Pilonidal Sinus – Anal Fistula
In this article, we will learn more about fistulas in detail.
What Is a Fistula?
It is an abnormal connection between the lining inside the anal canal, and the skin near the anus. The anus is the muscular opening at the end of the digestive tract, where stool exits the body.
- What Are the Symptoms of a Fistula?
- Pain, especially when sitting.
- Fever and chills.
- A feeling of fatigue.
- Irritation of the skin around the anus.
- A skin tag or mass around the anus.
- Foul-smelling discharge near the anus.
Pus, or blood during bowel movements.
What Are the Causes of a Fistula?
- The most common cause of a fistula is an anal abscess, which is an accumulation of infected fluids and pus in the anus. However, there are less common causes:
- Crohn’s disease – a long-term condition, where the digestive system becomes inflamed.
- Diverticulitis – inflammation or infection of pouches that have formed in the colon (diverticula).
- Hidradenitis suppurativa – a chronic skin condition, that causes abscesses and scarring.
- Complications from surgery near the anus.
- Other diseases that lead to weakened immunity, abscess formation, and fistulas, such as:
- AIDS.
- Tumors.
Tuberculosis.
- What Are the Diagnostic Methods?
- The doctor takes the medical history and conducts a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
- Rectal examination.
- Anoscope, a procedure using a special tool to view inside the anus and rectum.
- Colonoscopy, a procedure used by the doctor to look inside the colon and rectum.
- Fistula probe, a long, thin tool guided through the fistula’s external opening. Sometimes a special dye is injected to locate the internal opening of the fistula.
-
- Imaging studies:
- Ultrasound imaging.
- Computed tomography (CT scan).
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
What Are the Treatment Methods for a Fistula?
- Treatment includes several procedures as needed and may involve:
- Surgical removal of the skin connection.
- Adjuvant therapy with surgery, by:
- Eating high-fiber foods, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of water.
Taking warm baths, and applying a muscle relaxant cream to the surrounding area.
- What Are the Preventive Measures for a Fistula?
- Maintaining cleanliness of the anal area.
Avoiding constipation by consuming high-fiber foods, exercising regularly, and drinking plenty of water.
What Are the Complications of a Fistula?
Fistula complications include the recurrence of the condition after treatment, and inability to control bowel movements (fecal incontinence), as well as bacterial infections that may lead to sepsis.
When Should You See a Doctor?
- If you have symptoms of a fistula, especially if you have had a previous anal abscess, you should see a doctor when you have the following:
- Pain during bowel movements.
- Purulent discharge from the anal area.
Blood in the stool.
Frequently Asked Questions
How serious is a fistula?
If left untreated, a fistula may cause serious symptoms that in turn lead to bigger complications, such as bacterial contamination, which can lead to sepsis – a dangerous condition that may cause low blood pressure or organ damage. Therefore, you should see a doctor if you encounter any symptoms of a fistula.
Is a fistula a sign of cancer?
If left untreated, a fistula can cause cancer in rare cases, so it is essential to consult a doctor if you have symptoms of a fistula to take appropriate action.
Can a fistula heal on its own?
