Do you have a small boil or opening near your back passage (anus) that does not heal? Does it sometimes leak a bit of pus or fluid, leaving a stain on your underwear? Do you feel a dull ache or swelling in that area, especially when you sit for a long time?
If you are dealing with these issues, this guide is for you. We will explain what a fistula is in simple language, so you can understand your condition and what to do next.
What Exactly Is a Fistula?
A fistula is like a tiny, unwanted tunnel that forms under your skin. It connects a gland inside your anus to an opening on the skin outside. Think of it as a small passage that was not there before. This tunnel can get infected and leak fluid. It is a common problem that does not go away on its own. In India, this condition is sometimes called bhagandar.
What Causes a Fistula?
Most fistulas start with a simple problem. Inside your anus, there are small glands. If one gets blocked, it can become infected and fill with pus. This forms a painful pocket called an abscess, which many people in India call a phoda or boil. When this abscess drains out, it can leave a small tunnel behind. This tunnel is the fistula. It is the track the infection took to get out.
When Should You See a Doctor?
You should visit a doctor if you notice any lasting problems near your back passage. These signs include a small hole or a returning boil, pain and swelling in that area, or a discharge of pus or blood. You might also feel discomfort when passing stool or while sitting on a chair or riding a scooter. A general surgeon is the right doctor to see for this problem. They can usually identify a fistula with a simple physical exam.
How Are Fistulas Fixed?
A fistula tunnel will not close with any creams or medicines. The only way to fix a fistula is with a medical procedure or surgery. The main goal is to get rid of the tunnel and let the area heal completely while protecting the muscles that control your bowels. A common surgery is a fistulotomy, where the surgeon carefully cuts open the tunnel to let it heal from the bottom up. For more complex cases, a special thread called a seton may be used to help it drain and heal slowly. A newer method is laser surgery, which uses a laser fibre to close the tunnel from the inside, often with less pain.
Key Takeaways
A fistula is a small tunnel under the skin near your anus that will not heal on its own. It is usually caused by a previous infection or abscess. Ignoring it can lead to more problems. The only way to cure a fistula is through a medical procedure or surgery performed by a specialist.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Is a fistula the same as piles (hemorrhoids)?
A: No, they are different. Piles are swollen blood vessels inside or around the anus. A fistula is a tunnel that connects an internal gland to the outer skin. A doctor can tell you which condition you have.
Q: Can certain foods cure my fistula?
A: No, food cannot cure a fistula. However, eating a high-fibre diet with lots of water can soften your stool. This prevents constipation and makes passing stool less painful while you are waiting for or recovering from treatment.
Q: Will the fistula come back after surgery?
A: When performed by an experienced surgeon, the success rate for fistula surgery is very high. The chance of it coming back is low. Following your doctor’s post-surgery care instructions is very important for proper healing.