A fistula is one of the complicated diseases of the anus. This disease can be due to various reasons. It can be cured with proper lifestyle and treatment.
What causes a fistula and how does it occur?
A rectal fistula is a small tunnel or duct that connects an infected cavity to the skin around the anus. Just inside the anus are many small glands that produce mucus. Sometimes these glands become blocked and infected, causing abscesses. About half of these abscesses may later develop into fistulas.
The main causes of a rectal fistula are rectal gland and rectal abscess. Additionally, the following conditions can cause a rectal fistula: Crohn’s disease (an inflammatory bowel disease), radiotherapy, trauma, venereal disease, tuberculosis, diverticulitis (a disease in which small pouches form in the large intestine and become inflamed), and cancer.
What are the types of fistulas?
Simple Fistula:
It is easier to treat as it does not penetrate too deep into the rectal muscle.
Complex Fistula:
There are different types depending on how deep the fistula penetrates into the rectal tissue.
What are the symptoms?
Frequent rectal abscesses, pain, and swelling around the anus, discharge of bloody or foul-smelling pus from a mouth around the anus. In this case, pain may decrease after fistula extraction.
Irritation of the skin around the anus.
Pain with stool.
Bleeding.
Fever.
How is rectal fistula diagnosed?
A doctor can usually diagnose a rectal fistula by examining the area around the anus. They will look for an opening and a duct (fistula tract) in the skin there, and determine the depth and direction of the tract or tunnel. In many cases, pus or fluid is drained from the external opening.
How to prevent this disease:
There are some things you can do to prevent this type of disease. Here they are:
- Eat high fiber food and stay hydrated: Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day to stay hydrated. High fiber foods will help increase your digestive power. Include fiber-rich foods in your daily diet.
- Keep your rectal area clean: Always keep this area clean.
- Be aware of any abscesses: Immediately address any abscesses to prevent them from developing into fistulas.
- Avoid prolonged sitting: Prolonged sitting can cause diseases like rectal fistula and piles. If your work involves long periods of sitting, take breaks to prevent these types of diseases.
- Exercise daily: Daily exercise will also help prevent these diseases.
- Avoid foods that cause constipation: Be mindful of foods that can cause constipation.
- Seek medical attention for symptoms: If you experience symptoms such as persistent anal pain, swelling, or discharge, see a doctor immediately, as these may indicate an underlying problem.
When you have this disease, follow these rules:
- Avoid oily food: Oily food can exacerbate the problem.
- Follow doctor’s instructions: Always follow your doctor’s advice and avoid taking any medicine without their guidance.
- Avoid shower gels and body lotions: Do not use these products in the affected area.
However, by following these basic steps, you can easily prevent these diseases. Be mindful of what you eat; eating healthy food will help prevent these diseases. Eat healthy, live healthy.
