WHAT ARE HAEMORRHOIDS/PILES?
Hemorrhoids, often known as piles, are bulging veins in the anus and lower rectum. You may feel or notice small round lumps on your anus when they are hanging outside the anal canal. This "cushioning" helps us maintain continence by allowing us to pass motion without leaking faeces. But we detect them only when there is bleeding, pain, prolapse, or discharge. They may bleed, or slip out of place during bowel movements. Hemorrhoids are very common and affect one in every three Singaporeans, and can often disrupt a person’s everyday routine.
TYPES OF HAEMORRHOID
Internal
These form in the rectum and do not generally cause pain or discomfort. When strained, some may protrude out of the anal canal. The protruding hemorrhoids can be spontaneously returned, or physically forced back into the anal canal in moderate situations. In more acute cases however, these protruding hemorrhoids cannot be pushed back into the anal canal.
External
External hemorrhoids form around the anus and are distinguished by a lump at or surrounding it. They are not reducible and can cause pain, itching, and bleeding. They are susceptible to the formation of painful blood clots (thrombosis).
HAEMORRHOIDS/PILES
TREATMENT
The treatment of symptoms is determined by the type and severity of a patient’s condition. Our haemorrhoid/piles specialists often recommend and employ a variety of methods starting with conservative approaches like introducing lifestyle changes and non-surgical treatments before progressing to surgical treatments.
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Hemorrhoid/Piles surgery is only required when symptoms persist after more conservative treatments have been employed.
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Early diagnosis and intervention are always key to achieving optimal treatment outcomes.
WHEN SHOULD I
SEE A DOCTOR?
If you are experiencing any (or a combination) of the following symptoms persistently, it is best to seek expert help as soon as you can.
Blood in Stools
Anal Pain
Anal Itching
Fecal Incontinence
Anal Lumps
Persistent
Abdominal Pain
Unexplained change in Bowel Patterns
OUR EXPERIENCED
COLORECTAL SURGEON
Medical School
University of Calgary
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General Surgery Residency
SUNY Upstate Medical University,
New York, USA
Colon and Rectal Surgery Fellowship
Washington Hospital Center,
Washington DC, USA
Certification
1. American Board of Surgery,
2009 & 2019
2. American Board of Colon & Rectal Surgery,
2010
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Dr. Frances Lim is a double board-certified general surgeon as well as a colon & rectal surgeon. She is an internationally known physician, and has served as a senior consultant to the National Cancer Institute Singapore (NCIS) and to the Division of Colorectal Surgery at National University Health System (NUHS) Singapore. In these roles she has worked closely with surgical residents to ensure quality healthcare for her patients. She is now happy to be a part of Colorectal Clinic Associates where she can practice holistic, patient centered, compassionate care. Dr. Lim respects patient preferences and takes the time to explain all medical options available to them so they can make the best decision for themselves. Utilizing evidence-based medicine, her approach to patient care is much appreciated by her patients and their families.
OUR OTHER SPECIALIST SERVICES
Colon & Rectal Surgery
Whether it's cancers in the colon and rectum, hernias and piles, or irritable bowel syndrome, there are many conditions that can cause discomfort to your digestive system. If you are experiencing any symptoms, do not ignore them, and get expert help today.
Cancer Screening
Screenings such as colonoscopies are the most effective diagnostic procedures to help detect conditions such as cancer early.
Colonoscopies in particular are considered the "Gold Standard" of tests. Screenings allow for early intervention and prevents a condition (if any) from worsening.
General Surgery
If you are experiencing pain and discomfort in the abdomen, or bleeding around the anus or in your stools, you could have a condition that can be treated if detected early. Schedule an appointment today to treat it effectively and safely.
HOW MUCH IS IT?
Screenings and treatment procudes are both Medisave and insurance claimable. Our staff at our clinics will help you out with financial counselling as needed.
Panel Specialist - Integrated Shield Plan
Panel Specialist - Integrated Shield Plan
