Anal Fistula or Anal Fissure?

Anal Fistula or Anal Fissure? Anus Pain: Which Is It?

The anus, which begins at the base of the rectum, is an opening at the end of the gastrointestinal tract. Rectal contents are detected by this final component of your digestive system's structure. Treatment for problems with the anus varies depending on the symptoms you're experiencing.

Anal fissures and anal fistulas are the two conditions of the anus that occur the most frequently.

What are the differences between anal fissures and anal fistulas?

Anal fissure, also known as Fissure-in-ano, is a small tear that runs along the anal canal's lining. It is typically brought on by continual bouts of diarrhea or constipation, anal sex, rectal cancer, or vaginal birth, all of which put too much stress on the anal muscles.

On the other hand, anal fistulas are small, pus-filled tunnels that connect an infected cavity and the anal glands. Most of the time, it comes from an anal abscess, which is an infected cavity that blocks the anus's glands. It may occur following complicated bowel movements or rectal surgery.

Despite their vastly different conditions and symptoms, they are frequently used interchangeably:

Pain during and after bowel movements Anal fissure symptoms Anal fistula symptoms Pain during and after bowel movements Repeated anal abscesses Visible crack or tear in the skin around the anus Blood or pus drainage around the anus Blood in the stool Irritation around the skin near the anus Small lump on the skin near the anal fissure Constant fatigue, fever, and chills

Fistula Doctor in Kolkata Despite the fact that anal fissures and fistulas can be diagnosed with a physical examination of the anus, some physicians would recommend specific screenings to ensure your condition is fully understood.

The first level of physical examination is typically sufficient to identify anal fissures because the tear is typically visible. A new anal fissure will look like a cut in paper. However, a chronic anal fissure may have a larger tear accompanied by flesh growth either internal or external.

In most cases, anal fissures heal on their own within a few weeks with some preventative measures like eating more fiber-rich foods and keeping your stool soft. A Fistula Specialist doctor may advise you to soak in warm water for 10 to 20 minutes, especially after a bowel movement, to help heal the fissure and alleviate pain.

A procedure known as a Lateral Internal Sphincterotomy (LIS) may be suggested to you if your symptoms point to a chronic anal fissure. Your anal sphincter muscle will have a small cut made by the doctor, which will help ease pain and spasm.

Read Also: Using NeoLaser for Anal Fistula Treatment

An Anoscopy is a procedure that can be used to make a diagnosis and provide treatment for anal fistula. It can be further examined with the assistance of an anal ultrasound or MRI using a special instrument to view inside the anus and rectum. This will make it easier to prescribe treatment and identify the fistula's tract.

Anal fistula typically necessitates a colon and rectal specialist-performed surgical procedure for treatment. Most of the time, they are treated with the Fistulotomy, which involves opening up the muscle and skin along the fistula tract for complete internal healing. If your fistula is more complicated, you might be told to put in a seton, a special drain that can last up to six weeks.

 Managing Anal Problems Anal-Fissure-Fistula-High-Fibre-Diet Several changes to one's lifestyle and diet can help alleviate pain, such as eating foods high in fiber, drinking enough fluids, and not straining during a bowel movement. The objective is to live a better and healthier life.