Do Haemorrhoids Go Away on Their Own?

Haemorrhoids, or piles, are a common yet uncomfortable condition that can cause pain, itching, and bleeding around the anus. If you, like many others, are experiencing them, you may be wondering if they will go away on their own.

The answer depends on the type, severity, and your overall health. In this article, we will guide you through what haemorrhoids are, how they progress over time, and what the available haemorrhoid treatment options are in Singapore.

Haemorrhoids are enlarged blood vessels in the lower rectum or anus, similar to varicose veins. They may develop internally within the rectum or externally under the skin around the anus.

Common causes include:

• Straining during bowel movements
• Chronic constipation or diarrhoea
• Sitting for long periods on the toilet
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• A low-fibre diet
• Obesity or heavy lifting

These factors increase pressure in the pelvic and rectal area, causing veins to swell and become inflamed.

Yes, symptoms of early piles may resolve especially if the triggering factors are addressed early. Small internal piles may shrink and stop causing discomfort after a few days.

However, larger, persistent, or thrombosed haemorrhoids (those with clotted blood) are not likely to resolve on their own and often require treatment.

If your piles are mild, you can take steps at home to support healing and reduce discomfort:

• Increase dietary fibre: Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains to soften stools and reduce straining.
• Drink plenty of water: Hydration helps prevent constipation.
• Take sitz baths: Soak your anal area in warm water for 10–15 minutes, several times a day.
• Avoid straining: Don’t force bowel movements or sit on the toilet for too long.
• Use topical creams: Over-the-counter hydrocortisone or witch hazel pads can ease irritation.
• Apply cold compresses: This can reduce swelling in external haemorrhoids.

Exercise regularly: Engaging in light activity promotes bowel regularity and reduces pressure on the veins.

You should see a piles doctor if:

• You experience rectal bleeding that doesn’t improve or is heavy or frequent.
• The haemorrhoids persist beyond a week despite home treatment.
• You feel a lump near the anus that is painful or hard (could indicate thrombosis).
• There is severe itching, pain, or discomfort affecting daily life.
• Your bowel habits have changed, or you notice mucus, pus, or unusual discharge.
  

When haemorrhoids do not resolve with home care or if they recur frequently, medical treatment may be necessary.

Rubber Band Ligation (RBL)

The doctor secures a small rubber band around the base of the haemorrhoid, strangulating its blood supply. The haemorrhoid typically falls off within a few days.

Sclerotherapy

For this treatment, the doctor injects a medicated solution directly into the haemorrhoid, causing it to shrink and eventually fibrose and scar down.

Stapled Haemorrhoidopexy (PPH)

The piles specialist repositions and secures the haemorrhoids higher up in the rectum with a circular stapling device. This resects a cuff of haemorrhoidal tissue and also restricts blood flow to the affected tissue, causing it to shrink.

Conventional Haemorrhoidectomy

Piles surgery involves removing severe or large external or internal haemorrhoids. It’s reserved for cases where the stapled procedure is not suitable, particularly when there are associated significant external haemorrhoidal cushions and skin.

Transanal Haemorrhoidal Dearterialization

A minimally invasive technique that involves locating and tying off the arteries supplying blood to the haemorrhoids using Doppler ultrasound guidance. By reducing blood flow, the haemorrhoids gradually shrink.

Preventing haemorrhoids and avoiding recurrence is possible through consistent lifestyle adjustments:

• Adopt a high-fibre diet and stay hydrated.
• Don’t delay bowel movements when you feel the urge.
• Maintain a healthy weight to reduce pelvic pressure.
• Avoid prolonged sitting, especially on the toilet.
• Use the toilet properly—some people find it beneficial to elevate their feet slightly for better posture during bowel movements.
  

Haemorrhoids are treatable, and you don’t have to suffer in silence. If your symptoms persist or are bothersome, consult a piles specialist at Colorectal Clinic Associates.

Our team in Singapore offers personalised, compassionate care using evidence-based haemorrhoid treatment tailored to your needs. Book an appointment today.