Piles, or haemorrhoids, are a common condition in Singapore, affecting one in three individuals—especially those over 40 and pregnant women. They occur due to excessive pressure on the veins around the anus, causing itching, pain, or bleeding during bowel movements.

Despite how widespread this condition is, many misconceptions still exist. Equipping oneself with the right information is crucial for effective management and preventing the condition from worsening. Here are six of the most common myths about piles, debunked.

Although piles are often associated with the elderly, anyone can develop the condition at any age. Haemorrhoids can develop when there has increased pressure on the veins around the anus, often due to straining, sitting too long on the toilet, heavy lifting, or chronic constipation or diarrhoea. Other contributing factors may also include genetics, obesity, poor dietary choices, and a lack of exercise.

There is no evidence that spicy foods directly cause haemorrhoids. However, if you already have haemorrhoids, spicy foods can aggravate symptoms. The capsaicin found in chilli peppers can irritate the sensitive tissues in the rectum, which can worsen burning and itching. Spicy food may also contribute to digestive issues, such as loose stools.

The temperature itself does not increase the risk of developing piles. Instead, it is prolonged sitting—especially on the toilet—that increases pressure on the blood vessels in the anus and rectum. In fact, some doctors may recommend a cold compress or ice pack to provide relief and reduce swelling for existing external haemorrhoids.

Some people experience severe pain, bleeding, and discomfort, while others may only have mild itching or irritation. The severity of symptoms largely depends on the size and location of the haemorrhoid. Internal haemorrhoids, for instance, form inside the rectum and often cause no noticeable symptoms unless they become enlarged or prolapsed. This means you can have haemorrhoids without even knowing it, making the absence of pain a misleading indicator.

Surgery is typically reserved as a last resort for severe or persistent cases that do not respond to more conservative treatments. Many cases of haemorrhoids can be managed effectively through non-surgical methods.

Simple lifestyle adjustments, such as increasing your fibre intake, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising regularly, can significantly improve symptoms and prevent recurrence. For immediate relief, over-the-counter creams, sitz baths, and other minimally invasive procedures can also be highly effective.

While over-the-counter creams and ointments can be effective at providing temporary relief from symptoms like itching and irritation, they do not address the root cause of the condition. For lasting results, lifestyle changes such as a high-fibre diet and proper hydration are essential to prevent recurrence. For more severe or persistent cases, a doctor may suggest a minimally invasive procedure or surgery as a long-term solution.

Piles are a common but manageable condition. A high-fibre diet, good hydration, regular exercise, and avoiding straining during bowel movements can all help reduce your risk. If you notice symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice early. Delaying treatment may lead to worsening symptoms and complications like bleeding or prolapse. For a personalised assessment and treatment plan, call us at +65 6518 9838 to book a consultation with our colorectal specialist.