Understanding Piles and Their Treatment Options – Insights from Dr. Suprashant Kulkarni

Dr. Suprashant Kulkarni, General, Laparoscopic, and Robotic Surgeon at Lokmanya Group of Hospitals, emphasizes that when patients approach with any issue related to the anal area, the first step is to determine the exact problem. In India, most people tend to label every anal discomfort as piles. However, it is essential to diagnose whether it's actually piles, fissure, fistula, abscess, polyp, cancer, or colitis before beginning any treatment.

Diagnosis Is the First Step Toward Treatment

To identify the correct condition, doctors perform a clinical check-up, endoscopy, or some tests. Only after confirming that the issue is truly piles—where the blood vessels in the anal region are enlarged—can appropriate treatment begin. This diagnostic step is critical because the symptoms of piles may overlap with other more serious conditions.

Majority of Piles Cases Don’t Require Surgery

Once piles are confirmed, Dr. Kulkarni states that around 95% of patients do not need surgery. Instead, lifestyle modifications are the primary line of treatment. Patients are advised to increase fiber intake, exercise regularly, and make dietary improvements. These changes help in softening stool and reducing strain during bowel movements, which in turn helps in controlling piles symptoms.

Medication for Symptom Management

Along with lifestyle changes, patients are prescribed medications to reduce the size of piles, stop bleeding, ease bowel movements, reduce pain, and control infection. These medications form an effective non-surgical route of treatment. Most patients find relief with this combined approach of lifestyle management and medicines.

When Is Surgery Needed?

Surgery becomes necessary only in severe or non-responsive cases. If patients continue to experience major symptoms like persistent pain or bleeding despite medication and lifestyle changes, further evaluation is done. Dr. Kulkarni mentions that conditions like Grade 4 piles, where the swollen veins cannot shrink on their own, may require surgical intervention or other forms of advanced treatment.

Patient Involvement and Awareness

Dr. Kulkarni encourages patients to be involved in their own care. If symptoms persist or patients are unsure about their diagnosis, they are invited to ask questions. He assures that either he or his colleagues are always available to respond to queries posted in the comment section of the video. This open communication builds trust and promotes better patient outcomes.

Conclusion

Proper diagnosis, lifestyle changes, and appropriate medication can treat most cases of piles without surgery. Only a small percentage of patients with severe symptoms require surgical treatment. Dr. Kulkarni and his team at Lokmanya Group of Hospitals are committed to guiding patients through this process with accurate diagnosis and informed care.

FAQs

1. What is the first step in treating piles?
The first step is proper diagnosis to confirm if it's piles or another condition like fissure, fistula, or cancer.
2. Is surgery always required for piles?
No, 95% of piles cases are managed with lifestyle changes and medications.
3. What lifestyle changes help in treating piles?
Increasing fiber intake, staying active, and maintaining good bowel habits are essential changes.
4. What medications are given for piles?
Medications help reduce swelling, stop bleeding, soften stool, reduce pain, and prevent infection.
5. When does piles require surgery?
Surgery is considered in cases with severe symptoms, like Grade 4 piles, or if the condition does not improve with other treatments.
6. How is piles diagnosed?
Through physical check-up, endoscopy, and some diagnostic tests.
7. Can I get more information about my symptoms online?
Yes, you can ask questions in the video’s comment section, and Dr. Kulkarni or his team will respond.