How to Treat Anal Fistula

As we have noted, anal fistula can be located further or closer from the anus and, according to the location, can cause a more or less severe symptoms in the patient. In fact, you may notice only mild discomfort such as itching or burning or, on the contrary, sharp and intense pain at the time of defecation, which may extend for several hours after. Furthermore, it is possible that the stools have blood and small pus secretions occur that could even stain underwear.

In the case of suffering the discomforts described above, it will be essential you consult your doctor as soon as possible to undergo a complete physical examination. This is important because the only effective to treat anal fistula is surgical intervention. Through this, the fistula is definitively eliminated, draining fluid or pus that is within it, and thus, ending all the problems that it may have caused.

After surgery, it is possible that your doctor may prescribe some medications to reduce the pain or discomfort you may experience in the affected area. Likewise, and as relief, a therapeutic seated bath with warm water will result pleasant. You can do it directly in the bathtub, or fill a bowl or basin with warm water and cover it with it the affected area for at least 5 or 10 minutes. You can repeat the process a couple of times a day to reduce discomfort.

When treating an anal fistula after undergoing an operation, it is also important to avoid constipation, since the hardness of stool can cause severe pain and adversely affect the wound. That is why the doctor may also advise taking laxatives or stool softeners, something you have to do strictly following his or her instructions because too much could cause diarrhea, which is not favourable for the healing of anal fistula.

Avoiding conditions like constipation is not only a good measure for the treatment of anal fistula but also key to preventing its occurrence. So it is advisable to follow a balanced diet rich in fibre (increasing consumption of fruits, vegetables and whole grains), drink plenty of water and fluids and exercise the body through regular physical exercise. However, spicy foods, heavy with sauces, and foods that cause constipation such as pastries, rice, carrots, bananas, should be avoided.

Other Recommendations you should consider for curing an anal fistula and not to aggravate the injury or lead to new infections are:

• Wiping the rectal area carefully and using a soft toilet paper, avoiding those that contain dyes or fragrances.
• Maintain good hygiene by washing the perianal area frequently (2 times a day) and do always from front to back to prevent the genital area being damaged. Do not use harsh soaps, simply wash with a little warm water and a drop of pH neutral soap, as in indicated with a therapeutic seated bath.
• Prevent the affected area from remaining damp. Dry it well after cleaning and try to wear loose clothing and cotton underwear and clothing, favouring perspiration.
• Do not touch the injured area with the hands and prevent scratching with nails, even when you feel itchy.

This article is merely informative, oneHOWTO does not have the authority to prescribe any medical treatments or create a diagnosis. We invite you to visit your doctor if you have any type of condition or pain.

If you want to read similar articles to How to Treat Anal Fistula, we recommend you visit our Diseases & secondary effects category.