Treating Piles and Fissures with Dr. Sunny Agarwal

Q: Dr. Agarwal, many people suffer silently from piles and fissures. Why do these conditions occur, and what are the common symptoms?

Dr. Agarwal: Piles, or hemorrhoids, are swollen veins around the anus, often caused by increased pressure during bowel movements, pregnancy, or heavy lifting. Fissures are small tears in the lining of the anus, typically resulting from constipation or straining. Common symptoms include pain, itching, bleeding, and difficulty with bowel movements.

Q: What treatment options are available for piles and fissures?

Dr. Agarwal: The best treatment depends on the severity of the condition. For mild cases, lifestyle changes like increasing fiber intake, staying hydrated, and avoiding straining can be helpful. For more severe cases, minimally invasive procedures like rubber band ligation, sclerotherapy, or laser therapy offer effective solutions. Surgery might be necessary for very advanced cases of piles.

Q: Are there any myths or misconceptions surrounding piles and fissures that you’d like to clarify?

Dr. Agarwal: A common misconception is that these conditions are embarrassing or shameful to discuss. This can lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment, worsening symptoms and delaying relief. Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for effective management.

Q: What advice would you give to someone experiencing symptoms of piles or fissures?

Dr. Agarwal: Don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. Early diagnosis and intervention are key to effective treatment and faster recovery. Remember, these conditions are common and treatable, and there’s no shame in seeking help.

Bonus Q: Can you share your thoughts on the latest advancements in piles and fissure treatment?

Dr. Agarwal: Minimally invasive procedures like laser therapy are becoming increasingly popular due to their shorter recovery times and reduced discomfort. Ongoing research continues to explore new methods for pain management and tissue regeneration, offering promising prospects for further advancements in the future.

How does laser treatment work?

Imagine a tiny laser fiber inserted through a pinprick incision near the affected area. This laser targets the hemorrhoid tissue, emitting heat that gently seals the vein from within. Over time, the treated tissue shrinks and reabsorbs into the body, gradually resolving the hemorrhoid.

Benefits of laser treatment:

• Minimally invasive: No large cuts or stitches are required, minimizing discomfort and recovery time.
• Outpatient procedure: You can usually go home the same day as the treatment.
• Faster recovery: Compared to traditional surgery, you can resume most activities within a few days.
• Less pain: Laser therapy generally involves less pain than conventional surgery.
• Fewer complications: The risk of bleeding and infection is lower with laser treatment.

Is laser treatment right for everyone?

While laser therapy offers numerous advantages, it might not be suitable for everyone. Consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is crucial to determine if laser treatment is the best option for your specific case.

Q: I’m considering piles surgery, but I’m worried about losing bowel control. Is this a common risk?

Dr. Agarwal: Fortunately, loss of bowel control is a very rare complication of piles surgery. In my extensive experience, the risk is less than 1%. Luckily I have never faced this problem.

Q: What are the most common risks associated with piles surgery?

Dr. Agarwal: While rare, some potential risks associated with piles surgery include:

• Pain and discomfort: This is typically mild and manageable with medication.
• Bleeding: Minor bleeding is common after surgery but usually subsides quickly.
• Infection: This is also uncommon but can be treated with antibiotics.
• Urinary retention: Difficulty passing urine sometimes occurs temporarily after surgery due to swelling or irritation.

Q: Can you tell me more about the different types of piles surgery and their risks?

Dr. Agarwal: Certainly. The type of surgery recommended depends on the severity of your piles and your individual circumstances. Here are some common procedures and their associated risks:

• Rubber band ligation: This minimally invasive procedure involves placing small rubber bands around the base of the hemorrhoid to cut off its blood supply, causing it to shrink and fall off. There is minimal risk of bowel control issues with this technique.
• Sclerotherapy: This involves injecting a solution into the hemorrhoid to shrink it. While safe, there’s a slightly higher risk of minor bleeding or tissue damage compared to rubber band ligation.
• Hemorrhoidectomy: This more traditional surgery involves surgically removing the hemorrhoid tissue. While effective, it carries a slightly higher risk of pain, bleeding, and infection compared to minimally invasive options. Bowel control issues are still very rare with this procedure.

Q: What can I do to minimize the risk of complications after piles surgery?

Dr. Agarwal: Following your doctor’s instructions carefully is crucial. This includes:

• Taking any prescribed medications as directed.
• Keeping the surgical site clean and dry.
• Avoiding strenuous activity for a few days.
• Eating a high-fiber diet to ensure regular bowel movements.
• Drinking plenty of fluids.

Q: If I experience any worrying symptoms after piles surgery, what should I do?

Dr. Agarwal: Don’t hesitate to contact your healthcare provider immediately. It’s important to address any concerns promptly to ensure proper management and prevent complications.

Remember, experiencing piles or undergoing surgery for them can be anxiety-provoking. Open communication with your doctor and following their guidance are key to a successful recovery and minimizing any potential risks.

Please note: This Q&A is for informational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment of piles and fissures.

For more information, contact Dr. Sunny Agarwal

Enquiry: (+91) 77009 77180

Consultation at Global Piles Clinic, Chembur

Attached to Apollo, Global, Criticare Asia

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