An anal fistula.It’s basically a tiny tunnel, you know that forms between the skin near your anus and the inside of your rectum or the anus itself.They often pop up after you’ve had an abscess—that painful, pus-filled collection.Sounds pretty awful doesn’t it?
However it’s surprisingly common and it can cause a fair amount of discomfort maybe even some serious pain if you just let it go.So, if you think you might be dealing with one, it’s important to spot the early warning signs which can hopefully help you get treatment sooner and prevent things from getting worse.In this little write-up, we’ll explore the common signs of an anal fistula discuss how you might recognize them and what steps to take if you think you’ve got one.
What Is an Anal Fistula?
Before we get into the symptoms, it’s probably helpful to understand what an anal fistula is and how it develops.Usually, it starts with an infection in one of the anal glands.This can then lead to an abscess forming.If the abscess doesn’t heal properly, it can create that little tunnel, that tract, between the skin around the anus and the rectum or anal canal.
Types of Anal Fistulas
- Intersphincteric fistulas: These are between the two muscle layers circling the anus (the internal and external sphincter muscles).
- Trans-sphincteric fistulas: These go through both muscle layers and out to the skin.
- Suprasphincteric fistulas: These pass above the sphincter muscles and into the rectum.
- Extrasphincteric fistulas: These are pretty rare and extend outside the anal sphincter muscles, connecting to other parts of the body.
The symptoms can shift depending on which type you have and how severe it is.But there are several key signs of an anal fistula to keep an eye out for.
Signs of an Anal Fistula?
Pain and Discomfort Around the Anus
One of the most frequently reported symptoms of an anal fistula is persistent pain or discomfort around the anus.The pain might be a dull ache, or it can be a sharp, stinging pain that gets worse during bowel movements, if you sit for extended periods, or even during physical activity.It’s also possible to feel a throbbing sensation, or the pain could intensify if the fistula becomes infected or inflamed.
Swelling or Redness Near the Anus
You might also see swelling or redness near the anus.This could indicate that the fistula is inflamed or infected.The area might also be sensitive to the touch and that swelling might be more noticeable after you’ve had a bowel movement or while sitting.
Frequent Anal Abscesses or Drainage
A telltale sign of an anal fistula is having recurrent anal abscesses.These are those painful, swollen lumps filled with pus that can appear near the anus. You might notice that the abscess just drains on its own, releasing a foul-smelling discharge.And this discharge is often a clear sign that the fistula is draining fluid or pus from the infected area.If the abscess doesn’t drain on its own, it can get a lot more painful and might even cause more serious complications, like cellulitis or a deeper infection.Drainage or pus is often one of the most obvious signs of an anal fistula.
Blood in Stool or on Toilet Paper
Not always but some people with anal fistulas may notice blood in their stool or on the toilet paper after wiping. This happens if the fistula is causing irritation or bleeding within the anal canal.The blood can be bright red, which means it’s coming from the lower part of the gastrointestinal tract. However, it’s important to remember that blood in your stool can be a sign of other things too, like hemorrhoids anal fissures or even other gastrointestinal issues.So, if you see blood it’s always a good idea to see a doctor and get a proper diagnosis.
Pain During Bowel Movements
Another frequent symptom is pain during bowel movements.The pain might be a sharp, burning sensation and it can linger even after you’re done with your bowel movement.This discomfort happens because the fistula is often located near the anus and well, passing stool can irritate that area.The pain can be amplified if the fistula is infected or inflamed.If you’re consistently experiencing painful bowel movements, that could signal a fistula or maybe hemorrhoids, or something else entirely.In that situation, seeking medical advice is a good idea.
Itching or Irritation Around the Anus
An anal fistula can also cause itching or irritation around the anus, which can be quite bothersome.The itching might be caused by the discharge from the fistula or maybe from the skin being irritated by constant moisture or infection.This itching is often persistent and scratching can make things worse, even leading to further irritation or an infection.If you’re experiencing this symptom try to avoid scratching and consult a healthcare professional to figure out what’s going on.
Foul-Smelling Discharge
A distinctive symptom of an anal fistula is the foul-smelling discharge that can come from the fistula.This discharge can indicate the fistula is infected or that the abscess it started from is still draining. The smell is usually unpleasant and you might notice it even if you don’t have any other symptoms.The discharge can vary in color, from clear fluid to yellow or green pus, depending on the infection’s severity.
Fatigue and Fever (If Infected)
In some instances, an anal fistula can become infected leading to more severe symptoms like fever and fatigue.These are signs that the infection has spread and immediate medical attention is needed.A fever is a clear indicator that your body is fighting an infection and when coupled with pain and drainage, it can mean the fistula has become abscessed. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s really important to seek medical care as soon as possible.
What to Do If You Suspect You Have an Anal Fistula?
If you’re experiencing any of the signs of an anal fistula that I’ve just mentioned it’s a good idea to seek medical attention for a proper diagnosis.An anal fistula can often be diagnosed through a physical examination and your doctor may also use additional tests like an anoscope ultrasound or MRI to get a clearer picture of the fistula’s size and location.
Treatment Options for Anal Fistulas
Once you’ve been diagnosed treatment options vary based on the fistula’s severity and type.Common treatment options include:
- Surgical drainage: If you have abscesses linked to a fistula, draining the abscess might be required.
- Fistulotomy: A common surgical procedure that involves cutting open the fistula to allow it to heal.
- Seton placement: This is where a seton (a piece of surgical thread) is placed through the fistula to help it drain and heal over time.
- Fibrin glue or collagen plugs: Non-surgical treatments that can be used to close the fistula.
Conclusion
Recognizing the signs of an anal fistula is super important so you can get timely medical care and avoid any complications. If you see any of the symptoms I discussed—pain, swelling, drainage, or blood—talk to a healthcare professional.While an anal fistula can be uncomfortable maybe even painful, it can be effectively managed with proper treatment and you can return to a healthier and more comfortable life.Always remember that getting help early on is key to preventing further complications and improving your overall well-being.
