The lower rectum and anus contain enlarged vascular tissue called haemorrhoids or piles. You have this opening at the end of your large intestine that allows stool to leave your body. It is common for everyone to have piles. As long as they don’t swell, they won’t hurt or cause any other problems. The swelling of your piles causes itching and pain around that area, creating discomfort during bowel movements. Consider the following guidelines before undergoing surgery:-
- Dietary restrictions are recommended the day before surgery. Gradually increase your dietary intake. It is common to experience constipation when consuming pain medication containing narcotics. The first bowel movement seems to occur about three days post-surgery for most patients. Often this is painful. It is recommended that while using narcotics, you continue to use a stool softener like Colace or Docusate. Taking Citrucel or Metamucil daily can also help. Taking 30 ml of milk of magnesia twice a day can help with severe constipation.
- After haemorrhoid surgery, pain is expected. Medications such as narcotics should be taken as prescribed. Make sure you take your pain medications on time. If you are not sensitive to anti‐inflammatory medicines and have no history of ulcers, ibuprofen is an effective alternative to narcotics.
- After haemorrhoid surgery, it is common to have slight rectal bleeding or drainage. If there is any discharge, wipe it with a sanitary napkin. If the bleeding is heavy or you suffer from fever or chills, you should consult your doctor immediately.
- Nausea is another common post-op complaint caused by narcotic pain medications, general anaesthesia, and severe constipation. Reduce the use of narcotics as soon as possible.
- The problem of urinary retention following haemorrhoid surgery is common. If you have trouble urinating within 8 hours post-surgery or if you feel uncomfortable, talk to your doctor.
- Many people find it relaxing to take regular tub baths or warm showers. After your bowel movements, you may feel relaxing washing in a tub of warm water. Skip the use of soap to avoid rectal irritation.
- Avoid strenuous activities like running, swimming or lifting weights for a few weeks after surgery.
- You can drive again once recovered completely, i.e., when you can turn or twist your body smoothly and comfortably.
- Be careful not to strain when passing stools. If you experience constipation or trouble passing your stools, let the doctor know so that they suggest stool softeners.
- Don’t miss out on postoperative visits after surgery. It is the only way to evaluate your recovery process.
- In most cases, people return to work after the third week following piles surgery based on their comfort levels. However, it may take about a month for people to recover from piles surgery fully.
What can be done to prevent piles from occurring again?
Pain is common after having haemorrhoid surgery. To alleviate the pain, your doctor may prescribe painkillers.
Here are a few things that will help you with your recovery:
- Consuming high-fibre foods
- Water is essential for staying hydrated, so drink at least 8-10 glasses per day
- Take stool softener so that your bowel movements won’t be as stressful
- Avoid lifting and pulling heavy objects.
Generally, it takes most people between 10 and 14 days to fully recover after surgery. Complications are rare, but please seek medical help if you have a fever, can’t urinate, have pain with urination, or feel dizzy.
You’ll probably hear these recommendations from your doctor when you follow up:
- Changes in your diet include eating fibre-rich foods, fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc.
- Lifestyle changes like maintaining a healthy weight
- Regular exercise programs
As a result of these adjustments, haemorrhoids will be less likely to recur. To know more about piles treatment, consult Dr Venugopal Pareek, Laparoscopic & Bariatric Surgeon in Hyderabad. Call +91 91-777-77715 to book an appointment.
