Fistulas

A fistula is an abnormal connection between two body parts, such as organs, vessels, or structures. Fistulas can form in various parts of the body due to a variety of causes, including injury, surgery, infection, inflammation, or underlying medical conditions.

Symptoms Of Fistulaa

1. Swelling around or near the anus.
2. Skin irritation, redness and tenderness around or near the anus.
3. Anal pain and swelling.
4. Discharge of pus or blood from the area.
5. Fever due to infection and pus.
6. Constipation and painful bowel movement.

Treatments

1.Surgery is often the primary treatment for fistulas, involving repair of the connection between the affected structures.
2. A seton (a special type of suture) may be placed in some types of fistulas to help drain fluid and aid in healing.
3. Fibrin glue can be used to seal the fistula tract.
4. In cases related to inflammatory bowel disease, medications to manage the underlying condition may be prescribed.

Causes Of Fistulas

Fistula is very common in men between 20 to 40 years. Anal fistulas are very painful and uncomfortable because of the discharge of pus. Some common reasons which cause fistula include:
1. Infection in the anal glands.
2. Constipation
3. Abscess in the large intestine
5. Crohn’s disease
6. Chronic Colitis

Diagnosis

A digital rectal examination is sufficient to diagnose an anal fistula but some patients require more tests to screen for:
1. Sexual infections
2. Inflammatory bowel diseases
3. Rectal cancer
4. Diverticular diseases
Doctors suggest tests such as ultrasound, a CT scan or an MRI to be conducted.