Rectal fistula is one of the complicated diseases of the anus. This disease can be caused by various reasons. It can be cured with proper lifestyle and treatment.
What causes a rectal 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 tiny glands that produce mucus.
Sometimes, these glands become blocked and infected, causing abscesses. About half of these abscesses may later develop into fistulas.
The leading causes of a rectal fistula are the 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
What are the types of rectal fistulas?
1. Simple rectal fistula:
It is easier to treat as it does not penetrate too deep into the rectal muscle.
2. Complex rectal fistula:
Depending on how deep the fistula penetrates into rectal tissue, there are different types.
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 daily 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 fistulas and piles. If your work involves extended 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 constant anal pain, swelling, or discharge, see a doctor immediately, as these may indicate an underlying problem.
How to treat fistula naturally
Dealing with rectal fistulas naturally can be done by focusing on soothing the area, improving your digestion, and boosting your body’s ability to heal. Here’s how you can take care of it at home:
1. Soak in Warm Water
Take a warm sitz bath (just sitting in a basin or bathtub with warm water) for 10–15 minutes a few times a day. This can help ease pain, reduce swelling, and keep the area clean.
2. Eat Foods That Help You Poop Easily
Constipation makes things worse, so eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains like millets, quinoa, and seeds. They’re high in fiber, which keeps your bowels moving smoothly. Don’t forget to drink lots of water—it’s just as important as the fiber!
3. Turmeric
Turmeric is excellent for fighting inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm milk or water and drink it daily to support healing from the inside.
4. Probiotics for a Happy Gut
Foods like yogurt, beet kvass, kefir, or pickles (fermented ones!) help keep your digestion on track, which can take some pressure off the fistula.
5. Aloe Vera Love
Aloe vera is soothing and can help with healing. You can drink aloe vera juice or gently apply pure aloe vera gel around the area to calm irritation.
6. Stay Active, but Gently
Avoid sitting for long periods, and try to stay active without overdoing it. Even short walks can improve blood flow and speed up healing.
7. Be Kind to Your Immune System
Eat foods rich in vitamin C (like oranges and bell peppers) and zinc (like nuts and seeds) to strengthen your body’s natural defenses.
8. Herbs to the Rescue
Natural remedies like calendula or neem can help with healing. You can find creams or diluted oils with these ingredients to apply to the area.
When to See a Doctor
If the fistula isn’t getting better, feels worse, or is draining a lot, don’t wait—see a doctor. Natural remedies can help with comfort and healing, but some fistulas need medical treatment to heal completely.
Be careful of what you eat; eating healthy food will help prevent these diseases. Eat healthy, live healthy.
Here are some research articles that discuss symptoms and related information about rectal fistula:
1. Rectovaginal Fistulas – PMC
This article discusses the diagnostic process for rectovaginal fistulas, including symptoms and necessary studies to confirm their presence.
2. Stem Cell Injection for Complex Anal Fistula in Crohn’s Disease
This study explores the outcomes of stem cell treatments for anal fistulas, detailing symptoms and complications associated with fistulas in patients with Crohn’s disease.
3. Perianal Abscess/Fistula Disease – PMC
This article examines perianal abscesses and fistulas, their symptoms, and the underlying disease processes involved.
