What is Piles?

Introduction

Do you feel pain or discomfort while you’re sitting down or when you’re having a bowel movement? Does blood appear on the toilet paper or in the toilet bowl? Is there swelling or itching in your anal region? If you experience any of these symptoms, you should talk to a medical professional as these are the indicators of piles (also referred to as hemorrhoids), a disease brought on by enlarged veins in the lower abdomen and anus. It must be noted that significant discomfort and tissue growth in and around the anus may result from piles.

This article will provide you with all the relevant information you need to have about piles, their causes, and diagnosis procedures and help you explore the best surgical treatment options suitable for you.

What Factors and Conditions can lead to piles?

Hemorrhoids are mostly caused by excessive strain on the anal veins. Some important contributory factors to piles include-

• Straining during bowel motions: Straining excessively during bowel movements may put unnecessary pressure on the anal veins and lead to piles.
• Constipation: Characterized by hard, dry stools and infrequent bowel motions, constipation exerts prolonged pressure in the anal region resulting in the formation of piles.
• Heavy Lifting:  A lot of pressure is exerted on the abdomen while lifting heavy weights. This pressure can be transferred to the veins in the anal and pelvic region, and contribute to the development of piles.
• Diarrhea: This medical condition involves frequent bowel movements, with loose or watery stools, which could aggravate the anal region and exacerbate vein swelling resulting in piles.

Diagnostic Procedures Prior To Piles Surgery

• Medical History Analysis: The physician will inquire about your symptoms, past medical conditions, and any potential risk factors (such as dietary or bowel habits) for diagnosing hemorrhoids.
• Physical Examination: A visual examination of the anal area may be conducted to look for any anomalies or external hemorrhoids
• Digital Rectal Exam: The doctor may put a gloved finger within the rectum to check for internal hemorrhoids or other problems.
• Anoscopy or Proctoscopy: In some cases, a tiny light-filled tube called an anoscope or proctoscope may be inserted to look more carefully at the rectum and lower intestine.
• Extra Tests: To rule out any gastrointestinal problems, the doctor may advise additional testing, such as a colonoscopy, if there are indications of other disorders. 

Types of Surgical Treatments For Piles

Hemorrhoid surgeries can be classified as more complicated inpatient surgeries or as easier, less invasive, outpatient treatments that don’t require anesthesia. Some of these include-

• Banding

– In an office environment, banding can be used to treat internal hemorrhoids up to Grade 3. This operation, also known as rubber band ligation, entails severing the hemorrhoid’s blood supply by wrapping a tight band around its base.

– Usually, banding requires two or more procedures spaced apart by roughly two months. 

– Although it’s not painful, you might feel pressure or some slight discomfort.

– Those using blood thinners should avoid banding because of the increased risk of bleeding problems. 

• Sclerotherapy

– Under normal circumstances, internal hemorrhoids up to Grade 2 can be treated with this technique. 

– During this procedure, an injection of a drug is inserted into the piles. The medication stops the bleeding by shrinking the hemorrhoids. 

– Most patients who receive the shot feel little to no pain at all.

– Sclerotherapy is administered in the surgeon’s office and is generally regarded as the most effective treatment for minor internal hemorrhoids.

• Coagulation treatment

– Another name for coagulation therapy is infrared photocoagulation. Internal hemorrhoids in Grades 1-3 are treated with this procedure. 

– The hemorrhoid retracts and shrinks when exposed to infrared light, heat, or extremely cold temperatures.

• Hemorrhoidal Artery Ligation (HAL)

– Transanal hemorrhoidal dearterialization (THD), also known as hemorrhoidal artery ligation (HAL), is an additional technique for the removal of Grades 2 or 3 hemorrhoids. 

– This procedure locates the blood vessels producing the hemorrhoid using an ultrasound and ligates, and seals off those blood vessels.

