Patients undergoing surgery for piles or haemorrhoids are typically discharged from the hospital within one to two days, as the procedure is commonly performed in a day surgery centre. After one to two weeks post-surgery, you can gradually resume your normal activities, but it is advisable to avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting during this time. To ensure a smooth healing process and prevent pain or bleeding while passing stools, your doctor may recommend taking stool softeners. Here are some recovery tips:
Maintain soft stools: The best way to prevent piles is by keeping your stools soft, which can be achieved through a fibre-rich diet. Increase your intake of whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. This helps soften and bulk up the stool, reducing the need for straining during bowel movements. To avoid gas-related issues, gradually incorporate more fibre into your diet.
Stay hydrated: Drinking an ample amount of water is essential to maintain soft stools. Aim to consume six to eight glasses of water per day, in addition to other fluids, and avoid alcohol.
Consider fibre supplements: Many people fail to meet the recommended daily intake of 20 to 30 grams of fibre through their regular diet. Over-the-counter fibre supplements like psyllium (Metamucil) or methylcellulose (Citrucel) have been shown to alleviate symptoms of piles and reduce bleeding.
Take it easy: When passing stools, avoid excessive straining by not holding your breath and trying to pass them gently. This reduces the strain on the veins in the lower rectum.
Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help prevent constipation and alleviate the pressure on veins caused by prolonged sitting or standing. Exercise also contributes to weight loss, which can aid in the treatment of piles.
Limit prolonged sitting: Extended periods of sitting, particularly on the toilet, can increase strain on the anal veins. Try to minimise your sitting time and take breaks to relieve pressure.
Use appropriate medications: For mild pain associated with piles, your doctor may recommend over-the-counter lotions, ointments, or suppositories. These may contain ingredients such as witch hazel, hydrocortisone, or lidocaine, which provide temporary relief from pain and irritation. Avoid using over-the-counter steroid creams for more than a week unless specifically instructed by your doctor.