Having had piles surgery, you must be wondering what happens next. The healing process after piles surgery is as crucial as the operation itself. With good care and patience, you can recover comfortably and minimize the risk of complications or recurrence.
First, know that recovery time is different based on the kind of piles surgery you’ve had. If you’ve had a hemorrhoidectomy, stapled hemorrhoidopexy, or rubber band ligation, the general recovery rules are the same, though healing times will vary.
Pain control is important after piles surgery. Your physician will issue pain medication, which you should follow up on. Avoid letting the pain get bad before taking medication – remaining one step ahead of pain makes recovery easier. Certain individuals report that switching between prescribed pain medications and over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen is most effective, but talk to your doctor first.
The anal region must be kept clean. Wipe the region gently with warm water instead of toilet paper that can cause agitated tissues irritation after bowel motion. Sitz baths – bath in warm water for 15-20 minutes three to four times daily – are prescribed by doctors to wash and cure the region following piles surgery.
Your initial bowel movement following piles surgery may seem daunting, but it’s a significant milestone. To make it less difficult, your physician will probably prescribe stool softeners. Drink lots of water and gradually introduce fiber in your diet to avoid constipation, which could strain the operating site. Still, don’t strain or rush – take your time and relax during bathroom visits.
Diet plays a significant role in your recovery. Start with clear liquids and soft foods and then progress to a high-fiber diet including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. This will avoid constipation while nutrients for healing after piles surgery will be provided.
Rest is necessary, but exercise is too. While you shouldn’t do heavy exercise, lifting, or spend large amounts of time sitting for 2-4 weeks after piles surgery, short walks will aid circulation and prevent such complications that may arise in the form of blood clots.
Watch for infection or complication: fever, increased pain, bleeding that doesn’t stop, difficulty urinating, or unusual discharge. Notify your doctor immediately if you have any of these symptoms.
Bypass prolonged sitting because it results in pressure on the operating site. When sitting cannot be avoided, use a donut-shaped pillow to reduce rectal pressure.
Sexual intercourse can usually be avoided for at least two weeks after piles surgery, or as advised by your surgeon.
Attend all the follow-up visits with your doctor, even if you have fully recovered. Follow-up visits enable your surgeon to check on your recovery and deal with any issues.
Prevent recurrence by making long-term lifestyle modifications. Have a diet high in fibers, consume water in abundance, exercise regularly, and avoid straining during stool movements.
Emotional health matters. Healing from piles surgery is unpleasant and even embarrassing to discuss. Keep in mind, however, that this is a routine process, and talking to your doctor about issues is fine and to be encouraged.
With proper care and patience, most individuals recover quite well after piles surgery and return to normal in a matter of weeks without any symptoms that prompted surgery initially.