– It has been observed that this approach may be just as successful as the conventional, more invasive hemorrhoidectomy technique, with less pain following surgery.

• Hemorrhoidectomy

– Hemorrhoids in Grades 3-4 that are not responding to nonsurgical care, big external hemorrhoids, prolapsed internal hemorrhoids, or any combination of these are treated with a hemorrhoidectomy.

– The ideal anesthetic to employ during the procedure will be decided by your surgeon depending on your condition.

• Hemorrhoidopexy

– Also referred to as the “stapling” method, this technique usually involves general, regional, or local anesthetic and is performed as a same-day surgery in a hospital.

– Staples are used to treat prolapsed hemorrhoids, which can be grades 3–4. 

– A surgical staple restores the prolapsed hemorrhoid’s original position within your rectum.

Steps to Prepare For Piles Treatment 

• Discuss your symptoms, medical history, and therapy choices with your surgeon 
• Observe any particular guidelines your surgeon may have given you about changing your drug regimen, such as quitting certain vitamins or blood thinners.
• Consider a low-fiber diet a few days before surgery in order to help minimize bowel motions.
• Drink plenty of water and, if suggested, have a small meal the previous evening.
• A bowel prep, which involves clearing the bowels with an enema or laxative before surgery, may be advised by your surgeon.
• Make plans for someone to drive you home following the surgery as anesthetic will be needed.

When is the Right Time To See A Doctor For Piles?

• If you’re in a lot of discomfort and over-the-counter remedies aren’t helping.
• If you notice bright red blood in your stool, on toilet paper, or in the toilet bowl. Even though hemorrhoids can result in bleeding, it’s crucial to rule out other medical issues.
• If symptoms like itching, swelling, or discomfort last longer than a few days or intensify over time.
• If you notice a change in your bowel movements or if using home remedies for constipation or diarrhea doesn’t help.
• If your hemorrhoids grow to be enormous or if they protrude from the anus.
• If you have a fever, chills, or significant swelling, the symptoms are indicative of an infection.

How can mediEND Help You?

mediEND can provide assistance in your piles surgical treatment by offering-

• Most cutting-edge surgical procedures at affordable prices. 
• A dedicated group of highly experienced doctors and surgeons.
• Easy payment options including low-cost EMIs.

By utilizing these services for your Piles Treatment, you can forget about your concerns and focus on your health.

Is Piles Treatment Covered Under Health Insurance?

• Depending on your particular plan and provider, your health insurance may or may not cover the treatment of piles (hemorrhoids). Treatments for hemorrhoids are typically covered by many health insurance policies, particularly if they are considered medically essential. This can involve medical consultations, prescription drugs, and surgery.
• To find out the specifics of your coverage, any potential out-of-pocket expenses, and whether a referral from a primary care physician is required, it is best to speak with your insurance carrier directly.

Advantages of Piles Surgery

• Pain Relief: A successful course of treatment can reduce the pain and suffering brought on by piles, enhancing your general well-being.
• Better Daily Function: The absence of pain or irritability makes it easier to participate in everyday activities when symptoms are relieved.
• Prevention of Complications: If hemorrhoids are not treated, treatment may be able to avert more serious issues such blood clots or infections.
• Reduced Bleeding: Piles frequently cause rectal bleeding, which can be stopped with therapy, reducing worry and anxiety.
• Improved Bowel Habits: Dietary and lifestyle adjustments are frequently part of treatment, and they can result in improved bowel habits that lower the chance of recurrence.

Conclusion

To sum up, treating piles is crucial for reducing pain, averting problems, and enhancing general quality of life. Taking care of hemorrhoids, whether by medication, surgery, or lifestyle modifications, can have major positive effects on one’s physical and mental health. Effective symptom management, decreased recurrence risk, and improved day-to-day functioning can all be achieved with early diagnosis and proper treatment. Consulting a healthcare professional can help you determine the best treatment approach for your needs if you are suffering from piles symptoms.

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