What is fistula-in-ano?
An anal abscess is an infected cavity filled with pus which is found near the anus or rectum. An anal fistula is commonly known as fistula-in-ano and it is a result of a previous or current anal abscess. An abscess or a cavity forms when a bacterium, faecal matter or foreign material clog the anal gland and tunnel around the anus.
It is characterized by swelling, pain, inflammation and the discharge of pus which leads to discomfort and uneasiness.
This condition is usually found in young people and predominantly men.
What are the causes of fistula- in-ano?
-Physical strain
-Defecation problems
-Low-fiber diet
-Weak anal sphincter muscles
-Skin dry, especially mucous membranes
-Small tight anus
-Prolongstanding diseases like tuberculosis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, Ca-rectum or Ano rectal or gynecological surgery
What are the symptoms of fistula-in-ano?
-Swelling
-Itching
-Boils, abscess and pus discharge from the anorectal area
-Perianal discharge
-Pain
-Bleeding
-Diarrhea
-Skin excoriation
-External opening
-Fever
-Pricking, stabbing feeling in the anus
-Weight loss
-Changes in bowel habits
-Abdominal pain
-Irritation due to pus discharge
-Systemic spread of infection
Is a fistula a sign of cancer?
No, it is not a sign of cancer but if the fistula-in-ano is left untreated for a long time then there may be a risk of developing cancer.
What are the investigations for fistula-in-ano?
-Complete case history
-Physical examination
-Digital examination
-Proctoscopy
-Sigmoidoscopy
-Probing
-Blood test
-Biopsy in some cases
-Fistulography
-Endorectal ultrasound
-MRI and CT scan
-Barium enema
What is the treatment for fistula-in-ano?
-Antibiotics
-Analgesics
-Anti-inflammatory
-Anti-bacterial drugs
-Surgery
What are the complications of fistula-in-ano?
-Pain
-Bleeding
-Fever
-Pus formation
-Fecal impaction
-Sitting difficulty
-Urinary retention
Diet / management of fistula-in-ano?
-Take plenty of fluids
-Add fibre to the diet
-Exercise regularly
-Follow regular bowel habits
-maintain hygienic conditions
-Treat constipation or diarrhoea immediately
-Avoid friction or injury
-Use dry cleaning with toilet paper
-Avoid scratching
-Avoid spicy, oily, non-veg food
-Quit smoking and limit alcohol
-Limit coffee intake
-Never suppress an urge to pass stool
What is the homoeopathic treatment for fistula-in-ano?
-Berberis vulgaris
-Calcarea Phos
-Carbo vegetabilis
-Nitric acid
-Silicea Terra
