An anal fistula describes an abnormal channel that develops between the anus region and the anal canal. It can lead to pain, discharge, and inflammation which dramatically impacts an individual’s lifestyle. To effectively treat an anal fistula, its causes must be appreciated. The article outlines underlying reasons and prevalent risk factors associated with anal fistulas.
What Is An Anal Fistula?
Let us explain the causes first, but a gentle revision is necessary first: The most common cause of an anal fistula is previously diagnosed infection of the anal glands. These glands can become obstructed, and once infected, they will often turn into abscesses (painful sacks filled with pus). When an abscess drains but a tunnel remains, it is termed a fistula.
Common Causes of Anal Fistula
1. Anal Abscess:
Fistula formation is directly impacted by anal abscesses. Any infection leading to congestion within anal glands will often lead to abscesses. Anal gland infections can give birth to pus containing tracts which freely flow from skin outward.
2. Infection of Anal Glands:
Infection of anal glands is also capable of causing fistulas to develop. Due to the existence of the small glands surrounding the ass, they do get infected when bacteria invades through skin tears or the anal canal.
3. Crohn's Disease
This type of inflammatory bowel disease leads to chronic inflammation of the digestive tract and increases the possibility of developing fistulas in the perianal region. In Crohn's disease, the fistulas can be more complex and difficult to manage surgically.
4. Trauma or Injury
Postoperative, post-childbirth, or accidental trauma to the anal area may lead to the development of fistulas due to tissue destruction and subsequent infection.
5. Tuberculosis and Other Infections
Fistulous tracts in the anal region are uncommon in most parts of the world, but infections such as tuberculosis of the spine and some sexually transmitted diseases may lead to such conditions.
6. Cancer
The primary anal fistula may arise secondary to anal or colorectal tumors which, although less frequently, may also infiltrate adjacent structures.
Risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing an anal fistula include:
- Chronic constipation or diarrhea causing repetitive trauma to the anal canal.
- Inadequate hygienic measures or recurrent infections.
- Previous colorectal abscess or surgery in the region.
- Disorders of the defense mechanisms of the body or those that lead to impaired healing.
- Obesity combined with prolonged sitting which increases the potential for infection and pressure.
How is Fistula Formed?
Usually, this condition arises when an anal gland becomes infected, leading to the formation of an abscess. If the abscess undergoes inadequate management or drains on its own, the infection may erode tissues towards the skin, thus forming a fistula. Persistent existence of the fistula will cause some symptoms to arise.
When to Consult Your Physician
Symptomatic presentation of pain around the anal region, pus, blood discharge, and recurrent swellings requiring draining in form of lumps necessitates attending a best fistula doctor in delhi. Evaluating a patient early allows timely intervention for an optimal result and diminishes chances of adverse consequences.
Final Remarks
Timely intervention for anal fistulas serves to circumvent complications. Treating underlying health issues such as infections or abscesses and Crohn’s disease aids in appropriate resolution. Good hygiene practices, attending to infections, chronic risk factors, and prompt professional care at suspicion of fistulas guides to better prevention and management practices.
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