Anal Fistulas An Overview}

Anal Fistulas An Overview

by

Darlene Johnson

Anal fistulas and fissures are the last thing that one would like to have. These are painful and irritating conditions that tends to interfere with the normal curse of life and often disrupt movement. Basically an infection, anal fistulas are almost like a tunnel running between the anal gland and the skin that is outside the anus. Fistulas usually occur after an infection of the anal glands, in which these glands fill up with pus and fluids, thereby creating a painful abscess.

The abscess that is formed will drain on its own or through medications. However, it does not heal completely, and the tunnel will remain open much after the abscess has dried up. This creates a fistula.

Anal fistula is known to increase the chances of developing recurring infections in the anal gland, which is usually painful.

There are different types of anal fistulas that have been affecting people from time to infect. In fact, some people have a tendency of developing anal fistulas in general. Fistulas are prominently seen in and around the anus and the genitals, also called the perineum. There are 4 types of fistulas in general Enterocutaneous fistula, Enteroenteriv or Enterocolic fistula, Enterovaginal fistula and Enterovesicular fistula.

Enterocutaneous fistula is the en that develops from the intestine and reaches out to the skin. It is a complicated condition, and the most preferred treatment for removing the same is a surgery. It is often described as a passageway that leads from the intestine to the site of the surgery and then to the part of the skin.

Enteroenteric fistula is the one that involves the large intestine or the small intestine or both.

Eneterovaginal fistula reaches out to the vagina and involves both the anus and the vagina.

Enterovericular fistula goes to the main urinary bladder and results in frequent urinary tract infections.

It also causes passage of gas from urethra during urination.

The Symptoms of Anal Fistula

In addition to the pain and discomfort, anal fistula can cause fever, itching, tenderness and an overall feeling of illness. Some fistulas also tend to drain a foul-smelling discharge or pus. These symptoms usually vary, based n the location and the severity of the fistula.

Treatment for Anal Fistula

Anal fistula is best treated with antibiotics and topical creams. However, the treatment will depend on the location as well as the severity of the symptoms of fistula. Medicinal treatments usually include the groups of antibiotics, immunosuppressant and TNF-inhibitors.

In case of severe types of enterocutaneous, enterovaginal, and enterovesicular fisutas, an enteral diet is recommended by healthcare providers. An enteral diet is basically a liquid nutrition diet that is taken orally or given through feeding tube. This diet is given to replace solid food with vital nutrients in the form of liquid, which is easier to consume. Lesser solid food will result in lesser stool passing through anus, which will, in turn, help the fistulas in healing and even in closing.

Anal fistulas that do not respond to treatments and therapies will require a surgery. The surgeries are usually complicated, but very effective in healing fistulas permanently.

Darlene is a freelance alternative health writer specializing in

anal fissure treatment

methods.

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Anal Fistulas An Overview}