Do you have chronic discharge, pain, or swelling around your anal area? An anal fistula is a tiny tunnel-like opening that develops between the skin and the anal canal. Ignoring anal fistula symptoms can have major consequences, such as infections and the development of an abscess, even though they may begin as a minor discomfort.
A correct diagnosis of an fistula is essential for early detection and successful treatment.
Table of Contents
What Is an Anal Fistula?
An irregular tunnel that develops between the skin surrounding the anus and the anal canal is called an anal fistula. It typically develops as a result of an untreated anal abscess, which is a pocket of pus caused by infection. When the abscess fails to heal completely, it may create a pathway that continuously drains pus or fluids, leading to discomfort.
Anal Fistula Signs & Symptoms
If you think that you might be suffering from fistula, keep your eyes peeled for the following tell-tale signs and symptoms:
• Severe Pain – This sharp pain or perhaps throbbing is usually felt perineally, more so while sitting, moving about, and pooping.
• Pus or Bleeding from the Anus – The continuous or intermittent leakage of some really foul-smelling pus, blood, or fluid from the anal region.
• Redness and Swelling – swollen lump on or very close to the anus which is tender to touch.
• Rashes and Irritation to the Skin – Skin in and around the anal area due to constant discharge is itchy and inflamed.
• Fever and Weakness-Fever from recurrent infections and feeling quite weak.
What Causes an Anal Fistula?
An understanding of the causes of fistula would help in prevention and treatment efforts. Some common causes include:
Anal Abscess : An anal abscess that has not been treated has a close connection with the anal fistula. With time, if an anal abscess does not drain properly, it could develop into a fistula.
Chronic Infections : might trigger fistula formation upon recurrent infection in the anal glands.
Crohn’s Disease : In the presence of Crohn’s disease, these individuals are prone to being at greater risk due to the chronic inflammatory state of the intestine.
Tuberculosis and Other Diseases : Some infections, for instance, tuberculosis, HIV, or STDs, could aid in the formation of a fistula.
Fistula as a Post-Surgical Sequel or Injury: Rectal examinations or trauma to the anal region increase the chances of fistula development.
How Is an Anal Fistula Diagnosed?
A proper diagnosis of fistula is very important to begin an appropriate treatment. This is how a physician confirms the disease:
Physician Examination : The physician will examine the patient clinically, looking for external openings, erythema and pus drainage from the external opening.
Proctoscopy : An instrument is inserted from the rectum to internally evaluate damage and assess the deeper tracts of the fistula.
MRI or CT Scan : In complicated cases, imaging tests are utilized to visualize the fistula’s depth, capture its route.
Fistulography : It is diagnosed by injecting a contrast dye through the fistula opening and taking X-rays of the fistula structure.
Anal Fistula Treatment Options
If the characteristics of an fistula are present, the next step is treatment; this entails choosing the one that best fits the severity and complexity of the disease.
Fistulotomy– The most common surgery where the fistula is cut open and left to heal naturally
Seton Placement – A surgical thread is placed inside the fistula to allow gradual healing while preventing infection
Flap Surgery – This operation is limited to actual complex cases and it employs the application of tissue flap to close the fistula opening
Antibiotics & Medication – These are administered in mild cases or infections but do not cure the fistula at all
Fibrin glue injection – The special glue is injected into the fistula to seal it without doing surgery.
Learn more about Fistula treatments
FAQs
1. What are some common symptoms of the anal fistula?
The most common ones for fistula are persistent pain, discharge with pus or blood, and swelling and irritation about the anus.
2. How is the diagnosis of an anal fistula made?
The diagnosis is made by the doctor using physical examination, proctoscopy, MRI, or fistulography.
3. Can anal abscesses and fistula go away on their own?
Fistulae usually take surgical intervention or medical treatment for their complete healing.
4. What are some possible causes of anal fistula?
Common suspects will be infections, anal abscesses, Crohn’s disease, and past rectal surgery.
5. Which are the best options for the treatment of an anal fistula?
Treatment options would include seton, fibrin glue, fistulotomy, flap surgery, or antibiotics.
6. What are the consequences of ignoring fistula symptoms?
The condition may lead to persistent recurrences of infection, excruciating pain, and potentially catastrophic conditions like septicemia.
Conclusion
If an anal fistula is not treated, it may result in pain, infections, and long-term issues. Effective treatment depends on early detection of symptoms and timely diagnosis. To find the best treatment options for your condition, speak with a specialist if you’re experiencing any of the symptoms.
Don’t ignore symptoms of anal fistulas! For early diagnosis, consult a doctor right now.
