What can be done in treatment for piles?
Piles or haemorrhoids are swellings which contain swollen blood vessels that can cause discomfort in and around the anus and rectum. There are two kinds of treatment options available to patients who may be suffering from piles. There are many home treatments available to people who may be suffering for the symptoms that coincide with piles, while advanced options remain for conditions which persist.
Diet
A change of diet is often the first step in the treatment of piles. Patients will need aim to include more fibre in their diet, consuming between 25-30g per day. Consuming more fibre will help to keep stools soft and help the patient to avoid straining the haemorrhoids. You should aim to include plenty of wholegrain, cereals, fruit, vegetables and pulses in their diet, along with drinking plenty of water.
On the Toilet
Taking care on the toilet will also help your piles to clear up. You need to keep the area around the anus clean so patting your bottom with damp toilet paper or baby wipes will help you reduce any discomfort. Try to avoid rubbing and straining to pass stools.
Over the Counter Creams and Suppositories
There are a number of over the counter creams and suppositories you can ask your pharmacist about. They will usually be be used to reduce inflammation and swelling around the anus and can be used for a period of no more than 5-10 days. These should be taken in conjunction with a balanced diet and the toilet practices suggested above.
You should never use more than one treatment at a time and always consult your pharmacist before trying a treatment.
Painkillers
Painkillers can be used in cases where your haemorrhoids are causing severe pain. You will need to take care not to use them for more than a few days, as they may cause the area around your back passage to become more sensitive.
Laxatives
Laxatives may be prescribed by your doctor to soften your stools or make them heavier. Bulk forming laxatives contain fibre and will make your stools heavier and softer, whilst osmotic laxatives will increase the amount of water in your bowels to make the stools softer.
Banding
In severe cases, your doctor may prescribe a procedure known as banding in the treatment for piles. During banding, a very small tight elastic band will be places around the haemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply. The piles will then fall off in a week or so.
Sclerotherapy
Your doctor may also prescribe sclerotherapy where a chemical solution is injected into the blood vessels of the back passage. The injection will cause it to numb and harden the haemorrhoid causing it to shrink and shrivel up.
Infrared Coagulation
During this procedure the haemorrhoid will be burnt away using an infra red light device. One or two bursts of infra red light can cut of the haemorrhoids blood supply.
Surgery
In extreme cases surgery may be prescribed to remove haemorrhoids. The large intestinal piles will be removed under local anaesthetic. As this is classed as a major operation, the patient will need a recovery period of up to a week.
