Anal fistula is a condition where the lining of the anus is torn due to a variety of reasons, such as childbirth, straining during bowel movement, prolonged sitting on a hard surface, and so on. This can significantly reduce your quality of life, hamper your daily routine, cause discomfort, and bleeding when passing stools. This is why it becomes important to identify and work on the issue early before it turns critical.
Let’s admit it, all of us feel ashamed of discussing this issue with anyone. After all, who likes to discuss butts and poops? As a result, first and foremost, we search for DIY options and home remedies. That said, are there really effective ways of treating this issue at home?
If you have been searching, how to heal a fistula without surgery, then you have come to the right blog. This section is dedicated to exploring the efficient home remedies that help you relieve anal fistulas, privately and securely.
What Is An Anal Fistula?
An infection in the anal area that turns inflammatory form of an abscess in the glands where stool exists in the body. When it ruptures, it leads to the formation of a fistula.
Let us have a look at some of the most common causes of anal fistula:
- Any trauma in the anal area
- Damage to the lining because of straining during constipation and loose motions
- Childbirth- most women face this issue during a natural vaginal birth
- Hypothyroidism is also linked with the development of an anal fistula in many cases
Depending on the level of the infection, the fistulas can be of different types. This may include:
- Superficial fistulas
- Trans-sphincteric fistulas
- Complete fistulas
- Incomplete fistulas
- Intra-sphincteric fistulas
- Simple fistulas
- Complex fistulas
Although harmless in the initial stages, anal fistulas can be difficult to treat when left untreated. This is a common condition that can happen to anyone at any point in time. That said, it mostly happens in middle-aged people ranging between 30-50 years.
What are the Symptoms of an anal fistula?
Those suffering from anal fistula experince the following symptoms:
- A small nodule around the anus that can be discharging foul-smelling liquid.
- Burning sensation, itching, pain, and bright red blood during bowel movements. This causes acute pain to the patient.
- Due to regular discharge, swelling, and redness in and around the anus
- Pain while sitting on a hard surface
- Discomfort during walking
- Fatigue, fever, and chills in case of heavy infection
Can an anal fistula be treated at home?
Once you have a confirmed diagnosis of anal fistula, it is always recommended to seek professional help. Since it is a proven and result-oriented approach. Under the guidance and care of a professional, you save yourself from any unexpected events with ease. It’s because anal fistula natural treatment doesn’t always yield positive results. In some cases, it may worsen the issue.
That said, there are several home remedies that people around the globe follow for finding relief. This may include:
Dietary changes
Those who have developed fistulas due to an upset stomach should change their diet. Adding more fiber softens the stool, which passes smoothly. As a result, you don’t have strain or push during bowel movements. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day is another proven way of softening the stool and relieving constipation.
Warm baths
Soaking the anal area in warm water for 10-15 minutes per day seems to be effective in fistula issues. This method reduces pain, irritation, and inflammation caused by fissures. However, this is a kind of topical application. This means it only relieves the symptoms doesn’t work on the core reasons of the issue.
Maintain hygiene
Keeping the area clean and dry after use is another approach used by many people. Using a gentle stream of water and drying the area after use should be practiced. The usage of rough toilet paper should be avoided. And patting should be done in place of rubbing.
Staying light and cool
Avoid wearing tight clothes or sitting or standing for prolonged periods.
All these factors are suitable for those with benign or mild fistulas. Full-proof treatment of the problem at home is difficult. However, following a good regime and diet is also an important part of maintenance during recovery from fistula in ano surgery.
How is an anal fistula treated through surgery?
The most effective and proven method of treating fistulas is laser treatment for anal fissures. It is a minimally invasive and proven method to rightly address the issue and get lasting relief. It is a must for those with recurring fistulas.
Key highlights of laser treatment
Quick and targeted– the process is fast. Generally, the patient is released from the clinic on the very day of the surgery. It only works on the affected area and keeps the surroundings untouched.
No deep incision– unlike traditional surgery, laser treatment gently closes the fistula using light. This is the result: it causes minimal bleeding, promotes natural and faster healing.
Lower risk of infection– the laser sterilizes the area while working, reducing the chance of infection.
High success rate– as mentioned earlier in the blog, laser treatment is a proven method. As compared to home remedies, it is more focused and result-oriented.
Conclusion
If you are suffering from an anal fistula, the right treatment at the right time is important. If the problem is in its initial stage, you may try some home remedies. That said, it is crucial to seek professional guidance for understanding the severity of the condition and the best treatment approach.
For all your queries related to anal fistulas, feel free to connect with us at ProctoClinic