How do doctors determine when surgery for haemorrhoids is necessary?

Doctor's Answers 1

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Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

In general, surgery is recommended for cases not responding to other non-surgical treatment methods such as oral medication, local therapy or band ligation.

In cases with advanced grade or severe disturbing symptoms including recurrent bleeding, constant pain or discomfort due to thromobosis, surgery may be advised as a more definitive treatment method.

Just as an aside, rubber band ligation is not suitable for all cases. External piles should not be treated with band ligation due to the rich nerve supply around the anal skin. Doing so can be too painful for anyone to bear. Such cases should consider the surgical approach if treatment is required.

- Dr Quan

Similar Questions

Could persistent burping and belching pose a serious health risk?

Belching or burping is a normal body response to get rid of excessive gaseous material in the upper digestive tract. This works somewhat similar to the pressure-relief-valve found on pressure cookers to let go of excessive pressure build-up. In general, belching helps to reduce discomfort from gaseous distension. However, if this happens too frequently, it can result in disturbing symptoms such as heartburn, chest pain, painful or difficult swallowing, complications from acid burns might have developed in your oesophagus.

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan

Answered By

Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

When should I see a doctor regarding rectum bleeding if I’m worried about colon cancer?

If you truly have reasons to worry about having colon cancer, please do not delay any longer. It is a well-known fact that survival is best when colon cancers are detected early. If you are 50yr and above or having a significant family history of colon cancer or you have a past history of colon polyps, you automatically fall into a higher risk group for having colon cancer. So many have made the mistake of assuming a benign cause of bleeding just because one has a past history of haemorrhoids. Such assumptions may result in unnecessary delay in making the right diagnosis.

Photo of Dr Wai Leong Quan

Answered By

Dr Wai Leong Quan

Gastroenterologist

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