cancer. Consulting a colonoscopy specialist in Singapore can help identify the cause of these changes and provide appropriate treatment.

When to See a Doctor

If you experience any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to seek medical advice. Gastroenterologists in Singapore can offer various diagnostic tools, including endoscopy and colonoscopy, to determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend the best course of treatment.

Treatment Options for Piles

Treatment for piles depends on the severity and type of haemorrhoids. Options include:

• Lifestyle Changes: Increasing fibre intake, staying hydrated, and regular exercise can help prevent and manage piles.
• Medications: Over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories can provide relief.
• Non-Surgical Procedures: Rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, and infrared coagulation are minimally invasive options.
• Surgical Options: In severe cases, a haemorrhoidectomy or stapled hemorrhoidopexy might be necessary.

Conclusion

Piles are a common yet often painful condition that can significantly impact quality of life. Recognising the signs that warrant medical attention is crucial in managing this condition effectively. Persistent pain, bleeding, incomplete bowel movements, prolapsed haemorrhoids, and changes in bowel habits or stool appearance should prompt a visit to a healthcare provider.

For comprehensive care and expert advice, consider consulting with the specialists at GUTCARE.

Reference(s):

https://www.medstarhealth.org/blog/5-signs-its-time-to-seek-care-for-hemorrhoids

https://www.everydayhealth.com/digestive-health/signs-to-see-a-doctor-for-hemorrhoids/

https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/haemorrhoids-piles